Alongside boosting tourism, countries are becoming aware of the environmental impact this activity has and are shifting to more eco-friendly actions.

 

The country´s commitment

 

Uruguay’s National Tourism Plan 2030 envisions tourism as a pillar of sustainable growth, balancing economic opportunities with environmental care and social inclusion.

It represents a collective, long-term strategic framework crafted jointly by public institutions and private-sector stakeholders, including regional governments, unions, educational institutions, and tourism operators, to guide national tourism development through 2030.

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It focuses on protecting natural and cultural resources, diversifying destinations across the country, and fostering innovation in tourism products. With a strong focus on accessibility, and responsible practices, the plan also seeks to boost Uruguay’s international positioning while ensuring that tourism development benefits communities across the country.

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What to do

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Red Ánimas is made up of community members, local experts, entrepreneurs and producers eager to showcase the province´s charm. Their program welcomes visitors to take in the breathtaking views from the top of the Sierra de las Ánimas, visit local producers, meet artists and artisans in their homes and workshops. It also includes tours of sites rich in history and beauty brought to life by experts and technicians.

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AMBÁ is a non-profit Uruguayan organization in Rocha that promotes ecosystem regeneration and the connection between communities and nature. In the Sierras de Carapé, they offer hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a Regeneration Center with educational experiences. Within the framework of the “Islas y Canales Verdes del Río Uruguay” project, public-use infrastructure was developed around the Esteros de Farrapos and Islas del Río Uruguay National Park to encourage peaceful stays immersed in the most beautiful landscape. They run a kayaking program for schools, combining environmental education, sports, and responsible tourism in collaboration with local communities.

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When looking for an option closer to the capital city, Caminos del Agua in Santiago Vázquez, Montevideo, offers canoe and kayak trips, hiking, and guided tours of the village and its natural surroundings, accessible for people of all ages and physical requirements. In addition to its tourism initiative, Caminos del Agua fosters inclusion and learning by promoting community canoeing activities that engage children, young people, and seniors from the area.

 

Further north-east, in the province of Cerro Largo, Tinambú Ecolodge – Paso Centurión Tours offers an authentic, locally rooted ecotourism experience in one of Uruguay’s protected landscapes. It features sustainable lodging, hiking trips, birdwatching, deep connection with biodiversity, and a strong community-centered approach. This area is known for its exceptional biodiversity, featuring over 260 bird species, unique mammals such as the puma yaguarundí and the maned wolf (aguará guazú), and distinctive flora including specimens of Araucaria angustifolia.

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These types of initiatives pave the way for future sustainable and eco-friendly tourism, under the stewardship of national policies that reflect a profound commitment to balancing economic development with environmental responsibility and community well-being.

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For more experiences, check out the Ministry of Tourism´s website.