Uruguay: Where Art, Wine, and Nature Converge

Arrive in Montevideo (MDV) or  Punta del Este (PDP), where you will take a taxi to your hotel. Airport transfers are not included, but we’ll happily arrange a private transfer for you. Just book your transfer in the add-on section.

Once in José Ignacio, check in at the Bahia Vik, a beautiful private ranch in the rolling countryside of José Ignacio, Uruguay. The resort spans 4,000 acres, a lovely blend of art, nature, and high design, bordered by the Arroyo riverbed and Laguna José Ignacio, which meets the Southern Atlantic Ocean.

After checking in, unpacking, and touring the facilities, we’ll meet in the lobby around 5:00 pm for your welcome cocktail and to meet-and-greet your fellow travelers. 

Enjoy a delicious dinner at La Susana, the hotel’s beachside restaurant, with its stunning ocean view and delectable menu featuring local flavors and fresh ingredients.

Start the day with a delicious breakfast before taking a private tour of Punta del Este and the charming surrounding villages. Begin with a visit to the breathtaking Casapueblo, a striking white-washed masterpiece perched on the hillside overlooking the Atlantic. It was designed by the renowned Uruguayan artist Carlos Páez Vilaró. Stroll through its labyrinth of terraces, galleries, and courtyards, taking in the stunning coastal views. Continue to Punta del Este’s main attractions, which include golden beaches and a bustling marina and port, where a lively colony of sea lions often gathers. Wander through the elegant streets lined with boutiques and cafés, soaking in this famed resort town's relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. 

For lunch, you’ll enjoy a delightful meal at Narbona in La Barra, a renowned spot that offers an exceptional culinary experience.

We'll return to the hotel for a rest after lunch, with the option to book spa appointments or relax on the beach, soaking in the tranquil surroundings. 

Prepare for a special evening at Parador la Huella, a renowned restaurant that blends exceptional cuisine with breathtaking views. As the evening winds down, return to the hotel to reflect on today’s memorable adventures.

It's an early morning as we begin the day with breakfast boxes in hand to set off on an expert-guided expedition to one of the world’s most fascinating bird-watching destinations. Wander through serene lagoons and expansive marshes, home to an incredible array of migratory and native bird species, including the striking Chilean flamingo, the elegant black-necked swan, the graceful roseate spoonbill, and many others. This peaceful, awe-inspiring experience should ignite your senses and fuel your creative spirit.

After our bird-watching adventure, we’ll board a boat to navigate the stunning Laguna Garzon, making our way to Laguna Anastacia. Here, we’ll indulge in a leisurely lunch at the charming Refugio Anastasio, enjoying the region's freshest flavors.

The afternoon is yours to unwind, relax, or enjoy a peaceful nap to recharge for the evening ahead.

As the day melts into evening, we’ll embark on a short transfer to Ta Khut Skyspace by James Turrell, where you’ll be captivated by the ethereal beauty of his Skyspace installation. As the sky changes color, the light-filled experience promises to take you on a serene and extraordinary journey. 

After a day filled with wildlife and artistic wonders, we’ll return to the hotel, ready to rest and recharge for the exciting adventures ahead. 

After breakfast, we’ll check out of the hotel and set off on an artistic adventure. Our journey begins as we head toward our new hotel, dropping our bags and getting ready for a day of immersion in Uruguay’s vibrant art scene.

We’ll start by meeting Pablo Atchugarry, one of Uruguay’s most renowned artists and the founder of the Atchugarry Foundation in 2007. His vision of making art accessible to everyone has played a pivotal role in promoting Uruguay’s artistic heritage.

Pablo will guide us through his studio, offering insight into his creative process and the inspiration behind his incredible works. Afterward, we’ll visit the studios of other local artists whose works beautifully reflect the contemporary Uruguayan spirit.

We’ll enjoy a picnic at MACA, immersed in the natural beauty, before visiting the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Atchugarry for a private tour. Next, we’ll explore the Atchugarry Foundation, where art and nature blend seamlessly. You’ll have the chance to purchase a piece of Uruguay's vibrant creativity. In the afternoon, we’ll check in at Estancia Vik, a peaceful haven where art and tranquility meet. 

After a day of inspiration, we’ll enjoy a family-style dinner at the hotel, savoring traditional Uruguayan dishes. 

After breakfast, you can choose to begin your day with a kayaking adventure, gliding across the tranquil waters and soaking in the beautiful landscapes.

If you want to explore more, set off mid-morning for the charming town of Garzón. Wander its picturesque main square, visit its quaint chapel and historic train station, and participate in a traditional mate tasting—an essential Uruguayan ritual. Then, continue to the renowned Garzón Winery, perched atop a rocky outcrop with breathtaking views of rolling vineyards. Enjoy a private guided tour to learn how the region’s mineral-rich, well-drained soils create exceptional wines. A tasting of their finest selections follows, along with a leisurely lunch showcasing the region’s exquisite flavors. You'll find this optional adventure in our Add On section, so go ahead and book. 

Alternatively, you may spend the day enjoying activities like kayaking, horseback riding, or unwinding at the pool. 

Later, regroup for a delightful evening in José Ignacio. Stroll through the village before indulging in a farm-to-table dinner at Cruz del Sur, a charming spot across from the town square, steps from the lighthouse and stunning beaches. The area boasts incredible dining thanks to renowned chef Francis Mallmann’s influence, but tonight’s setting offers a particularly intimate and memorable experience.

