SOUTH AMERICA
See beyond salsa, sombreros and tequila, Latin America is a feast for the senses with something for every kind of traveler, whether it’s relaxing by the beautiful beaches of Brazil, trekking through the Amazon, admiring the Wondrous glaciers of the Antarctic region or dancing to the rhythms of the samba, salsa or tango.
If it's spectacular scenery you desire, witness the thunderous falls at Iguassu Falls; take a guided walk in the Amazon Rainforest; explore Bariloche, which boasts some of Argentina's most glorious scenery; and cruise through the Galápagos Islands as you watch for sea lions, iguanas, and many bird species.
If it's spectacular scenery you desire, witness the thunderous falls at Iguassu Falls; take a guided walk in the Amazon Rainforest; explore Bariloche, which boasts some of Argentina's most glorious scenery; and cruise through the Galápagos Islands as you watch for sea lions, iguanas, and many bird species.
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If you like any of the resorts below, click on button below to check price and availability.
You can contact us at 1-833-246-8728 or book direct through our site
You can contact us at 1-833-246-8728 or book direct through our site
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argentina
Argentina is a country of immense beauty and proportions. Its geographic diversity spans the most breathtaking terrain from Antarctica, through the wild, glacier-filled mountains of Patagonia and massive open plains of La Pampas to the deserts and tropical jungles in the north. The country can be enjoyed for its natural wonders alone, but no visit here could be called complete without a glimpse of its soul, the capital city. Elegant Buenos Aires is home to 40 percent of the population, and is a buzzing metropolis with a rich, passionate and tortured history that is integral to its character. It is Europe and Latin America contained in one geographical location, with elements of the unknown around each corner. It is familiar and strange at the same time, but at its very core, wonderfully welcoming. Along the avenues of the fashionable districts, sophisticated diners observe passers-by while they sip strong coffee or enjoy smooth cervezas. The constant smell of meat grilling from every corner and sidewalk reveals the Argentine passion for asado. Neither glamour nor passion is in short supply in this cosmopolitan hub where Porteños are equally versed in football, politics and fashion. There are disparities between the rich and poor, with many people living in near-slum conditions in the outskirts of Buenos Aires. Since 1992, the economy has teetered near collapse due to corruption and government mismanagement, prompting regular and sometimes violent demonstrations. However, it is business-as-usual as far as tourism is concerned; in fact, the resultant devaluation of the peso has made the country much more affordable for travellers. Climate in Argentina Argentina's elongated geography ensures that the country has a diverse climate. The north is subtropical with rain throughout the year and is best visited between May and September when the heat and humidity is less oppressive. The south has a sub-arctic climate and is best visited in the summer (December to February). The central area is temperate, but can be hot and humid during summer and cool in winter. Language: Spanish is the official language of Argentina but English is generally understood in the tourist areas. Passport/Visa: Valid passports are required for travel to Argentina. Visas are not generally required for stays of less than three months, with the possibility of an extension of stay. Visas are valid for several entries within the period of validity stated in the visa. It is recommended that all visitors have sufficient funds, as well as onward or return tickets and documents required for next destination. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Currency: The unit of currency is the Argentinean Peso (ARS). Currency can be exchanged at banks and cambios (bureaux de change) but it is easier to use ATMs, available in most towns, which reflect the current exchange rate. Major credit and debit cards are generally accepted, and US Dollars can be used in many tourist establishments. Electricity: Electrical current in Argentina is 220 volts, 50Hz. Most hotels and offices use the three-pin flat plug, however most older buildings use the two-pin round plug. A 10 percent tip is expected at restaurants in Argentina. Porters expect some small change per bag. Passport/Visa Note Valid passports are required for travel to Argentina. Visas are not generally required for stays of less than three months, with the possibility of an extension of stay. Visas are valid for several entries within the period of validity stated in the visa. It is recommended that all visitors have sufficient funds, as well as onward or return tickets and documents required for next destination. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Entry Requirements Entry requirements for Americans: US nationals require a passport for travel to Argentina, but no visa is required for stays of up to 90 days. Welcome Argentina Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Medical Practitioners US Embassy US State Department Resorts & Map
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boliva
