Uruguay Overview

History of Uruguay

The Portuguese were the first Europeans to set foot in Uruguay, and soon enough, the country contended between the Portuguese and Spanish Empires. During the Napoleonic Wars, Montevideo was finally occupied by a British force from February to September 1807. In 1811, José Gervasio Artigas started a revolt against the Spanish authorities and managed to defeat them on May 18 at the Battle of Las Piedras, becoming a national hero.

The newly formed nations of Brazil and Argentina continued battling for control of the region. In 1828 Uruguay was proclaimed as an independent state through the Treaty of Montevideo, fostered by the United Kingdom. Uruguay’s Independence Day was set for August 25 and is a national holiday. The nation’s first constitution was then adopted on July 18, 1830.

Post-Independence Uruguay History

From Independence till 1904, Uruguay’s political scene was determined by constant military conflicts and civil wars between the Blanco and Colorado Parties. In the 1950s, economic instability caused student militancy and labor unrest, which rose during the following decades.

In 1968 president Jorge Pacheco declared a state of emergency, followed by a further suspension of civil liberties in 1972. The establishment of a 12 years civilian-military regime started the next year. This involved intense political repression and a state of terror with many casualties.

National elections held in 1984 declared Colorado Party leader Julio María Sanguinetti the new president of Uruguay. Sanguinetti served from 1985 to 1990 and made a significant change to the country’s political scene. More importantly, he implemented economic reforms and consolidated democracy. Since then, Uruguay has been a democratic republic.

Geography of Uruguay

The Uruguayan landscape features broad valleys, plains, low plateau, and hills. Mount Catedral represents its highest point, which rises to 1,685 feet (514 meters) near the southeastern coast. The country boasts a 660 km (410 mi) fertile coastline, which is often embellished with sand dunes and beautiful tidal lakes.

Trees grow mainly in narrow stretches along watercourses making the country forested only in a small percentage. In addition to several lagoons located along the Atlantic coast, Uruguay has four main river basins (deltas): the Río de la Plata Basin, the Uruguay River, the Laguna Merín, and the essential internal river: Río Negro.

Uruguay has ten national parks, of which five are in the east’s wetland areas, three in the central hill country, and one in the west along with the Rio Uruguay.

Uruguay Wildlife

Large mammals are rare within Uruguay; however, 105 recorded mammal species in the country include fox, deer, otter, rodents, and other smaller species. There are still some jaguars and pumas, but mostly in the remote areas. Travelers may also spot reptiles, serpents, and other wild animals.

Uruguay is also home to a significant amount of coastal wildlife. A prevalent fish is a croaker, which is often fished. Dolphins and whales live in the waters of Cabo Polonio National Park in addition to three endangered species of sea turtles and three kinds of penguins. The coast also provides resting areas during the migration period of Seals.

Uruguay is currently implementing a National System of Protected Areas (SNAP) to promote conservation and protect the country’s natural landscapes and beauty.

Tourism in Uruguay

Tourism in Uruguay is a meaningful part of its economy. 60% of tourists come from Argentina, 14% from Brazil and the remainder from North America, Europe and the rest of the world. For a cultural experience, you cannot miss the charming colonial towns you find by journeying up Rio de la Plata.

Colonia del Sacramento Tours

Colonia del Sacramento is a beautiful example of colonial and historical heritage and attracts all those tourists which love authenticity, quaint towns, and cobblestone streets. You can enjoy some of the most spectacular sunsets and romantic strolls along the harbor and the many green and flowered alleys from the town.

Montevideo

Montevideo is excellent for those who don’t particularly love big cities. In fact, despite being the country’s capital, the city is very laid-back and tranquil. Montevideo is a culturally vibrant city. It offers a great variety of cultural activities and houses some important historical monuments such as the Torres Garcia Museum and Estadio Centenario. Estadio Centenario is where the first World Cup in history was played.

Punta del Este

Punta del Este is the place to go for those looking for a more upscale and resort stay. This is also the most popular holiday destination for rich and famous Argentines and Brazilians during the summer season. The period between mid-December till the end of February is generally quite busy.

Punta del Este is located on a peninsula and has beaches on both the river (Mansa side) and the ocean (Brava side). There are plenty of things to do in Punta del Este. The river waters are tamer and suited for sunbathing, snorkeling, and other recreational activities. The ocean side is perfect for adventurous activities like surfing.

Some low key clients prefer the quieter areas of La Barra and José Ignacio, which are further east from Punta del Este and generally have simpler accommodation and services.

For full immersion in nature, Uruguay has a wide choice of ranches to do various activities such as horseback riding and treks. Accommodation tends to be more humble but still good enough to guarantee a comfortable stay with a private room and bathroom and a lovely traditional breakfast.

Cabo Polonio National Park

Cabo Polonio National Park is becoming more and more popular for tourists who love rustic stay, isolated from the noisy city life. The park is home to a tiny fishing village nestled in sand dunes, and in addition to nice beaches, it hosts Uruguay’s second-largest colony of sea-lion and small rustic houses, and a precious lighthouse.