Things to Do in Uruguay in April

April Weather in Uruguay

25°C (77°F) High Temp

12°C (53°F) Low Temp

51mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Harvest season brings exceptional wine experiences - tastings cost 40-60% less than peak season (UYU 800-1,200 vs UYU 1,500-2,000) and include fresh grape juice straight from the press
Beach temperatures perfect for swimming at 23-25°C (73-77°F) with minimal crowds - Punta del Este beaches have 70% fewer visitors than January but same warm ocean currents
Traditional gaucho activities peak during cattle roundup season - estancias offer authentic horseback experiences without tourist crowds, typically UYU 2,500-3,500 per day
Montevideo's cultural season begins with teatro Solís premieres and gallery openings - locals return from summer vacation creating vibrant nightlife scene

Considerations

Unpredictable weather swings from 12°C (53°F) mornings to 25°C (77°F) afternoons require constant layering and repacking
Afternoon thunderstorms arrive suddenly lasting 45-90 minutes, disrupting outdoor plans on 10 days throughout the month
Many beach restaurants and coastal accommodations still operate reduced hours from winter season, limiting dining options after 8pm

Best Activities in April

Colonia del Sacramento Colonial Walking Tours

April's mild temperatures make exploring cobblestone streets comfortable while avoiding December's crushing heat. The morning mist creates dramatic photography opportunities around Portuguese ruins. Rain typically holds off until afternoon, giving you 6-7 hours of clear exploration time.

Booking Tip: Book same-day through local guides at the ferry terminal for UYU 1,500-2,000 per person. Tours run every 2 hours starting 9am. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Montevideo Wine Bar Crawls

Local wine harvest celebrations begin in April, with bars offering tastings of new vintages alongside established bottles. The capital's nightlife returns to full swing as locals come back from beach vacations, creating authentic atmosphere rather than tourist-heavy scenes.

Booking Tip: Self-guided crawls work best - start at Ciudad Vieja around 7pm when locals begin evening socializing. Expect UYU 300-500 per glass for quality Tannat wines. Reference booking widget for organized tour options.

Punta del Este Beach Activities

Water temperature remains warm at 23-25°C (73-77°F) from summer but crowds disappear after Easter. Perfect for surfing lessons, beach horseback riding, and coastal cycling without peak season pricing or reservation battles. UV remains strong at index 8 despite autumn season.

Booking Tip: Book accommodations minimum 3 weeks ahead as many places close May-October. Beach activity rentals run UYU 800-1,500 per day. See current options in booking section below.

Estancia Gaucho Experiences

Cattle roundup season provides authentic working ranch experiences unavailable other times of year. Cool mornings are ideal for horseback riding, while warm afternoons suit asado preparation. Estancias operate full programs before winter closure, offering genuine cultural immersion.

Booking Tip: Reserve 2-3 weeks ahead for weekend stays. Day visits typically UYU 2,500-3,500 including meals and activities. Multi-day stays average UYU 4,000-5,500 per night. Check booking section for current ranch options.

Piriápolis Thermal Springs

Cool April mornings make hot spring soaking particularly appealing before temperatures climb. The resort town operates full services but without peak summer crowds. Thermal pools maintain 38-42°C (100-108°F) year-round, perfect contrast to variable weather.

Booking Tip: Day passes cost UYU 600-900 at most facilities. Book spa treatments same week for better rates than peak season. See current spa and resort options in booking section below.

April Events & Festivals

Early to Mid April

Vendimia Wine Harvest Festivals

Small wineries throughout Canelones and Montevideo departments celebrate grape harvest with open houses, traditional foot-stomping, and first-press tastings. Local families participate alongside visitors in authentic agricultural celebrations.

Varies based on Easter dates

Semana de Turismo Extended Weekend

Uruguay's Easter week creates 4-day weekend bringing domestic tourism surge but also cultural events in major cities. Museums extend hours, special exhibitions open, and traditional foods appear at local markets.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight merino wool layers - temperature swings from 12°C to 25°C (53°F to 77°F) require easy layering system

Waterproof phone case - sudden thunderstorms arrive without warning and can damage electronics quickly

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 despite autumn season, especially dangerous during beach activities

Closed-toe walking shoes with grip - cobblestone streets in colonial towns become slippery when wet

Compact umbrella under 200g (7oz) - afternoon storms last 45-90 minutes but arrive suddenly

Light rain jacket rather than poncho - wind during storms makes ponchos ineffective

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes increase after rain showers, particularly near rivers and wine regions

Power bank 10,000mAh minimum - weather delays can extend sightseeing days beyond planned charging opportunities

Quick-dry synthetic pants - morning mist and afternoon showers make cotton uncomfortable

Baseball cap with chin strap - coastal winds can reach 25-30 km/h (15-18 mph) during weather changes

Insider Knowledge

Wine harvest volunteers get free accommodation at many vineyards in exchange for 4-6 hours daily work - contact wineries directly in March for April opportunities

Montevideo's free weekend shuttle connects major attractions but only runs when cruise ships dock - check port schedule at montevideo.gub.uy for service days

Beach towns switch to winter schedules May 1st - book coastal restaurants for dinner before 7pm or many will be closed during your visit

Ferry between Buenos Aires and Montevideo offers 50% resident discounts if you book return trip minimum 15 days apart - perfect for longer South America itineraries

Avoid These Mistakes

Packing only summer clothes because it's 'beach season' - morning temperatures can drop to 12°C (53°F) requiring warm layers

Planning beach days after 2pm when thunderstorms typically arrive - schedule ocean activities for 10am-1pm window

Expecting Buenos Aires-level restaurant hours - Uruguayan dinner service starts later but ends earlier, especially in coastal towns during shoulder season