Known as the 'Tibet of the Americas', Bolivia is the highest and most remote country in South America. The landlocked destination includes the East Andes Mountain Range and the Altiplano Highland Plateau, where most of its people live. Bolivia's history spans the ancient Aymara, who lived on Lake Titicaca, the Altiplano's Inca Empire and the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. Visitors can still see traces of these civilisations in the country's ruins, museums and colonial cities. Culture lovers should note that Bolivia has one of the continent's most concentrated indigenous populations who, for the most part, have retained their traditional way of life. Visitors will encounter authentic houses, age-old agricultural methods and ancient weaving techniques. Haunting panpipe melodies ride the Altiplano's crisp mountain air, while livelier tunes fire up the warmer lowlands. Thrill seekers will relish the country's dramatic geography. Explorers can track wildlife in the Amazonian Basin or drive the Salar de Uyuni's surreal landscape. They can also venture to the world's highest navigable lake, Titicaca, scramble through muddy shafts in the silver mines of Potosi and hike in the magnificent Andes. Climate in Bolivia Due to the altitude, Bolivia's climate is one of extremes, with warm days and cold, sometimes freezing nights. Rain is heavy over the summer months (November to March), and Bolivia can be become very humid (especially at lower altitudes). The climate varies drastically between regions, so weather should be checked for each destination. La Paz Airport Santa Cruz Viru Viru Airport The dry winter season (May to October) is the high season for tourism, and generally the best time to visit. That said, tourists should check the best time to visit for the particular region and activity they are planning, as the country has many different climatic zones. Language: Though Spanish is an official language, only 60 to 70 percent of the people actually speak it, often as a second language. Many indigenous languages, such as Quechua and Aymara, are also official. Passport/Visa: All visitors travelling by air should have return tickets and all required documents for their next destination, as well as sufficient funds to see them through their stay. All travellers arriving from yellow fever risk areas must show valid yellow fever vaccination certificates on entry to Bolivia. Those who qualify for visas on arrival need to carry all the required documentation translated into Spanish and should confirm these requirements in advance. Travellers who do not have the required fee, documents and photographs for a visa to be issued will be denied entry. Currency: The official currency is the Bolivian Boliviano (BOB), which is divided into 100 cents (centavos). Money can be exchanged at bureaux de change in the main centres, at banks and hotels - banks are generally considered the best places to exchange currency. Main centres accept USD, but travellers will need cash when they journey to more remote areas. Banking facilities are good in the main cities and ATMs cater for Visa and MasterCard. Major credit cards such as MasterCard, Dinersclub, Visa, and American Express are accepted in shops, restaurants and the bigger hotels. Electricity: 220-230 volts, and 50-60Hz. US flat-bladed, two-pin plugs and two-pin plugs with round grounding are used. Tipping in Bolivia A service charge is typically added to restaurant and hotel bills in Bolivia, but it is customary to add a five to 10 percent tip for good service over and above this charge. Porters at hotels expect small tips and drivers are only tipped if hired for a full day. Bolivia Tourism Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Medical Practitioners US Embassy US State Department Resorts & Map
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brazil
Brazilians exhibit a passion for life and exuberance of spirit that can only be a result of living in a country where it is always sunny, natural scenery abounds, and the party never stops. The long-lasting impression with which most visitors leave Brazil is of carefree, colourful people dancing and celebrating in the street parades at Carnival. Tourists descending on the country's exciting cities, such as hedonistic Rio de Janeiro, can enjoy five-star hotels, shopping malls, pristine beaches, sunny skies, and bustling nightlife. Visitors to Brazil can live the high life without having to confront the hundreds of shantytowns ( favelas) where the poorest of the poor eke out a living in the shadows of the skyscrapers. However, favela tours, meals, and overnight stays are becoming increasingly popular as tourists have begun to explore safer neighbourhoods for an authentic Brazilian experience. With booming mining, agricultural, and manufacturing sectors, Brazil has the highest GDP in Latin America and is expected to be one of the world's dominant economies by the middle of the century. Brazil also caters well for business tourism and is a favoured destination for conventions, congresses and expos, particularly the city of Sao Paulo, which is the country's largest city and the business capital of Brazil. Being so vast, larger than the continental United States, Brazil is home to a variety of cultures and topographies. From the Amazon and Pantanal rainforests, to the urban jungle of Sao Paulo. From the wide open spaces of the central plateau around Brasilia and world-famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, to the secluded mountain towns of Minas Gerais; every experience combined results in an exotic and exciting Latin American holiday destination where the common denominators are samba, sunshine, sultry smiles, and soccer. Climate in Brazil Brazil's weather is quite diverse as there are five different climatic regions: equatorial, tropical, semi-arid, highland tropical, and subtropical. Cities such as Sao Paulo and Brasilia, on the plateau, have a mild climate with temperatures