Colonia del Sacramento: Prepare mate like a local Colonia del Sacramento: Make mate like a local

Learn how to prepare an authentic Uruguayan mate with the help of a local guide. Use a mate gourd, a bombilla (straw), a thermos, and yerba, and experience this tradition like a true Uruguayan.
Discover one of Uruguay's most representative traditions through an authentic and hands-on experience. You'll learn how to prepare and enjoy Uruguayan mate as you tour the historic surroundings of Colonia del Sacramento accompanied by a local guide.

We'll meet at Plaza de Armas Manuel Lobo, next to the Basilica del Santísimo Sacramento, where we'll have a brief introduction about the importance of mate in Uruguayan culture and how the activity will unfold.

During the tour, you'll learn about the history of mate from its origins and discover how this tradition became a fundamental part of daily life in Uruguay. You'll also learn the main differences between Uruguayan, Argentine, and Paraguayan mate, exploring the unique features of each.

We'll make a stop to learn step by step how to prepare this Uruguayan mate. The tour guide will show you how to place the yerba, the correct position of the bombilla, and the proper way to prime it. Then, each participant will be able to prepare their own mate and taste it using the items included in the Experience.

With the mate ready, we'll continue walking through the Historic District while enjoying it the way Uruguayans do: with the thermos under our arm and the mate in our hand. This is a unique opportunity to experience a local custom from the inside and understand its social and cultural significance.

The activity lasts approximately 1 hour and takes place entirely outdoors. It is available in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. The groups are small, with a minimum of 1 participant and a maximum of 6 people, allowing for an intimate and personalized experience.

Includes a bilingual tour guide, a mate gourd, a straw, a thermos, and yerba mate. The tour begins at Plaza de Armas Manuel Lobo and ends in the Historic District of Colonia del Sacramento. People with reduced mobility can participate in the preparation and food tasting experience, although the tour has limitations due to the characteristics of the city's historic streets.

Para garantizar la disponibilidad de la reserva lo antes posible. Vale la pena reservar con antelación, especialmente si planeas el viaje durante la temporada alta, como los días festivos o los fines de semana.

Esta excursión se puede cancelar sin costo alguno hasta :tiempo de cancelación horas antes del inicio del viaje. Si lo cancela después de 24 horas o no se presenta en la excursión, se le cobrará el precio total de la actividad. El retraso en la recogida o en la salida se considerará como no presentarse.