Self-drive Uruguay

Duration
12 nights
Price from
£2,410 pp.
Location
Uruguay, South America
Cabo Polonio landscape

Trip Highlights

  • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage town of Colonia
  • Visit small, boutique wineries
  • Get off the beaten track in Cabo Polonio

What's Included

  • 12 nights accommodation
  • Transfers as mentioned and car hire
  • Excursions, guides and activities where specified

Explore Uruguay at your own pace

Experience the best of Uruguay on an unforgettable self-drive adventure, where charm, culture, and breathtaking landscapes await.

Start your journey in Montevideo, the vibrant capital, brimming with history, lively markets, and beach-lined promenades. Explore the old town, stroll along La Rambla, and enjoy the buzzing cafes of Ciudad Vieja.

Next, drive along the scenic coastline to Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This cobblestone town, with its blend of Spanish and Portuguese architecture, invites you to step back in time as you wander through its atmospheric streets.

A short drive will bring you to Bodega el Legado, nestled in the heart of Uruguay’s wine country near Carmelo. Enjoy a tour of the vineyard, learn about the winemaking process, and indulge in a wine tasting session that showcase the region’s finest varieties.

For a taste of authentic rural life, visit Estancia El Balcon del Abra, an idyllic ranch where you can experience Uruguay's countryside up close. Horseback riding, traditional barbecue, and serene views make this a truly immersive stop.

Continue your journey to Cabo Polonio, a remote coastal village only accessible by special 4x4 vehicles, where sandy dunes, untamed nature, and a historic lighthouse await you. After a night in this tranquil haven, head to the stylish village of José Ignacio, a chic beach town known for its laid-back luxury and great restaurants. A perfect end to your adventure.


Trip Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Montevideo

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.

Day 2 Montevideo

Montevideo Canva

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.

Day 3 Montevideo - Colonia del Sacramento

Day 4 Colonia del Sacramento

Day 5 Colonia - Carmelo Winelands

Day 6 Carmelo - Winery visits

Day 7 Carmelo - Estancia - El Balcon del Abra

Day 8 Estancia activities

Day 9 Mariscala - Cabo Polonio

Day 10 Cabo Polonio - Jose Ignacio

Day 11 & 12 Jose Ignacio

Day 13 Jose Ignacio - Montevideo

Speak to a Uruguay expert today

and start planning your tailor-made holiday

Call 0203 111 1315
or
Amanda swuare

Amanda

Uruguay Expert

When to go to Uruguay

A month-by-month guide of when to visit Uruguay

  • Best
  • Good
  • Mixed
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

January

Peak Season - Summer is in full swing with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The coastal areas, including Punta del Este, are bustling with beachgoers. It's the best time for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying vibrant Carnival celebrations, with colorful parades and music filling the streets.

February

Peak Season - The weather remains perfect for beach lovers and partygoers. Montevideo's Carnival, one of the world's largest, comes alive with elaborate parades, costumes, and a vibrant atmosphere. The coastal towns, like Punta del Este, continue to draw visitors with their lively beach scenes.

March

Shoulder Season - While still warm, March sees fewer crowds. It's an ideal time to explore Uruguay's wineries and countryside tranquility. Enjoy wine tasting and leisurely drives through the beautiful landscapes.

April

Shoulder Season - As summer comes to an end, temperatures begin to cool. April is a quieter time to visit. Explore the historic charm of Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage site, without the summer crowds.

May

Low Season - May brings cooler temperatures, making it perfect for leisurely exploration. Experience local life in small towns and the countryside. It's a time to connect with Uruguay's culture and heritage without the tourist rush.

June

Low Season - Winter begins, and temperatures drop. While the beaches are less appealing, you can explore the cultural side of Uruguay. Visit museums, warm up with a cup of mate, and partake in various indoor cultural events.

July

Low Season - Winter continues, providing an excellent opportunity to explore Uruguay's inland beauty. Go horseback riding, experience the gaucho culture, and enjoy the serene countryside without the tourist crowds.

August

Low Season - August is perfect for birdwatching and wildlife tours in Uruguay's natural reserves. It's a unique opportunity to witness the country's diverse wildlife in a peaceful and less crowded setting.

September

Shoulder Season - Spring blossoms in Uruguay. With pleasant weather, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. Explore national parks, hike, and witness the vibrant displays of wildflowers.

October

Shoulder Season - The beauty of October lies in its mild weather. The countryside comes alive with colorful blossoms, making it an excellent time for outdoor adventures, historical exploration, and wine tasting.

November

Shoulder Season - November is the time to visit beaches before the summer crowds return. Enjoy the coastal areas and historic sites with pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists.

December

Peak Season - Summer returns with warm temperatures and bustling beaches. December is perfect for beachgoers and festive holiday celebrations. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and celebrations that mark the end of the year.

