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Hill · Piriápolis, Maldonado
Cerro Pan de Azúcar
One of Uruguay's highest hills, about 400 meters, with a 35-meter concrete cross on the summit and an ascending trail starting from the fauna reserve.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cerro Pan de Azúcar
Cerro Pan de Azúcar lies about 10 km north of Piriápolis and is among the highest points in Uruguay, at roughly 400 meters. It is composed of very old granite and gneiss, and the name appears in records as far back as 1717.
On the summit stands a 35-meter reinforced-concrete cross, erected in 1933. Beside it is a television antenna. Inside, the cross has stairs up to the arms, but access to the interior may be closed: check on site.
Francisco Piria bought the hill's lands in 1890 and opened a quarry on one slope, which at times employed more than 500 workers and supplied granite for building the resort.
The ascent starts in the area of the Estación de Cría de Fauna Autóctona on the eastern slope. The most used trail is steep and includes rocky sections; from the top the view reaches the coast, the lagoons and the inland ranges.
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 to climb and descend.
Best time
Spring and autumn offer better temperatures for the climb. On days of extreme heat the ascent may be closed due to fire risk: check before you go. Avoid climbing in the rain.
How to get there
The entrance is beside Ruta 37, about 10 km north of Piriápolis, at the same access as the Estación de Cría de Fauna Autóctona. The simplest access is by car.
Tip
Bring water, sunscreen and shoes with good grip. Start early in summer and respect the reserve's notices about ascent times.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cerro Pan de Azúcar
How high is Cerro Pan de Azúcar?
About 400 meters. It's among the highest points in Uruguay.
Is the climb difficult?
The trail is steep and includes rocky sections. Bring water and wear shoes with good grip.
Is the trail always open?
It may be closed on days of extreme heat due to fire risk. Check before you go.
What is at the summit?
A 35-meter concrete cross from 1933 and a TV antenna, with views of the coast and the hills.