Day trip to Uruguay

Just a ferry ride away
Noteworthy for: The Afro-Uruguayan population still practice candombe – traditional music and dance – ceremonies throughout the year.
Word to the wise: Buquebus and Seacat Colonia offer fast-ferry services to Uruguayan destinations departing Puerto Madero’s Buquebus terminal. Colonia Express offers a cheaper, if slower, option.
Just a boat ride from Buenos Aires, Uruguay boasts the positive attributes of both neighbours Argentina and Brazil, with fantastic parrillas, sandy beaches and a thriving carnival culture.
Easiest to reach is the charming Colonia del Sacramento. Start at the Museau Municipal – your ticket (UYU 10) also grants entry to five other historical buildings showcasing the village's turbulent history. Hire a pushbike to check out the crumbling Plaza del Toros (bullring) north of town, and climb the lighthouse to watch a spectacular sunset over the Rio de la Plata.

Further afield (2.5hr ferry from Buenos Aires or 3hr bus from Colonia) Montevideo’s historic architecture has seen better days, but there is an allure in the Uruguayan capital’s tumbledown beauty. Head to the art nouveau Mercado de la Abundancia (San Jose 1312) for the arts and crafts market, then feast at the lively parrillas on the top level. If you’re lucky you’ll catch one of the milongas at the Joventango dance hall in one corner of the building.

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