Punta del Este at a Glance

Labeled the ‘St Tropez of South America’, Uruguay upmarket seaside resort is a tranquil paradise. Discover some of Uruguay’s artistic cultural heritage, savour the unique Tannat wine and relax on the sun-soaked beaches.

 Where to stay in Punta del Este

Budget:

Tas D Viaje Hostel Surf Camp – ~$15 USD pp

Mid-range:

Petit Chateau Hotel Boutique – ~$90 USD (2 pax)

Splurge:

Il Belvedere – ~$215 USD (2 pax)

 When is the best time to visit Punta del Este

The summer season, December – February, brings glorious sunshine but is overrun with holidaymakers and prices skyrocket.

Aim to visit between October – December to enjoy the summer weather but with emptier beaches.

 What to do in Punta del Este

 Casapueblo 

The home of Uruguayan artist Carlos Páez Vilaró, this beautiful whitewash building is an important cultural monument in Uruguay. Nowadays, there is a museum, art gallery, cafeteria, workshop and even hotel, all on-site. A guided tour of the city will include entry to the house and the chance to see the sunset over the Atlantic ocean from one of the staggered terraces.

La Mano de Punta del Este (The Hand) 

A sculpture piece by Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal, La Mano can be found on Playa Brava and is today one of Uruguay’s most well-known landmarks. Irarrázabal created the piece in 1982 for the First Annual International Meeting of Modern Sculpture in the Open Air in Punta del Este intended as a warning to swimmers as it depicts a man drowning in the rough waters of La Barra.

Wine

This region of South America is home to the Tannat grape, which supposedly produces the healthiest red wine in the world due to the presence of the unique polyphenols in the seed! Take a guided tour of the wineries here to sample Uruguay’s finest selection.

Beaches

Take some R and R time from the adventure and soak up the sun on one of the many beautiful beaches. Top picks include Playa Mansa and Playa Brava.

 The Keteka difference

Keteka grants access to authentic activities run by local tour operators and guides. You can book and secure your place in advance, and we will take care of everything else. We’ll let you know where to go or where you will be picked up and at what time.

 How to get to Punta del Este

Land

The Punta del Este peninsula is located about two hours away from Montevideo by car. Buses also leave regularly for around 220 pesos (~$6 USD).

Sea

Ferry services bring passengers to and from Buenos Aires in neighbouring Argentina. The journey is fairly long at around 7 hours and goes via Colonia (~$75 USD for an adult foot passenger).