averaging 66°F (19°C). Rio de Janeiro, Recife, Natal, and Salvador on the coast have warmer climates balanced by the Trade Winds. Rio, for example, has an average temperature of around 80°F (26°C), which will climb to over 100°F (38°C) during the summer months, between December and February. In the southern Brazilian cities of Porto Alegre and Curitiba, the subtropical climate is similar to parts of the US and Europe, with frosts occurring in the winter months, between July and August, when temperatures can fall below freezing. Summers are hot, however. Despite the popular image of the Amazon as a region of blistering heat, temperatures rarely rise above 90°F (32°C), and days are generally warm, wet, and humid. The region has two seasons: a rainy season (November to May) and a not-so-rainy season (June to October). Brasilia International Airport Rio de Janeiro International Airport Sao Paulo-Guarulhos International Londrina Airport Salvador International Airport Belem International Airport Belo Horizonte Airport Viracopos-Campinas International Airport Goiania Airport Iguassu Falls Airport Cuiaba Airport Curitiba Airport Florianopolis International Airport Fortaleza Airport João Pessoa Airport Maceio Airport Manaus Airport Greater Natal International Airport Porto Alegre Airport Porto Seguro Airport Recife Airport Sao Luis Airport Vitoria Airport Language: The spoken language in Brazil is Portuguese, however Spanish and English are also used in the cities. Passport/Visa: All visitors require passports that are valid for at least the period of intended stay in Brazil but we strongly recommend that passports be valid for six months after intended date of travel. Border control may well deny entry to holders of passports valid for the period of intended stay. Sufficient funds to cover their stay in Brazil, as well as a return or onward ticket and documentation required for further travel, are necessary for all travellers. Visa requirements vary from country to country. Currency: The Brazilian currency is the Real (BRL). The US Dollar is also welcome in most tourist establishments. In the main cities, foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks or cambios. There is an extensive network of ATMs in the country and most major international credit cards are accepted. Electricity: Brazil has a variety of electrical voltages, sometimes within the same city. The better hotels offer 220 volts, 60Hz. If not, transformers are available in electrical stores. Two-pin plugs with a grounding pin are standard. Tipping in Brazil Nearly all hotels add a service charge to the bill, usually 10 percent. Most restaurants also add 10 percent or more to the total of the bill, but must make it clear that they have done so; waiters appreciate another five percent if their service has been good. Otherwise, a 10 to 15 percent tip is customary. Brazilians don't normally tip taxi drivers, except if they handle bags, although they may round up the total. Hotel staff expect small tips and most other service personnel, including barbers, shoe shiners, and petrol station attendants, are usually rewarded with a 10 to 15 percent tip. Parking attendants earn no wages and expect a tip of around two real. Visit Brazil Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Medical Practitioners US Embassy US State Department Resorts & Map
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chile
WHERE THE IMPOSSIBLE IS POSSIBLE From the driest desert in the world up north to eternal glaciers and inverted waterfalls down south, Chile extends travelers an invitation that is hard to turn down. Learn about tourism in Chile, and you will be amazed by all of the experiences you can find at the southern tip of the world. Choose Chile. Where the impossible is possible. Space observation in the Atacama Desert, thousand-year-old glaciers in the far south, magical forests and lakes lying at the foot of extraordinary volcanoes. Islands full of legends, wine traditions, incredible challenges to take on, and the capital city of Santiago with its airs of modernity and accessibility. An extensive territory with wide horizons that will make you feel alive, get you in touch with nature and invite you to explore pristine lands. A true test of your senses, where its people and culture will offer a pleasant surprise with their friendliness and hospitality. A completely new experience where the whales can fly, the desert yields flowers, and you can enjoy the four seasons of the year in a single day. A place where the impossible is possible. The territory of Chile extends from the tropics down almost to Antarctica, and from sea level up to breath-taking altitudes, therefore the country has a wide variety of climate zones. In the north there is hardly any rainfall and conditions are very hot and arid. The climate in central Chile is Mediterranean, with cool, wet winters between April and September. Average annual rainfall increases, and temperatures decrease, as one moves further south. In Santiago average temperatures vary between 68ºF (20ºC) in January, the height of summer, and 46ºF (8ºC) in July, midwinter. In the extreme south the weather is cold and wet most of the year, with snow covering the mountains and the sky cloudy. Because the weather in Chile varies so much there is no ideal time to visit the country as a whole; depending on your desired area and activities the best time to visit Chile will change. However, in every season the country has something to offer which makes it a year-round travel destination. Language: The official language is Spanish. Passport/Visa: A return or onward ticket is required. We always recommend that passports be valid for six months after intended period of travel. Extension of stay possible for additional 90 days for visa exempt visitors. Currency: The local currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP), which is divided into 100 centavos. Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club and to a lesser extent, American Express, are accepted in most large shops and hotels. ATMs are widely available. Electricity: Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Round two-pin plugs and round three-pin plugs are used. Tipping in Chile Tips of about 10 percent are expected in restaurants. It is not customary to tip taxi drivers but it is usual to round up the fare if they help with luggage. In general tipping small amounts is customary for most services. Discover Chile Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Medical Practitioners US Embassy US State Department Resorts & Map
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ecuador
Despite being the smallest country in the Andean Highlands, Ecuador is one of the world's most bio-diverse destinations. Visitors will experience dramatic changes in altitude, scenery and temperature while journeying between Pacific Coast beaches, the sweltering rainforest, the ice-covered volcanoes surrounding Quito and the windswept highlands of the Andes Mountains. They will also encounter an astounding variety of birds, wildlife and vegetation in these contrasting climatic zones. What's more, Ecuador's geographic environment has influenced the cultures and traditions of its people. Two mountain chains and over 30 volcanoes make up the Andean highlands, the country's backbone. Between the two chains lies the central valley, the Avenue of Volcanoes, at about 8,960 feet (2,800m) above sea level. This valley, or sierra, is the heartland of cultural activity, punctuated by dozens of remote communities. It is also home to the bulk of the population. Larger towns like Saquisilí and Otavalo swell on market days, with villagers coming to sell their produce and handiwork in a vibrant, colourful, and festive atmosphere. Additionally, the sierra contains most of the old and historically important cities, including the aforementioned Quito. The country itself is beautiful, with colonial architecture, magnificent, panoramic scenery and a welcoming people blending together magnificently. One of the world's greatest treasures of natural history lies in the bewitching Galapagos Islands. Famed for its unique wildlife such as marine iguanas, giant tortoises, and colourful Sally Lightfoot crabs, the island chain is the highlight of any holiday in Ecuador. Climate in Ecuador Ecuador's geography has endowed the country with a variety of microclimates. The coast is hot all year, with a humid rainy season between December and May. In the mountains, climate depends on altitude, becoming cooler the higher travellers go. The Amazon region is hot, humid and wet, while the Galapagos Islands are dry with a steady year-round average temperature of 77ºF (25ºC). Language: Spanish is the official language, but many speak an Amerindian language called Quichua. Passport/Visa: Passports should be valid for at least six months beyond the date of arrival in Ecuador. All visitors should hold an onward or return ticket, and must demonstrate proof of sufficient funds for their stay in the country. Extensions are possible for travellers who do not need a visa to enter Ecuador. Those who are travelling to the Galapagos Islands need to register with the government prior to arrival on the following website: http://www.gobiernogalapagos.gob.ec/pre-registro-tct/. It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Currency: The US Dollar (USD) is the official currency in Ecuador. It is recommended that travellers bring US dollar notes as other foreign currencies are difficult to exchange outside of Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca. Small denominations in good condition are the easiest to exchange outside of the main cities. In the main centres, most currencies can be exchanged at banks and exchange houses (casas de cambio) at variable commission rates. ATMs are available in the cities, and major credit cards are accepted in tourist areas and large hotels, although a commission of six to eight percent is often charged. Electricity: Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Two-pin, flat prong plugs are standard. Tipping in Ecuador A 10 percent service charge is usually added to good quality hotel and restaurant bills, but often the waitron does not receive this fee, so it is discretionary to add another five to 10 percent as a tip. Taxi drivers do not expect to be tipped but tour guides usually do. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Medical Practitioners US Embassy US State Department Resorts & Map
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paraguay
