Uruguay

The Eastern Republic of Uruguay is South America’s second small country located in the south eastern part of the continent. It is home to 3.46 million people of whom 1.7 million live in the capital Montevideo and its metropolitan area.

Uruguay's only terrestrial border is with Brazil to the north. To the west lies the Uruguay River, to the southwest lies the estuary of Río de la Plata, with Argentina only a short commute across the banks of either of these bodies of water. To the south-east lies the South Atlantic Ocean.

Montevideo was founded by the Spanish in the early 18th century. It won its independence in 1825-1828 following a three-way struggle between Spain, Argentina and Brazil.

The economy is largely based on agriculture (making up 10% of GDP and the most substantial export) and the state sector. Uruguay's economy is on the whole more stable than in its surrounding states, and it maintains a solid reputation with investors.

Uruguay is South America's most secular country, where there is no official religion, and in which church and state are separate.

A country the size of England and Wales with a charming, warm, friendly population of only 3 million, an ideal non-tropical riding climate, unexpectedly diverse landscapes – a little-known destination made for riding!

EMERALD COAST RIDING TOUR
Amazing 9 day ride along deserted sandy beaches, pine forests, around fresh water lagoons, palm groves and grasslands. Stay at traditional estancias and working farms.