Self-drive Uruguay

Arrive in Uruguay by flight or ferry and be greeted by a Far & Wild representative for a private transfer to the heart of Montevideo’s historic area, Ciudad Vieja. This atmospheric district blends colonial charm with modern culture, where cobbled streets lead to museums, artisan shops, and lively cafés. Settle into Alma Histórica, a boutique hotel brimming with character, perfectly placed for discovering the city’s rich past and dynamic present. Stroll along the waterfront, soak up local life, and experience Montevideo’s unique fusion of old and new.

Join your expert local guide for a captivating walking tour through Montevideo’s Old Town, where history and culture come to life. Wander along cobbled streets lined with grand 19th- and 20th-century architecture, uncovering the city’s rich heritage.

Visit iconic landmarks, including Plaza Independencia, the elegant Solis Theatre, and the bustling Mercado del Puerto, famed for its delicious local cuisine. Step inside the stunning Taranco Palace for a glimpse into Uruguay’s aristocratic past. After the tour, relax at a charming café or stroll along Montevideo’s scenic beachfront.

Your hire car will be delivered to your hotel, ready for a scenic journey through Uruguay’s open roads. Leaving Montevideo behind, head west towards Colonia del Sacramento, where the traffic thins, and the scenery shifts to rolling countryside and peaceful farmland. Arriving in this UNESCO-listed gem, wander through cobbled streets lined with colourful facades and soak in breathtaking views over the Río de la Plata. Stay at the charming Posada Plaza Mayor, perfectly nestled in the heart of town, where history, culture, and laid-back charm blend effortlessly.

Colonia is a delightful town to explore on foot, where every corner reveals a rich combination of Portuguese and Spanish influences. Wander through pretty streets lined with colourful buildings and ancient stone walls. Visit iconic sights like the historic lighthouse, the charming Plaza Mayor, and the awe-inspiring remnants of the old city wall. For a change of pace, take your car for a short drive to Las Liebres, a cosy country hotel perfect for a relaxed lunch amidst scenic surroundings.

Drive to Carmelo, stopping at the Jesuit Ruins of Calera de las Huerfanas, an intriguing archaeological site that once housed a thriving estancia. Continue through Uruguay’s scenic heartland to the charming, family-run Bodega el Lagado, a boutique winery where you can unwind with a wine tasting, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.

Today, leave your car at Bodega El Legado and join your expert local guide for an unforgettable wine experience in Uruguay’s renowned wine country. Begin at Narbona Wine Lodge, where you'll savour exquisite local Tannat wines paired with fresh, regional delicacies in a rustic yet elegant setting. Next, head to Bodega Cordano, a family-driven winery celebrated for its warmth and passion. Here, enjoy intimate tastings of unique wines complemented by a fantastic selection of artisanal delicatessen.

Leave the coast behind and journey inland to your peaceful estancia near the quaint town of Mariscala. Drive along winding roads, meandering through rolling hills, lush countryside, and picturesque rural villages. As you veer off the main road onto dirt tracks leading to El Balcón del Abra, prepare for a serene retreat immersed in nature and local culture. Spend the next few days reconnecting with the land, embracing the tranquility, and unwinding in the idyllic surroundings.

At the estancia, outdoor adventure awaits. Begin your day with a scenic hike or a horseback ride through the nearby mountains. You can also try canoeing, mountain biking, or birdwatching in the stunning surroundings. After an active morning, retreat to the natural pool to relax with a good book, basking in the warm sun. Sip on a glass of local wine and enjoy the atmosphere of the estancia.

Drive to the gateway of the remote coastal village of Cabo Polonio, a stunning spot on Uruguay’s Atlantic coast. With no roads leading in, journey by 4x4 through rolling sand dunes to this off-grid paradise. Stroll along unspoiled beaches, visit the iconic lighthouse, and watch sea lions basking on the rocks. As night falls, enjoy fresh seafood at your small coastal hotel, La Perla. On a clear night, the sky blazes with stars—an unforgettable escape into nature’s tranquility and beauty

Leave the remote beauty of Cabo Polonio behind and drive south towards the chic beach town of José Ignacio. Along the way, perhaps stop in Rocha for a taste of local life or detour to Laguna Garzón, where a unique circular bridge offers stunning views. Arriving in José Ignacio and the charming Anastasio Hotel & Beach Club. Discover its laid-back sophistication, golden beaches, and renowned seafood restaurants, an idyllic blend of nature and luxury.

In José Ignacio, free time is best spent embracing the town’s effortless charm. Enjoy pristine beaches, where golden sands meet the Atlantic’s rolling waves, perfect for sunbathing or surfing. Wander through the village’s stylish boutiques and cafés, or enjoy a leisurely lunch overlooking the ocean. Art lovers can visit MACA (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Atchugarry), a stunning gallery set amid sculpted gardens, showcasing contemporary Latin American art. As the sun sets, unwind with a cocktail at a beachfront bar, soaking in the relaxed elegance of this coastal haven.

Depart José Ignacio and drive along Uruguay’s scenic coast towards Montevideo. Stop in Punta del Este to visit La Mano, the famous finger sculpture emerging from the sand. Continue to Casa Pueblo, an iconic, white-washed masterpiece by artist Carlos Páez Vilaró, offering stunning ocean views. As the journey continues, pass charming seaside towns before reaching Montevideo for your departure flight.