Mercedes Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and naturally beautiful city of Mercedes in Uruguay with this comprehensive guide that covers everything from attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink, lodging, culture, safety, transportation and more.


Introduction to Mercedes

Mercedes is a charming, small city located in the Rio de la Plata region of Uruguay. It’s popular for its rich history and stunning natural surroundings. With a population of around 42,000 people, Mercedes is a great destination for those who want to experience the authentic Uruguayan lifestyle.

List of Places to Visit in Mercedes

Whether you’re a history buff, an adventurer, or just looking for a relaxing vacation, Mercedes has something for everyone. Here are some places that you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes: a beautiful 19th-century Catholic church that is considered the centerpiece of the city.

  • Casa del General Flores: a historic house museum that belonged to General Fructuoso Rivera, one of Uruguay’s most prominent historical figures.

  • Museo de la Tradición: a museum that showcases the Uruguayan gaucho lifestyle with exhibits that feature traditional clothing, tools, and more.

Natural Attractions of Mercedes: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Reserva Natural Ecológica de San Francisco: a nature reserve that includes 162 hectares of land near the Uruguay River. The reserve boasts beautiful walking trails, birdwatching options, and breathtaking views of the river.

  • Sierra de Mahoma: a small mountain range where visitors can go hiking, mountain biking, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mercedes

Mercedes offers some great opportunities for hikers and bikers alike. Here are some of the most scenic routes:

  • Camino de los Indios: a 10-kilometer route that runs along the Uruguay River. It offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscapes.

  • Sierra de Mahoma Trail: a 7-kilometer circular trail that goes through the Sierra de Mahoma mountain range. It’s a great route for both hiking and mountain biking.

Best Things to Do in Mercedes: Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tasting Tour: Mercedes is known for its wineries, and a wine tasting tour is a must-do for any wine lover.

  • Horseback Riding Tour: Visitors can explore the countryside on horseback with local guides who offer tours of varying lengths.

  • Boat Tour: A great way to appreciate the city’s river views is by taking a riverboat tour and exploring the Uruguay River from a unique perspective.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mercedes

Day 1: Visit the historic center of Mercedes, including the Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes and Casa del General Flores.

Day 2: Explore the Reserva Natural Ecológica de San Francisco.

Day 3: Hire a guide and go horseback riding through the countryside.

Day 4: Check out the Museo de la Tradición and experience the Uruguayan gaucho culture.

Day 5: Go for a hike or bike ride in the Sierra de Mahoma mountain range.

Day 6: Take a wine tasting tour and sample some of the city’s locally produced wine.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the beautiful river views of the Uruguay River.

Food and Drink Scene of Mercedes

Mercedes is known for its traditional Uruguayan cuisine, which is heavily influenced by its Spanish and Italian heritage. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Asado: a traditional South American barbecue that features various cuts of meat cooked over an open fire.

  • Chivito: a hearty sandwich that typically includes steak, ham, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise.

  • Empanadas: Similar to a pasty, empanadas are baked or fried pastries stuffed with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Tannat: a full-bodied red wine that is produced locally in the city’s wineries.

  • Mate: a popular traditional drink made by steeping dried leaves of yerba mate in hot water.

  • Uvita: a mild, fruity white wine made from the Muscat grape variety.

Where to Stay in Mercedes: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mercedes offers a wide variety of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the most highly recommended options:

  • Posada del Bosque: a charming guesthouse located in a forested area on the outskirts of the city.

  • Hotel Cristóbal Colón: this historic hotel dates back to the early 1900s and features classic decor and modern amenities.

  • La Cantera Lodge de la Costa: a beautiful lodge that’s located on the shores of the Uruguay River. It offers stunning river views and a range of outdoor activities.

What to Buy in Mercedes: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handcrafted Leather Goods: Mercedes has a rich heritage of gaucho culture, and as such, has plenty of high-quality leather products on offer.

  • Wine: The city’s wineries produce some excellent wines, and these make for a great souvenir to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Mercedes

Mercedes is a welcoming city, and visitors are expected to be polite, friendly and respectful. Dining out is generally a social activity in Uruguay, so once the meal is finished, it’s common to continue conversations over a cup of coffee or tea.

Best Time to Visit Mercedes

The best time to visit Mercedes is during the months of November through March when temperatures are mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. It’s important to note that as with many other South American countries, the peak of summer (December through February, is also peak tourism season, so it may be crowded and more expensive during this time of year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mercedes

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including the wine produced in the city’s wineries.

  • Be friendly and respectful when interacting with local people.

  • Take the time to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

Don’t:

  • Overstay your visa or violate local laws.

  • Wear revealing clothing in religious or conservative areas.

  • Disrespect local customs or traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mercedes

Mercedes is a safe city. However, visitors should take common-sense precautions such as keeping valuable items safe and secure, avoiding unlit areas after dark, and staying aware of their surroundings while out and about.

Health in Mercedes

Travelers to Mercedes should ensure they are up-to-date on routine vaccinations and should speak to their healthcare provider about any other recommended treatments. It’s important to note that summertime in Uruguay can get quite warm, and visitors should take measures such as staying hydrated and wearing sunscreen and light clothing.

Getting to Mercedes: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can reach Mercedes by plane, bus or car. Here are some of the most common ways of getting there:

Airports Near Mercedes

  • Carrasco International Airport: Uruguay’s main international airport located in Montevideo, approximately a 72km drive from Mercedes.

Bus Stations Near Mercedes

  • Terminal Ciudad de Mercedes: the main bus terminal in the city center that receives routes from surrounding cities, including Montevideo.

Other Options

  • Rent a car: Visitors can rent a car to explore the surrounding attractions and landscapes independently.

How to Get Around in Mercedes

Mercedes is a small city, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. Visitors can also hire a taxi or rent a bike to explore the area at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Mercedes: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Colonia del Sacramento: A Unesco World Heritage site with beautiful colonial architecture and stunning river views, located approximately 145km away from Mercedes.

  • Montevideo: Uruguay’s capital city, which offers an excellent museum scene and vibrant nightlife, is approximately 180km away from Mercedes.

Conclusion

Mercedes is a city in Uruguay that offers visitors the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its well-preserved colonial architecture, rich wines, and beautiful landscapes, there’s always something exciting to explore. Follow this comprehensive travel guide to discover all the hidden gems that Mercedes has to offer.