Things to Do in Mercedes
Mercedes, Uruguay - Complete Travel Guide
Mercedes is a charming city located in the Soriano Department of southwestern Uruguay, situated along the banks of the Río Negro. Known as one of Uruguay's most picturesque inland destinations, Mercedes combines colonial architecture with natural beauty, offering visitors a peaceful retreat from the bustling capital of Montevideo. The city serves as an important agricultural and commercial center while maintaining its historic character through well-preserved 19th-century buildings and tree-lined streets.
The city is renowned for its thermal springs, beautiful riverfront, and proximity to some of Uruguay's most significant natural areas. Mercedes provides an authentic Uruguayan experience, where visitors can enjoy traditional gaucho culture, explore historic sites, and relax in natural hot springs. The surrounding countryside offers excellent opportunities for rural tourism, fishing, and birdwatching, making it an ideal base for exploring the interior of Uruguay.
Top Things to Do in Mercedes
Visit Termas de Daymán Hot Springs
Relax in the therapeutic thermal waters at one of Uruguay's most famous hot spring complexes, located just outside Mercedes. The natural mineral-rich waters maintain temperatures between 38-45°C year-round and are believed to have healing properties for various ailments.
Booking Tip: Day passes cost around $15-20 USD, with spa treatments available for $30-50 USD. Visit during weekdays for fewer crowds, and book spa treatments in advance during peak season (December-March).
Explore Historic Downtown Mercedes
Stroll through the city's well-preserved historic center, featuring colonial and neoclassical architecture from the 19th century. Visit the main plaza, historic churches, and traditional buildings that showcase Mercedes' rich cultural heritage.
Booking Tip: Self-guided walking is free, while guided tours cost $10-15 USD per person. Best explored in the morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. Local tourism office provides free maps and information.
Río Negro Fishing and Boat Tours
Experience excellent freshwater fishing on the Río Negro or take scenic boat tours along Uruguay's largest river. The area is known for dorado, surubí, and other native fish species, while boat tours offer wildlife viewing opportunities.
Booking Tip: Fishing guides charge $80-120 USD for half-day trips including equipment. Boat tours cost $25-40 USD per person. Book through local operators who know the best fishing spots and seasonal patterns.
Visit Estancias and Experience Gaucho Culture
Immerse yourself in traditional Uruguayan ranch life by visiting working cattle estancias in the surrounding countryside. Experience horseback riding, traditional asado barbecues, and learn about gaucho customs and folklore.
Booking Tip: Day visits to estancias cost $60-100 USD including meals and activities. Overnight stays range from $120-200 USD per person. Book directly with estancias or through Mercedes tourism office for authentic experiences.
Explore Fray Bentos UNESCO World Heritage Site
Take a day trip to nearby Fray Bentos to visit the Anglo Meatpacking Plant, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and museum. This industrial heritage site tells the story of the global meat industry and its impact on Uruguay's development.
Booking Tip: Entry costs $8-12 USD with guided tours available for an additional $5 USD. Open Tuesday-Sunday, with English-language tours available on weekends. Allow 2-3 hours for the full experience.
Getting There
Mercedes is located approximately 280 kilometers northwest of Montevideo, accessible by well-maintained highways. The most convenient way to reach Mercedes is by rental car via Route 2 and Route 14, which takes about 3-3.5 hours from the capital. Regular bus services operate from Montevideo's Tres Cruces Terminal, with companies like COT and Agencia Central offering daily departures for around $15-20 USD. The bus journey takes approximately 4 hours. For those flying internationally, Montevideo's Carrasco International Airport is the nearest major airport, from where you can rent a car or take connecting bus services to Mercedes.
Getting Around
Mercedes is a compact city that can easily be explored on foot, especially the historic downtown area where most attractions are concentrated within a few blocks of the main plaza. Local taxis are available for longer distances and trips to the thermal springs, with fares typically ranging from $5-15 USD depending on the destination. Car rental is recommended for exploring the surrounding countryside, estancias, and nearby attractions like Fray Bentos. Bicycle rental is also available from some hotels and local shops, providing an eco-friendly way to explore the city and riverfront areas. Local buses connect Mercedes to nearby towns and thermal spring complexes.
Where to Stay
Historic City Center
Thermal Springs Area
Riverfront District
Rural Estancias
Fray Bentos Road
Residential Neighborhoods
Food & Dining
Mercedes offers authentic Uruguayan cuisine centered around excellent beef, river fish, and traditional preparations. Local parrillas (steakhouses) serve some of the country's best grass-fed beef, while restaurants along the Río Negro specialize in fresh dorado and surubí fish dishes. The city center features several traditional confiterías where locals gather for coffee, pastries, and light meals. Don't miss trying the regional specialties like cordero (lamb), chivito sandwiches, and dulce de leche desserts. Many estancias in the surrounding area offer traditional asado experiences with live folk music and dancing, providing an authentic taste of gaucho culture alongside exceptional grilled meats.
Top-Rated Restaurants in Uruguay
Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)
When to Visit
The best time to visit Mercedes is during the shoulder seasons of spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) when temperatures are mild and rainfall is moderate. Summer (December-February) is peak tourist season with warm weather perfect for thermal springs and outdoor activities, but expect higher prices and crowds. Winter (June-August) offers cooler temperatures ideal for exploring the city and countryside, though some outdoor activities may be limited. The thermal springs are enjoyable year-round, making Mercedes a viable destination in any season, with each offering different advantages for various activities and experiences.
Insider Tips
Book thermal spring accommodations in advance during peak season as the best hotels fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.
Try to time your visit with local festivals like the Fiesta de la Patria Gaucha in March for an authentic cultural experience with traditional music, dancing, and gaucho competitions.
Bring insect repellent during summer months, especially if planning river activities or estancia visits, as mosquitoes can be prevalent near water sources and rural areas.