Paraguay sits landlocked amongst South America's tourist favourites of Brazil, Argentina, and Bolivia, and is unfairly overlooked by visitors except for the most intrepid travellers and eco-tourists. Paraguay is unique in South America in that it largely resisted the cultural devastation wrought by the Spanish conquistadors and has therefore preserved the cultural dominance of its pre-Colombian Guarani people. Since becoming a republic in 1811 a series of dictatorships have marred its progress, but today Paraguay has a relatively peaceful democracy and is fairly prosperous thanks to its thriving agricultural economy. Those who fly into the capital, Asuncion, will find a large, relaxed city full of Latin American atmosphere and historical interest. The city's rich 450-year history is reflected in the downtown architecture, including the Asuncion Cathedral, as well as some modern marvels like the beautiful Lirico Theatre. In addition, Asuncion boasts a fun nightlife, vast shopping malls, and some excellent hotels and restaurants. Rivers are the lifeblood of Paraguay and a scenic cruise from Asuncion to Concepcion is a popular option for tourists. Concepcion is a laidback little town about 130 miles (210km) north of the capital, the most notable feature of which is the riverside setting. More adventurous travellers might make expeditions to the western Chaco region, where some fascinating German Mennonite communities can be found living alongside the indigenous Guarani people, and hundreds of species of flora and fauna flourish in the marshes. Paraguay is essentially a travel book still to be written. Although tourist amenities may be lacking outside of the capital, those keen on experiencing a South American destination off the beaten tourist track will find plenty of charm, unspoilt wilderness, and authentic indigenous culture in Paraguay, making it a rewarding and memorable destination. Climate in Paraguay Paraguay, situated on the Tropic of Capricorn, enjoys a hot subtropical climate, with long sultry summers (October to March) and an average annual temperature of about 75ºF (24ºC). The east of the country is more humid and wet, with only slight seasonal changes in temperature and rainfall throughout the year. The western Chaco region has a tropical wet-and-dry climate, almost semi-arid, with plenty of rainfall in the summer months but severe dry spells in winter. Generally, the best time to visit Paraguay is between March and October when it is cooler, as the peak summer months (December to February) can be uncomfortably hot and humid. Language: Both Spanish and indigenous Guarani are official languages. English is not widely spoken or understood. Passport/Visa: Those requiring visas must apply to the nearest Paraguayan consulate. It is recommended that travellers always have six months' validity on their passports as immigration officials may impose restrictions other than those officially stated. Vaccinations against yellow fever are required for passengers arriving within six days of leaving or transiting infected areas. Currency: The currency of Paraguay is the Paraguayan guarani (PYG). United States Dollars are also widely accepted. Visitors are advised to use banks or official Bureaux de Change for exchanging money rather than street exchange kiosks because there are many counterfeit notes in circulation. Credit cards are becoming more widely accepted with larger hotels and restaurants accepting MasterCard, Visa, and, in some cases, American Express. There are numerous ATMs in urban centres, which generally take Cirrus, Maestro, and Visa cards, but visitors who use them are advised to be vigilant due to the risk of crime. Banks are open on weekdays only between about 8.45am and 3pm. Electricity: Electrical current is 220 volts, 50 Hz. European-style plugs with two round pins are standard. Tipping in Paraguay Some restaurants do add service charges but this will be indicated on the bill. If no service charge has been added, a tip of about 10 percent is appropriate. For porters and other services, small change is acceptable. Taxi drivers appreciate visitors rounding up the fare. Resorts & Map
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peru
Peru is a large country on the Pacific coast of South America, encompassing a desert coastline, tropical rainforest, and soaring mountains, each with distinct environments. These dramatic landscapes offer an exceptional opportunity for travellers to experience a variety of adventures, an abundance of wildlife, a rich history and archaeological heritage, and the vivacious character of durable native cultures, all within one nation. Fishing villages, fine beaches, agricultural lands, and Peru's major towns and cities, including the capital of Lima, are interspersed along the narrow belt of desert coastline that stretches the length of the country. The lush Amazon Basin takes up half of Peru and is an ecologically rich area of tropical rainforest that encompasses some of the world's most remote and least explored areas, sparsely populated and for the most part, inaccessible. Separating the coastal desert from the jungle is the splendid Andes mountain range, an endless chain of soaring peaks over 22,000 feet (7,000m) high, and home to millions of indigenous highland people, speaking the ancient Inca language of Quechua, and living in traditional villages with steeply terraced agricultural fields, with their wandering herds of llamas and alpacas. An interesting history of ancient civilisations, tales of lost cities, undiscovered treasures, and unsolved mysteries make Peru one of the most exciting countries in the world. Travellers can marvel at the sophistication of pre-Colombian cultures and explore the many legacies left by the Inca Empire, particularly the ancient Inca capital of Cuzco. Hiking along the legendary royal Inca highway brings visitors to the awesome, majestic 'Lost City of the Incas', Machu Picchu. Boats transport tourists to the unique floating islands and the traditional world of the island people on Lake Titicaca. Travellers can wander around splendid colonial cities that have preserved their Spanish architecture, look into the depths of the world's deepest canyon, and contemplate the intriguing mystery of the Nazca Lines. Peru, 'Land of the Incas', offers a stimulating and rewarding travel experience and is one of the most diverse and exhilarating of the South American destinations. Climate in Peru