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Colonia: Uruguay’s Historic Port
Colonia del Sacramento was founded by the Portuguese in 1680 on the northern bank of the Rio de la Plata. Its strategic position—directly opposite Buenos Aires—sparked over a century of territorial disputes between Spain and Portugal. Although its origins are martial, present-day Colonia exudes peace and tranquility—flowers cover the fallen city walls, elderly gentlemen snooze on park benches, and bicycles navigate the cobblestone streets. Sidewalk cafes, charming hotels, and antique cars join, to complete this delightful picture.
Colonia’s historic quarter was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1995, in recognition of its Portuguese, Spanish, and post-colonial architectural styles.
What to do in Colonia
Colonia invites unhurried exploration. Guests can wander the cobbled lanes of the historic quarter, pausing to admire 17th-century landmarks such as the lighthouse, the ruins of the San Francisco Convent, and the Iglesia Matriz—the oldest church in Uruguay.
The town’s seven small museums offer curated glimpses into indigenous history, colonial cartography, and daily life in centuries past. Along the way, sidewalk cafés, antique shops, and vintage cars add charm to the slow rhythm of daily life. Outside the town center, travelers headed toward Carmelo can visit the ivy-covered ruins of the Real de San Carlos bullring, now a picturesque remnant of Uruguay’s brief flirtation with the sport.
What is the Weather Like?
Due to its location on a peninsula extending into the Río de la Plata, Colonia del Sacramento has a humid and partly cloudy weather year-round. The summers (December to March) are warm and humid with an average high of 82°F and low of 67°F. February is the rainiest month of the year. Winters are cold and windy, with average temperatures between 47°F and 62°F. Spring and Autumn are pleasant, with highs in the 70s.
These averages are changing, please check extended weather forecasts using your favorite weather app prior to departure.
Getting There
Colonia is easily reached from Buenos Aires via a one-hour high-speed ferry across the Rio de la Plata. From Montevideo, the scenic drive west along Highway 1 takes approximately two hours. Carmelo lies just over an hour to the northwest.
Start your journey today
LANDED delivers the finest in custom, private travel to Central America, South America, and Antarctica. These regions are our passion; we know them first-hand and by heart. Speak with one of our travel designers and let us create a tailored itinerary for you in Colonia.
How to combine Colonia
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