Start the day at your own pace, embracing the tranquility of the surroundings and enjoying well-deserved relaxation.

Later, we’ll then head to Chiringuito, a charming beach restaurant where the ocean breeze and stunning views provide the perfect backdrop for a delicious, laid-back lunch. Enjoy fresh seafood, locally-inspired dishes, and refreshing drinks, all while soaking in the beauty of Uruguay’s coastline.

Later, we’ll set off on a unique culinary journey in the heart of the countryside. Gather around a crackling fire as we dive into the art of traditional Uruguayan cooking. With iron pots, parillas, and griddles, you’ll learn to prepare a meal using the rich coal and wood flavors. The main course will be yours to create, featuring organic vegetables, fresh fish, and Uruguay’s renowned red meats. This hands-on experience will immerse you in Uruguay’s culinary techniques, providing an unforgettable evening, surrounded by the warmth of fire and great company.

A night of food, fire, and lasting memories awaits.

As we gather for one last unforgettable breakfast, let’s savor the flavors and moments that have made this journey so special. If you need a transfer to Montevideo (MDV) or Punta del Este (PDP) airport, we’re happy to arrange it—just book it in the add-on section.

If you're not joining us on the Montevideo to Buenos Aires extension, we bid you a fond farewell. Here’s to the incredible memories we’ve made and the friendships that last a lifetime! And for those continuing on, the adventure is far from over!

If you're joining us on the extension trip, the adventure unfolds in vibrant Montevideo. After a scenic drive, dive into the city’s rich history with a tour, visiting Plaza Independencia, 18 de Julio Avenue, Plaza Fabini, and the Palacio Legislativo. Explore the "Ciudad Abierta" area, with its green parks, Estadio Centenario, the Carriage Monument, and the elegance of Carrasco.

We’ll stop for lunch at the Port Market, a lively and historic spot in Montevideo’s Ciudad Vieja. Known for its sizzling parrillas, the market is the perfect place to savor Uruguay’s famous asado and other local specialties. 

After lunch, we’ll check into the Hotel Montevideo, a comfortable property that blends modern amenities and local charm. Relax and unwind before the next part of the adventure.

Before dinner, visit  Fernando "Lobo" Núñez’s studio, where you’ll learn about the roots of Uruguay’s Carnival and its connection to the Candombe tradition. Fernando will share stories from his rich cultural heritage, offering insight into Uruguay’s history.

In the evening, enjoy a memorable experience at the home of Manuel Filgueira, an enologist and owner of the boutique winery “Los Nadies.” Taste his exquisite wines and indulge in a delicious dinner with Manuel and his family, enjoying local flavors and lively conversation.

After breakfast and check-out from the hotel, we’ll set off for a day tour of Colonia del Sacramento, a charming UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and rich history. As we wander through this picturesque town, you’ll feel its blend of Portuguese and Spanish influences in the colonial architecture and quaint plazas against stunning river views. We’ll explore local artisan shops, visit historic landmarks, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at Las Liebres.

In the afternoon, we’ll board the ferry to Buenos Aires, crossing the Río de la Plata on a scenic journey of about an hour and fifteen minutes. Upon arrival, we’ll check into the elegant Boutique Hotel Jardines Escondido, an intimate and beautifully designed property providing a peaceful retreat in the city's heart.

Experience the essence of tango at the Rojo Tango Dinner Show, Argentina's most acclaimed performance, hosted in the Faena Hotel’s intimate cabaret-style space. This sensual show takes you through the history of tango, from its origins in the 1920s to the nuevo tango era of Astor Piazzolla, blending elements of jazz and modern electro-tango. Performed by the city’s best dancers, with talented singers and a live orchestra, you’ll be swept away by the passion and rhythm of Argentina’s iconic danll while enjoying a delicious dinner as part of the experience. 

We’ll begin the day in Buenos Aires’ northern district at the renowned MALBA, where you’ll explore an exceptional Latin American art collection featuring Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera masterpieces. Next, we’ll visit El Ateneo Grand Splendid, a beautiful bookstore housed in a former theater with stunning architecture and ornate balconies.

We'll then head south to the heart of Buenos Aires, where you'll see the iconic balcony where Eva Peron once addressed the nation, surrounded by impressive architecture and the city's vibrant energy. From there, we'll explore the historic streets of San Telmo, known for its charming cobblestone lanes, antique shops, and lively street performers. Finally, we'll visit the colorful neighborhood of La Boca, where the famous Caminito Street bursts with vibrant murals, tango dancers, and local artisan stalls.

Enjoy crispy, golden empanadas for lunch, one of the city’s finest dishes. Afterward, we’ll explore local artisan shops, including a renowned leather store known for its expertly crafted pieces.

In the afternoon, wander through Mercado San Telmo, a lively market filled with antiques, local crafts, and street performers, providing a taste of authentic Buenos Aires.

The day ends with an intimate dinner at a local home, where you’ll savor authentic Argentine dishes paired with excellent regional wines, sharing conversation and the warm hospitality of Buenos Aires.

Today, we say goodbye to new friends and unforgettable experiences—it’s been an incredible journey! After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye. Depending on your flight time, take a taxi to the airport—the hotel can assist with arrangements.