Uruguay is heading into a standout summer tourism season, with new forecasts projecting 1,424,000 non-resident foreign tourists entering the country between December and February. If met, these numbers would make the current season the second best in Uruguay’s history for international arrivals, surpassed only by the 2017–2018 summer.

The optimistic outlook is shared by the Ministry of Tourism (Mintur) and the Uruguayan Chamber of Tourism(Camtur), both of which are anticipating very high occupancy rates in the early weeks of the new year, according to local outlet La Diaria.

Tourism Minister Pablo Menoni noted that visitor numbers from neighboring Argentina and Brazil are expected to rise, reinforcing Uruguay’s position as a top regional getaway. Traditionally popular destinations such as Montevideo, Punta del Este, and Colonia del Sacramento are once again forecast to lead in foreign arrivals.

At the same time, authorities say this season’s strategy goes beyond the coastline. The country is actively promoting rural and nature tourism, aiming to spread visitor spending inland and highlight Uruguay’s landscapes, small towns, and outdoor experiences—signaling a broader vision for sustainable tourism growth beyond its iconic beaches.