Destinations
After the optional start in Buenos Aires – this itinerary hugs the southern coastline of Uruguay with an emphasis on enjoying good wine, exploring the historical centres of some of the southern towns and cities and then experiencing the boho chic beaches at Jose Ignacio for your last few nights.
Enjoy a private transfer on arrival in Buenos Aires to Mio for a 2 night stay, followed by a short walking tour on arrival to familiarise yourselves with your local neighbourhood. Mio is a trendy choice in a fantastic location, but there are plenty of other options if preferred. You have a a whole day at leisure in the city. Enjoy a dinner and tango show in the evening (has to be done!).
Take the fast ferry across the river to Uruguay (1 hr). You will be met on arrival at Colonia's port and transferred to your hotel for the night. Enjoy a half day tour of Colonia's cobbled streets with mate tasting. Colonia is regarded as one of Latin America's best preserved colonial towns. Charco is a charming boutique hotel with eight rooms in the heart of Uruguay's UNESCO World Heritage site, Colonia del Sacramento. Charco Hotel is made up of lovingly converted original 1680 Portuguese houses which form the rooms, suites and restaurant.
Having taken delivery of your rental vehicle this morning you will make your way to Carmelo for a two night stay.
Whilst here you can enjoy two wine-tasting tours at wineries in the Carmelo region: Bodega Cordano and Bodega El Legado - both family owned businesses. On one of the days you can experience an asado lunch (a typical Uruguayan bbq).
Today you will continue on to Montevideo and meet up with a local guide for a walking tour of the Old City as well as visit two museums and. spot of lunch in the Port Market. for the next 2 nights you will be staying at the Alma Histórica Boutique Hotel, a restored 1920s townhouse turned elegant bed and breakfast, where individually designed rooms pay homage to legendary native artists, writers, athletes and musicians. The Belle Epoque elegance of Montevideo’s Old Town is easily explored from the hotel’s Plaza Zabala setting, or you can gaze down on it from the rooftop hot tub with a glass of Garzón-region tannat wine in your hand.
Enjoy a tour of modern Montevideo with its wide and tree-lined streets and impressive architecture. Plus you will have a chance to learn about the secret world of the Uruguayan drums (!) with a visit to the studio of Lobo Nunez.
Head to Sacromonte. Enjoy a welcome wine-tasting on top of the hill, overloking the hills of the 'Sierras de Caracoles'. The Sacromonte Landscape Hotel is a modern retreat for wine lovers. It was designed to disappear into its rugged surroundings thanks to its mirrored façade, which helps the rectangular structures blend into the surrounding landscape, keeping the focus on the rustic scenery. You won't have stayed anywhere like this before!
On day two, you will be collected to go on a tour of the Olive Oil plantations in the nearby area. More wine-tasting to come later as you explore with a specialised guide this region which is known as 'Uruguayan Tuscany'.
Drive on to Uruguay's boho-chic Jose Ignacio today, where you will be staying for your last 3 nights at Bahia Vik. The relaxed beachfront property of Bahia VIk offers one-of-a-kind art-filled suites and standalone bungalows, four infinity pools and a beach club bar/restaurant for catch-of-the-day, cocktails and incredible sunset views. It’s eco-friendly too. A great place to end your self drive. . This afternoon meet up with a local guide for a half day tour to show you around Punta del Este, one of South America's most glamorous resorts.
Drive back to Montevideo airport where you will drop off the vehicle in good time to check in for your flight home. Or take the ferry back to Buenos Aires to catch your flight from Ezeiza airport.
Having a good, quality vehicle is key to every self-drive journey. We work carefully with our local team to source you the best vehicle available for your self-drive journey.
All our itineraries are tailor made, but here are some of our favourite routes and camp combinations.
Simply, because we care. Whether you have travelled in Africa with Safari Drive or whether this is your first journey with us, we will be working hard behind the scenes to support your trip and ensure sure you have a fantastic self drive adventure.
Your entire holiday is designed around your requirements. We will create the perfect trip, at your own pace, to your budget.
All our team in Latin America live in-country and have travelled extensively. Their knowledge and input is key to a successful self-drive safari.
We don’t mark up for our services, we only take commissions from the suppliers we use. Tailor-made does not have to mean expensive.
All our holidays are 100% financially protected.
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