Colonia Port is the most significant port of Uruguay in terms of number of passengers and amount of trade. Millions of people pass through the port annually as it serves as a major route to and from Argentina’s capital city of Buenos Aires. Visit this point of entry to the historical city of Colonia del Sacramento, a major destination for travellers in South America.
Enjoy seafood at one of the port’s restaurants. Admire the changing hues of the sky as the sun sets below the horizon. The largest island in the region, San Gabriel, is just west of the port. Take a boat to the island to explore it on foot.
Many impressive yachts are lined up along the docks of the port. Walk along the slips after dinner to study the boats and perhaps imagine yourself sailing away on one. Take photos of your favourite craft. The port has a capacity for 160 boats in total and is usually full.
Honda Beach is located next to the boat terminal. Sunbathe on the warm sand or take a dip in the refreshing water. It is one of the most popular beaches on the southern coast, although you can find many more beaches on the western side of Colonia del Sacramento.
The site was an important smuggling port when European settlers arrived in Uruguay. As such, the sovereignty of the area changed hands many times between the Spanish and Portuguese.
Colonia Port is on the southwest coast of Uruguay on the shores of the Río de la Plata. Take a ferry directly from Buenos Aires in Argentina to the port in Colonia del Sacramento. The journey takes around an hour on the express ferry via the Río de la Plata that separates the two countries. The city’s main bus terminal is also located next to the port. Look for many significant landmarks within a short walking distance of the ferry terminal, which is close to the city’s historic centre.
