- 165 Days
- 10 Hours
- 16 Minutes
- 46 Seconds
Traveler's Guide
The Gran Fondo Punta del Este is much more than just a race. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover one of South America’s most exclusive destinations and enjoy a few days where sports, nature, art, and cuisine come together overlooking the ocean
How to Get There
Getting to Punta del Este is easy from anywhere in the world.
Punta del Este International Airport (PDP) handles domestic and international flights and is located just 20 minutes from the MACA Museum, the official venue of the Gran Fondo.
Those traveling via Montevideo can arrive at Carrasco International Airport, located just over an hour and a half away by highway.
From Buenos Aires, there are also daily flights and ferry services combined with ground transportation.
Where to Stay
Punta del Este offers one of the most comprehensive selections of accommodations in Latin America.
Five-star hotels, boutique hotels, beachfront apartments, country inns, and bike-friendly establishments ensure there’s an option for every travel style.
We’ll be announcing the Gran Fondo’s official partner hotels very soon, featuring special rates for participants.
Getting Around
The best way to explore Punta del Este is by car.
There are also taxis, private hire cars, ride-sharing apps, and bus routes connecting Punta del Este with Maldonado, La Barra, Manantiales, and José Ignacio.
The distances are short, allowing you to combine the beach, dining, and sightseeing in a single day.
A Destination to Discover by Bike
Punta del Este invites you to cycle well beyond race day.
The coastal routes, rural roads, and trails leading to La Barra, Manantiales, José Ignacio, and Pueblo Garzón offer some of Uruguay’s most scenic landscapes.
Many visitors take advantage of their stay to add an extra day or two of training and sightseeing.
The Perfect Summer
January is the ideal time to visit Punta del Este.
Long days, warm temperatures, beaches, unforgettable sunsets, and a vibrant social scene make the city one of the continent’s most popular destinations.
The ocean breeze accompanies much of the Gran Fondo route and is part of the challenge’s identity.
World-Class Cuisine
Punta del Este is one of South America’s major culinary hubs.
Beachside eateries, signature restaurants, wineries, cafés, and hidden gems offer cuisine that combines seafood, Uruguayan meats, exceptional wines, and a unique local flair.
If you extend your stay, be sure to visit José Ignacio, Pueblo Garzón, and the wineries of Maldonado.
Art, Architecture, and Nature
Few sporting events in the world are hosted by a contemporary art museum.
The MACA Museum – Pablo Atchugarry Foundation will be the venue for the start, finish, awards ceremony, and post-race festivities of the Gran Fondo.
Monumental sculptures, contemporary architecture, and nature create a unique setting that transforms the race into a cultural experience as well as a sporting one.
Must-See Attractions in Punta del Este
During your trip, we recommend visiting:
MACA Museum – Pablo Atchugarry Foundation.
Casapueblo.
- Punta del Este Harbor.
- Brava Beach and La Mano.
- Mansa Beach.
- La Barra.
- Leonel Viera Bridge.
- Manantiales.
- José Ignacio.
- José Ignacio Lighthouse.
- Pueblo Garzón.
- Garzón Winery.
- Viña Edén.
- Lussich Arboretum.
Practical Information
- Currency: Uruguayan Peso (UYU).
- Credit Cards: accepted at virtually all businesses.
- Language: Spanish (service in English and Portuguese is also common).
- Electricity: 220V.
- Weather in January: between 20° and 30°C.
- Medical services: hospitals, private clinics, and pharmacies available year-round.
Much more than just a race
The Gran Fondo Punta del Este is the perfect excuse to travel with friends or family.
While cyclists enjoy one of the region’s most spectacular routes, their companions can explore beaches, art galleries, wineries, nature reserves, and internationally renowned cuisine.
Because the best races don’t end when you cross the finish line. They continue in the places we discover, the people we meet, and the memories we carry with us forever.