Punta del Diablo Sights

  1. Bosque de Ombúes

    The Ombu is native to the Pampas, a hardy, fast-growing tree able to survive on very little water. A tour through Bosque de Ombúes (Ombu Forest) takes an hour by jeep or tractor, or two hours by foot. Your guide will point out unique forest flora, fascinating birdlife, and carpinchos - large rodents used traditionally to cure influenza and the common cold.

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  2. Centro de Tortugas Marinas

    While Uruguay has no nesting beaches for sea turtles, the area from Barra del Chuy to Punta del Diablo is an important foraging area. The Center for Marine Turtles provides information on when to see these cute creatures, as well as running a volunteer program and educating visitors on environmental factors threatening the turtles and their habitat.

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  3. Fortaleza de Santa Teresa

    One of Uruguay's most significant historic monuments, Fortaleza de Santa Teresa sits on a hilltop in the national park. In 1762, the Portuguese began its construction - Spaniards then put on the finishing touches after capturing it in 1793. Restored in 1928, the fort is made of double-layered stone filled with soil. It also has a chapel and museum.

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  4. Laguna Negra

    Located in Parque Nacional de Santa Teresa, and a popular destination with Uruguayan and Brazilian visitors, the enormous Laguna Negra and surrounding marshes support abundant bird life, as well as some highly venomous snakes. You can also take a scenic boat ride on the lake.

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  5. Parque Nacional Santa Teresa

    More a historical than a natural attraction, this coastal park is within easy hiking distance from Punta Del Diablo and contains the hilltop Fortaleza de Santa Teresa, which was begun by the Portuguese but captured and finished by the Spaniards. Santa Teresa's a humble place, but Uruguayan and Brazilian visitors enjoy its uncrowded beaches and decentralized basic forest camping.

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  7. Punta Del Diablo Village

    Fabulously remote, seriously underdeveloped and stunningly picturesque, this little fishing-surfing village of wooden cabins and winding dirt streets attracts a nature-oriented crowd. Parque Nacional Santa Teresa is within easy hiking distance. Horse riding can be arranged; ask in town for Sr José Vega.

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