surfing

Punta 923: Playa Brava, Punta del Este, Uruguay; 2005

The close proximity of Cape Horn to Antartica severely restricts the ability of sub-antartic lows to storm up across the South American East Coast. Any swell originating from this region has to refract an extreme distance to make a significant impact. It can happen but rarely does, making the frigid Uruguain coast fairly reliant on stray weather systems and windswell from regional squalls. April to September is your best window for swell and favourable wind combinations but the deep winter (Jun-Aug) is really pushing the boundaries of human endurance in the south. The north of Uruguay is importantly a little warmer and often sees a lot more refracted southerly swell.

Thankfully, the points and coldwater reefs of the coast here are fantastic and will generally make the best of any swell striking the coastline. Be sure not to eat the famous 1 kilo T-Bone steaks BEFORE you surf, nothing worse than a case of the meat sweats on your only rideable day of the month. 

what to pack

Josh Stevenson: Boardshorts; 15 August 2006

Same as in the Rest of South America...Pack light when travelling to Uruguay, as it is very hot there (lightweight clothing in general), and drink a lot of water (bottled water is recommended). There's no need to bring your expensive belongings as the country on the whole, is very laid back and casual, but you may want to pack your dress shoes if you plan to go to the restaurants, bars, clubs. Make sure you take a good sunscreen (SPF 30+); a good insect repellent wouldn't hurt much either. Comfortable walking shoes, as there are many places to see.

Pretty much everything can be bought there, but still better to bring on the medicines you are used to take.