Uruguay

Types of trips: Adventure, Education, Historical, Relaxtion, Geographical, Wildlife

Best known for: Beaches, Mate Tea, Gauchos, Peace/Democracy

Why Go?: As one of the smallest South American countries, Uruguay's unique charms have often gone overlooked. It's the safest and most progressive country of the continent, and is modern without being flashy. Still upholding ancient traditions but moving forward culturally and technologically, this will be a fantastic destination for both educational and relaxation purposes!

Fact File

Population: 3,500,000

Capital: Montevideo

Language(s): Spanish

Ties to the UK?: Good relationship, increasingly popular travel destination

Landscape: Mostly made up of plains and small hill ranges, with a low and fertile coastal area. 

Climate/Seasons: The warmest time is around December - January and the coolest around July, with fairly evenly spread rainfall throughout the year and no real extreme hot or cold temperatures.

When to Go: The beaches are best in the summer period (December/January) but the temperatures can get quite high - the inland hilly region is a bit cooler. 

Reasons to Visit: Cultural experiences, History, Wildlife/Geography education

How to Get There: There are a good number of international airports in the country that you can travel to. 

Places to Go: Casa Rivera, Mercado del Puerto, Casapueblo, Pocitos

Famous People: Jose Mujica, China Zorrilla, Gabe Saporta, Jorge Majfud

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Laguna del Sauce, Isla de Lobos, Rio Negro

History: Periods of Portuguese and Spanish control until Uruguay gained independence in the early 1800's after struggles with Spain, Prtugal, Argentina and Brazil - now the most peaceful and democratic Latin American country

Architecture: Plaza Independencia, Palacio Salvo, Mano de Punta del Este, Estevez Palace

Culture: Strongly influences by Southern European settlers, with many similarities to Argentinean culture. 

Sport: Football, Rugby, Cricket

Events: Las Llamadas Mardi Gras Carnival and Parade, Festival of the Gaucho Culture, Day of the Dead

Watch Out For: Some busy areas of the capital city Montevideo hold a risk for some street crime - be aware of pickpockets and the like and keep valuables safe. Carrying a photocopy of your passport is advised. 

Medical Issues: There are some vaccines and boosters advised for travelling to Uruguay - check out this page for a general overview, and always talk to a doctor.