Shirley Newman

What can I say….my son and myself had the most wonderful time in Kenya thanks to the first-class itinerary that Ben and Louise put together for us. We spoke with Ben many times to ensure he ‘got it right’. This was our 2nd visit to Kenya, and it certainly lived up to our expectations and memories. We stayed in four locations, firstly at the wonderful El Karama Lodge, Laikipia Wildlife Conservancy, where we even had a visit from Ruth from Far and Wild! Then, for a return visit, to Saruni Samburu, which is absolutely stunning and still one of our favourite places in the world. Next came Basecamp Mara Camp, where we saw our first Cheetah, the only animal we didn’t see on our first visit. After that, onto the wonderful Leopards Hill in the Naiboisho Conservancy, what a way to spend the last four days of this trip. Here we finally spent many hours with a beautiful leopard. Throughout our time in Kenya, we saw many lions, giraffes, elephants, ostriches, hyenas, cheetahs, and leopards, to name just a few. Nothing was too much trouble for all the staff; we cannot have been looked after any better. Since our return again Ben phoned to see how it went in addition to emails. I would highly recommend Far and Wild; they are so knowledgeable and have personally visited the lodges and areas. We are already planning another visit, and we cannot wait.

16 Aug 2025
Elizabeth Spells

I have just returned from the most amazing trip to Tanzania, booked with Far & Wild. Everything went so smoothly from the first time I spoke with them. The planning was great, the itinerary was perfect for us, and the lodges were amazing. We spent 10 nights with an amazing guide, travelling through Northern Tanzania and even got to see the migration, which was a lifetime ambition of mine. This wasn't our first safari, so we were nervous as to how it would compare, but it was spot on. We're particularly grateful that she suggested a private 'bush lunch' in the Ngorongoro Crater as the public picnic spot was very busy! I will certainly be using them again to book our next trip....we're thinking of a relaxing beach stay next time to get over the excitement of safari!

17 Sept 2025
Orla Rhodes

Just back from another amazing F&W organised trip to Namibia with the family (8 adults). Having been there before, Alistair tailored our trip to include our favourite locations and added a new one for us, Okonjima Plains camp, which we loved.The quality of accommodation and guiding, activities, food and drinks was exceptional throughout. Although not inexpensive I felt it was good value for the level of luxury we had. Kwessi Dunes, Shipwreck lodge, Ongava, Okonjima with pit stops Windhoek (city tour recommended ), Swakopmund (Sandwich Harbour and Walvis Bay tour) and Grootberg lodge (best sundowner drive )

31 Jul 2024
Arnhild Schia

We had a wonderful trip to São Tomé and Príncipe - a small island nation in the Gulf of Guinea with paradise (almost empty) beaches and jungle forest. It was all well organised by Far and Wild and we stayed at Omali lodge at Sao Tome, then on Roca Sundy, and Sunday Praia at Principe - a great combination of different types of resorts/hotels. Omali is close to Sao Tome town with its colonial buildings, markets, hustle and bustle. Roca Sunday gives an old plantation experience and Sundy Praia a luxury beach experience. Very friendly (from time to time a bit slow) service, great fresh food, specifically if you like fish/seafood, vegetables and fruits (almost all sourced locally). Nice temperature between 23 and 30 degrees Celsius, nice swimming conditions. We really recommend this for those who want to experience a pristine destination with few other tourists and friendly and welcoming people. The islands also feel (and I believe are) very safe. At Principe, there are no dangerous animals, snakes or whatever, and it was great to be able to hike in the jungle without being very conscious of where to put your hands and feet. Go before everyone else does!

3 Jul 2024
Henri Papenfus

Back home again, basking in the joys of a superb safari. Every aspect you arranged for us, including linking up with Mack Air and Wild Horizons locally to transport us. The choice of camps, Camp Hwange in Zimbabwe and Muchenenje Safari Lodge in Botswana, was spot on and exactly what we had hoped for - ideally situated, comfortable, in good surroundings, and with excellent wildlife on the doorstep and throughout the wider country. The service staff in each looked after us very well, catering was excellent, and the game guides were professional, knowledgeable and helpful. The weather was, as usual for that part of the world, also good at the time of our visit. Blue skies and stunning sunsets. Warm but not too hot during the day, although quite cold at sunrise when viewing game. The viewing started. You made us happy, and we recommend you to similar safari enthusiasts with confidence.

28 Jun 2024
AC

Far and Wild went above and beyond to make sure my trip to Zambia was special. I would definitely recommend them and their services to anyone wanting to travel to Africa.

5 Jun 2024
Tiny

Lovely holiday at the amazing Almanara on Galu beach, a beach like no other. Far and Wild excelled themselves from beginning to end of our holiday in beautiful Kenya.... What a country!,

5 Jun 2024
Stodge

Wow! These guys are amazing. Can’t recommend them highly enough. Friendly AND efficient! Sorted out our trip (last minute and lots of different family member needs, sorry!) in record time and everything worked like clockwork. Trip of a lifetime to the Masai Mara. Will be back (and use F&W again!)!

5 Jun 2024
Fiona C

It was a dreamy holiday on the Kenyan Coast - Far and Wild, their efficiency and professionalism allowed us to relax and be the happiest family alive !! We cannot fault them, their care and understanding of what we wanted from a holiday ensured we had the most memorable trip. We will be booking with them again for sure!

5 Jun 2024

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