Punta del Este in Three to Five Days
Three to five days is enough to see the peninsula and the coast on either side of it without rushing. This plan groups sights by direction, so each day stays within one stretch of the coast.
Getting there and around
Carrasco International Airport (MVD) in Montevideo is the year-round gateway. Punta del Este is about 130 km east. COT and Copsa (Línea Este) coaches run from Montevideo’s Tres Cruces terminal to the Punta del Este terminal about every 20 to 60 minutes, in roughly 2 hours 15 minutes. Laguna del Sauce airport (PDP) handles seasonal flights. On the ground, taxis cover single trips and a rental car gives the most freedom for the coast east and west. See the COT site for the coach schedule.
Day 1: the peninsula
Walk the port, the lighthouse and Avenida Gorlero, then spend the afternoon on Playa Mansa. Finish at the sheltered beach for the sunset. Swim at Playa Brava only inside a lifeguard zone.
Day 2: Punta Ballena
Casapueblo is about 13 km west of the peninsula. It is open every day from 10:00 until sunset, with admission of UYU 600. Arrive at least 40 minutes before sunset for the evening ceremony.
Day 3: La Barra and Manantiales
Cross the wavy La Barra bridge over the Arroyo Maldonado and continue to MACA on Ruta 104 at km 4.5. It is free and open Wednesday to Monday, 10:00 to 18:00. Plan around the Tuesday closure.
Day 4: José Ignacio and Garzón
José Ignacio has a lighthouse, beaches and restaurants such as La Huella. Head inland to the Laguna Garzón bridge and Bodega Garzón for lunch. Menus are UYU 3,900 or UYU 5,000 per person, with booking 24 hours ahead.
Day 5: boats or a rest day
If you have a fifth day, take a boat to Isla Gorriti, about 15 minutes from the port, or a boat trip to Isla de Lobos. The island is a protected area and visitors cannot land. Otherwise use the day for a beach and a slow lunch.
Season and safety
The most visitors arrive from about December to February, especially in early January. In the cooler months, check the hours of Museo Ralli, MACA and beach clubs, since some close or open on fewer days. The US State Department lists Uruguay at Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution) for crime, so check travel.state.gov before you go.
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