Uruguay is located in the southeastern part of South America, bordered by Brazil to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the southeast, and Argentina to the west across the Rio de la Plata. The country covers an area of approximately 176,000 square kilometers, making it the second smallest nation on the continent. Its landscape features rolling plains, low hills, and a few rivers, with the Uruguay River forming part of its northern border. The climate in Uruguay is temperate, with warm summers and mild winters. The country has a diverse range of ecosystems, including coastal areas, grasslands, and wetlands. Major cities like Montevideo, the capital, and Punta del Este are located along the coast, while the interior is characterized by agricultural land and small towns.