Uruguay for Families

Uruguay remains relatively unknown as a vacation destination. But with its laid-back charm, colonial towns, rolling countryside, estancias and fashionable beach scene, it is South America's best kept secret, and a relaxed, safe and ideal destination for families.

1. Fly to Buenos Aires

2. Days 1-4: Buenos Aires

   Begin by flying to Buenos Aires, Argentina's vibrant capital city. There is lots for the whole family, from taking in a Boca Juniors soccer game and shopping till you drop, to learning some tango steps and dining out at fabulous steak restaurants. We’ve included a fun city tour by bike, a great way for little (or big!) legs to cover more ground and explore Buenos Aires’ vibrant neighborhoods

   Accommodation: Palacio Duhau - Park Hyatt Buenos Aires (3 nights)

3. Days 4-7: Carmelo

   From Buenos Aires, Uruguay is only a stone's throw away. Take a fast catamaran across the River Plate to Colonia, a pocket of tranquility in contrast to the buzz of Buenos Aires. Wander through this pretty former Portuguese riverside town and UNESCO world heritage site, with its winding cobblestone alleyways and colonial houses. From Colonia, you'll be driven to the Carmelo resort & Spa for an indulgent 3-night stay. Here you'll find slick service, top notch golf, great horse riding, a fabulous spa and a huge outdoor pool, all on the white sand banks of the Rio de la Plata.

   Accommodation: Carmelo Resort & Spa, the Unbound Collection by Hyatt (3 nights)

4. Days 7-12: Jose Ignacio

   From Carmelo head across pretty countryside, stopping off in Montevideo, where you’ll enjoy a privately guided tour of the historic city before enjoying a delicious lunch in the famous port market. Continue to the ultra-luxury Estancia Vik. Designed by Marcelo Daglio, this estancia really has a wow-factor, and is a great family property. Each suite has been decorated by a different Uruguayan artist and incorporates state-of-the-art technology. It has a huge outdoor pool where you can relax, unwind and take in the incredible vistas. With 4,000 acres of private land, its own polo fields and criollo horses, there's no better place to take a polo lesson or go horse riding gaucho-style. You can also take long walks, go biking, play tennis or simply relax poolside.

   Jose Ignacio, often likened to St Tropez or the Hamptons, is just up the road, and is where the local glitterati hang out and cool beach bars abound. Surf, sail, explore the amazing sand dunes of Cabo Polonio with their sea lion colonies.

   Accommodation: Estancia Vik (5 nights)

5. Fly home

   Private transfer to Punta del Este airport where you’ll connect with your international flight home.

Buenos Aires, Carmelo & Jose Ignacio