Punta del Este is preparing to receive a massive influx of Argentine tourists, anticipated to be one of the best seasons in recent years. According to information obtained by the Argentine News Agency (NA), Javier Azcurra, Vice President of the Uruguayan Chamber of Tourism (Camtur) and a Punta del Este businessman, confirmed in an interview that reservations already exceed last year's figures, driven by a key factor: price competitiveness compared to the Argentine coast. The executive revealed to La Nación that the combination of dollar stability and the current exchange rate has generated a 'rebound effect,' making Uruguay accessible again. Azcurra was emphatic in comparing costs between Uruguay and Argentina. 'We have very competitive prices for Argentines, practically identical or very similar in gastronomy and hospitality to those on the Argentine coast, something that hasn't happened in many years,' he indicated. This factor, along with the possibility that Argentine tourists may have accessed US dollars in the last six months, makes the return of a tourist segment that had opted for domestic destinations like Mar del Plata, Pinamar, or Gesell possible. Who are the Argentines who will travel to Punta del Este According to Azcurra, the phenomenon is observed in two segments: young people and families traveling outside the first half of January, when accommodation prices drop. 'There is a third group that has been vacationing in Gesell, Pinamar, Mar del Plata, etc., for a long time and this year, for the same or slightly less or slightly more, has the possibility of returning to Punta del Este,' the executive explained, recalling that the last time Uruguay was so price-competitive was in 2017. How many Argentine tourists are expected in Uruguay in 2026 Argentine tourism represents 65% of Uruguay's sun and beach tourism. In addition to competitive prices, international tourists will continue to enjoy a significant benefit: the exemption from the 22% VAT on hotel and gastronomy expenses, making the experience even more economical. The festive atmosphere is already secured: 50 parties for young people have been confirmed alone between December 27 and January 10.