Peru has three climate zones, one of which governs the coastal region. Its desert landscape is caused by the cold Humboldt Current, which prevents cloud formation over the land. Lima is generally sunny and humid, with next to no rainfall, though it experiences heavy sea mists from April to November. The northern coast has hot, sunny summers, with occasional rain showers. The coast gets less arid farther north, as the effect of the Humboldt Current decreases. The Andes region is cool, and its wet season runs from October to April. Its dry season lasts from May to September. During the dry season, days in the highlands are clear and sunny, though nights become very cold - especially at altitude. The forested region of the Amazon Basin has an equatorial climate, where conditions involve hot weather and frequent rain throughout the year. The peak tourist season runs from May to October, particularly in July and August. Winter (June to September) is the best time to walk the Inca Trail, given the wonderful visibility travellers can expect during the clear, sunny days. This is also a good time to visit the jungle basin, as there are fewer mosquitoes. Language: Spanish is the official language. In areas where they are predominant, Quechua, Aymara and other aboriginal languages also have official status. English is spoken only in major tourist centres and hotels. Passport/Visa: All travellers require passports, return or onward tickets, all documents required for onward travel and proof of funds. If travelling for business purposes, a visa is required. Visas cannot be obtained on arrival. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the visitor's intended date of departure from the travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Currency: The official currency is Sol (PEN), divided into 100 céntimos. Visa is the most widely accepted credit card, but all major international credit cards are accepted in many, but not all, establishments. Outside of big cities, facilities may be more limited. US Dollars are the easiest currency to exchange and plenty of restaurants, hotels, and shops in the main cities accept dollars for payment. Casas de cambio (exchange bureaux) often give better rates than hotels and banks and can be found in any town on the tourist circuit. ATMs are available in the main cities. Electricity: Electrical current is 220 volts, 60Hz. Two-pronged plugs with flat blades as well as plugs with two round prongs are in use. Peru Travel Resorts & Map
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urUguay
Being one of South America's smallest countries, the Republic of Uruguay is largely overshadowed on the tourism map by its more popular neighbours, Brazil and Argentina. That said, this largely flat destination of rolling plains and hilly meadows is every bit as enticing to sun chasers. Visitors can expect fine sandy beaches, an atmospheric capital (Montevideo) and some of the world's cheapest and most delectable steaks. The cobbled old town of Colonia del Sacramento adds another dimension to the country's charm. Flowering jasmine is a city-wide feature in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors should also venture to Uruguay's cattle ranches, where rugged gauchos (cowboys) labour on the open plains. By contrast, travellers seeking action should head to the upscale international beach resort of Punta del Este. Otherwise, Uruguay is politically stable and has one of the lowest crime rates in South America. Its welcoming people and sultry summer sunshine make it a definite bucket-list candidate. Uruguay enjoys a subtropical climate. Temperatures can soar during the summer months (December to February), particularly along the Rio de la Plata, which separates the country from Argentina. The interior and Atlantic coast are slightly cooler. Strong winds and rainstorms can occur between late April and November. Language: The official language is Spanish. Passport/Visa: All visitors to Uruguay must hold an onward or return ticket and documents for their next destination. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Currency: The official currency of Uruguay is the Uruguayan Peso (UYU), but some tourist businesses, retailers and taxi drivers also accept US Dollars. The peso is divided into 100 centésimos. Currency can be exchanged at banks and Money Exchange Shops, which offer similar exchange rates. It is important to always keep some change. Exchange rates tend to fluctuate frequently. There are plenty of ATMs available in shopping centres and attached to banks in commercial areas, but not all cards are accepted. Credit cards, including Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted by shops and restaurants. Electricity: Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. There are various types of plugs in use, including ‘Schuko’ plugs and receptacles with side grounding contacts, and the plugs commonly used in Australia. Tipping in Uruguay Tipping is discretionary in Uruguay, but a gratuity of between five percent and 10 percent of the bill is usually offered in restaurants. Rounding up the bill is sufficient for taxi drivers, and hotel porters receive about US$1 per bag. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Medical Practitioners US Embassy US State Department Resorts & Map
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*Disclaimer - All pictures and resort information are provided by the resort directly. Destination information provided by each Country's Tourist Board and South America Tourism. Tours are provided by Viator. Travel Pros is not responsible for any incorrect information that may be listed or operations of supplier.