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Argentina is currently one of the most popular destinations in South America, but many travelers completely overlook another nearby country when planning their trip.
Uruguay is a small country bordering Argentina and Brazil. It is located across the Río de la Plata from Buenos Aires, just an hour and 15 minutes by ferry.
And yet this is one of the most overlooked countries in South America, receiving fewer than half the tourists annually than Argentina or Brazil.
But Uruguay is definitely worth a visit, as I recently learned on a trip to this underrated destination.
Here’s why you should consider adding Uruguay to your South American itinerary:
1. It is easy to visit
One of the most obvious reasons to visit Uruguay? It’s easy! Many travelers don’t realize how close Uruguay is to the popular tourist destination of Buenos Aires, Argentina.
There are two modern, fast ferry companies that operate numerous crossings between Argentina and Uruguay every day: Buquebus and Colonia Express.
You can travel from Buenos Aires to Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay, in just one hour and 15 minutes, or to the capital Montevideo in two hours and 45 minutes.
If you are already planning a trip to popular countries in South America such as Argentina and Brazil, you can easily plan a visit to Uruguay as well.
2. Colonial history
One of the best places to visit in Uruguay is Colonia del Sacramento. This charming, romantic town dates back to colonial times and is filled with picturesque squares and tree-lined cobblestone streets.
This colonial city is a must-see destination in Uruguay, but more colonial history and architecture can also be found in Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, two and a half hours away from Colonia del Sacramento by car or bus.
Ciudad Vieja in Montevideo is the oldest part of the city, with a lot of colonial history.
3. A vibrant capital
Speaking of Ciudad Vieja, it’s one of the best parts of Montevideo to explore. You’ll find cobblestone streets, vintage shops, beautiful bookstores and historic churches.
Other neighborhoods worth seeing in Montevide are the lively Parque Rodó and Barrio Sur.
Montevideo is the perfect place to buy your own mate kit, including a cup, metal straw and dried yerba plant. Mate (pronounced mah-tay) is a traditional hot drink that is extremely popular in Uruguay, and you will see people strolling the streets when it is cold outside.
4. The Riviera of South America
Besides Colonia del Sacramento and Montevideo, Punta del Este is another one of the best destinations to visit in Uruguay.
Located about two hours east of Montevideo by car or bus, Punta del Este has earned the nickname “The Riviera of South America.”
This Pacific Ocean city is known as a chic beach destination for Uruguayans and other South American travelers. If you visit Uruguay during the summer (December to March), don’t miss this beachside destination.
Punta del Este is also known as the safest destination in Uruguay.
5. Safest country in South America
Although Punta del Este is the safest destination in Uruguay, that doesn’t mean the rest of the country is dangerous. Far from it!
Uruguay is actually the safest country in all of South America and is one of the top 50 safest countries in the world according to the Global Peace Index. It is also the country with the lowest poverty rate in South America and the least corruption.
Furthermore, Uruguay prides itself on being the most progressive country in South America, especially when it comes to the LGBTQ community, making it a safe and welcoming destination.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
