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Nature reserve · Cabo Polonio, Rocha
Monte de Ombúes
Largest grouping of ombu trees in the Río de la Plata region, along a stretch of about 20 km on the shores of the Laguna de Castillos. The visit is guided, with arrival by boat via the Arroyo Valizas or on foot.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Monte de Ombúes
The ombu is a plant with a broad trunk and soft wood that over the years forms large hollows inside. The name comes from Guarani. On the shores of the Laguna de Castillos lies the largest grouping of ombu trees in the Río de la Plata region, along a stretch of about 20 km.
The ombu trees share the area with tala, corticeiras, espinilhos and palms. The Laguna de Castillos is a protected area of the national system, in the Paisaje Protegido category, and is home to more than 250 bird species, such as flamingos, black-necked swans, herons, storks and tachãs. Foxes, skunks, capybaras and otters also live there.
The visit is guided and departs from rural establishments in the region. One option leaves from the Arroyo Valizas: a boat covers about 5 km along the arroyo, in roughly 20 minutes, to the Rincón de los Olivera, where the walk through the forest begins. Another option, Barra Grande, to the north of the lagoon, offers a 2 km walk through a corticeira forest to the ombu trees.
The excursion pairs well with Cabo Polonio, because boarding is on Ruta 10, a few kilometers north of the entrance to the village.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours, including the boat ride and the guided walk.
Best time
In summer departures are more frequent. For the rest of the year, you need to book in advance. Morning and late afternoon usually have more bird activity.
How to get there
The boarding for the Arroyo Valizas is near km 267 on Ruta 10, a few kilometers north of the Puerta del Polonio. Outside of summer, arrange the tour in advance with local operators.
Tip
Bring insect repellent, water and binoculars. Wear closed shoes for the forest trail. Do not climb the ombu trees: the trunks are fragile.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Monte de Ombúes
What is the Monte de Ombúes?
It is the largest grouping of ombu trees in the Río de la Plata region, along a stretch of about 20 km beside the Laguna de Castillos, in the department of Rocha.
Can you visit without a guide?
The visit is conducted with guides from local establishments, by boat along the Arroyo Valizas or on foot starting from Barra Grande.
How long does the tour take?
Two to three hours, with about 20 minutes by boat and the walk through the forest.
How far is it from Cabo Polonio?
The boarding point is near km 267 of Ruta 10, a few kilometers north of the entrance to Cabo Polonio.