Uruguay

Places to visit in Uruguay

Rocha is one of the most visited departments of Uruguay by ecotourists, due to its incredible natural environment.

A fishing village, "Cabo Polonio", in the department of Rocha, known for its dunes, is home of one of the worlds largest reserve of sea lions (with about 120,000 and 200,000 in "Isla de Lobos"). In Rocha the National Park of "Santa Teresa" with an extension of 3,000 hectares and home of more than 330 types of roses is also a camping places, ideal for families with children.

In wetlands, in Rocha, there is one of the world's largest ombu forests, being some trees more than 500 years old. "Laguna de Castillos", a beautiful lagoon surrounded by wetland and forests.

One of the highest points of Uruguay is "Cerro de las Animas" (Hill of Souls) with wonderful views over the capital and natural surroundings, and specially recommended for bird watching. Close in this area there is located in an impressive canyon the "Valle de los Pozos Azules" (Valley of Blue Wells).

"Salto del Penitente", a waterfall of about 60 m high, located in the department of Lavalleja and close tho the city of Minas, in an extraordinary preserved natural area, where visitors can spend some days or have a horse ride throughout the park.

Montevideo the capital of Uruguay centers the cultural activity of the country. It is located in the south of the country and just about 20 km far away from the airport. The old town of the city "La Ciudad Vieja" a recommended area for admire colonial architecture of its buildings. There is also a popular market with Uruguayan crafts besides the cultural offer of theaters, cinemas and concert halls.