Introduction
Uruguay is a small country in South America, nestled between Argentina and Brazil. Despite its small size, Uruguay has plenty of hidden gems that are worth exploring. From beautiful beaches to charming historic towns, Uruguay has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore 10 hidden gems in Uruguay that are often overlooked by tourists.
Cabo Polonio
Cabo Polonio is a small village located on the eastern coast of Uruguay, in the Rocha department. It is a unique and secluded place, accessible only by foot or on a 4×4 vehicle. Cabo Polonio is surrounded by sand dunes and a beautiful beach that is home to sea lions and other wildlife.
One of the main attractions in Cabo Polonio is its lighthouse, which was built in 1881 and stands at 44 meters tall. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.
The village itself is made up of rustic houses, many of which have been built from driftwood and other materials found on the beach. There are no paved roads or streetlights in Cabo Polonio, which adds to the village’s unique charm. Visitors can explore the village on foot and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, or take a guided tour to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
Cabo Polonio is also home to a diverse ecosystem, including sand dunes, forests, and a lagoon. The area is a protected natural reserve and is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, seals, dolphins, and a wide range of bird species. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the local flora and fauna, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
One of the most popular activities in Cabo Polonio is surfing. The village offers several surf breaks, including Playa Norte and Playa Sur. Visitors can rent surfboards or take a surf lesson to try their hand at riding the waves.
In addition to surfing, Cabo Polonio offers a range of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, sandboarding, and kayaking. Visitors can explore the sand dunes on horseback, or take a kayak tour of the lagoon.
Colonia Del Sacramento
Colonia del Sacramento is a historic town located on the western bank of the Río de la Plata. The town was founded by the Portuguese in the 17th century and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the cobbled streets and colonial buildings, including the Basilica del Santísimo Sacramento and the Portuguese Museum. The town also offers great views of the river and is a popular spot for watching the sunset.
Punta del Diablo
Punta del Diablo is a small fishing village located on the eastern coast of Uruguay. The village has a bohemian atmosphere and is known for its beautiful beaches and surfing spots. Visitors can explore the village’s art galleries and handicraft markets, or take a dip in the ocean. The village is also home to the Santa Teresa National Park, which offers hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Salto Del Penitente
Salto del Penitente is a waterfall located in the Lavalleja department of Uruguay. The waterfall is surrounded by a beautiful natural landscape and is a popular spot for hiking and camping. Visitors can swim in the pool below the waterfall, or take a guided tour to explore the surrounding area.
Punta Del Este
Punta del Este is a popular beach resort located on the southern coast of Uruguay. The resort offers beautiful beaches, luxury hotels, and a vibrant nightlife. Visitors can explore the town’s marina and yacht club, or take a stroll along the famous La Brava Beach. The town is also home to the iconic sculpture “Los Dedos”, which is a popular photo spot for tourists.
Laguna Garzón
Laguna Garzón is a lagoon located on the eastern coast of Uruguay. The lagoon is surrounded by a unique ecosystem and is home to a variety of bird species. Visitors can explore the lagoon on a kayak or paddleboard, or take a guided tour to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
San Gregorio De Polanco
San Gregorio de Polanco is a small town located in the Tacuarembó department of Uruguay. The town is known for its colorful murals, which have been painted on the walls of its buildings. Visitors can explore the town on foot and admire the murals, or take a guided tour to learn more about the town’s history and culture.
Piriápolis
Piriápolis is a beach town located on the eastern coast of Uruguay. The town offers beautiful beaches, historic buildings, and a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can explore the town’s landmarks, including the Castillo de Piria and the San Antonio Hill, or take a dip in the ocean. The town is also home to the Piriápolis Nature Reserve, which offers hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding landscape
Sierra De Rocha
The Sierra de Rocha is a mountain range located in the Rocha department of Uruguay. The area is known for its beautiful landscapes and is a popular spot for hiking and camping. Visitors can explore the mountain range on foot and enjoy the scenic views, or take a guided tour to learn more about the local flora and fauna. The area is also home to a number of waterfalls and natural pools, which offer a refreshing escape from the summer heat.
Quebrada De Los Cuervos
Quebrada de los Cuervos is a natural reserve located in the Treinta y Tres department of Uruguay. The reserve is known for its beautiful canyons and waterfalls, and is a popular spot for hiking and bird watching. Visitors can explore the reserve on foot and enjoy the scenic views, or take a guided tour to learn more about the local ecosystem. The reserve is also home to a number of camping sites and picnic areas, making it a great destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Conclusion
Uruguay may be a small country, but it has plenty of hidden gems that are worth exploring. From the beautiful beaches of Punta del Este and Punta del Diablo to the historic town of Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an outdoor adventure, Uruguay has it all. So if you are planning a trip to South America, make sure to include Uruguay on your itinerary and discover these 10 hidden gems for yourself.
