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Natural park · Salto, Salto
Salto Chico
Basalt rapids of the rio Uruguai, about 3 km north of the center, with small beaches, camping, dorado fishing and the place where Artigas crossed the river during the 1811 Exodus.
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 Salto Chico
The Salto Chico is an area of rapids and small falls on the rio Uruguai, formed by basalt outcrops, about 3 km north of Salto's center. It is the smaller of the two falls that gave the city its name and the only one still visible: the Salto Grande, upriver, was submerged by the reservoir lake in 1979.
The falls are just over a meter high and change according to the river level. In floods they are covered by water; in low water the rocks emerge and form channels and natural pools.
The place has significance in Uruguayan history. In December 1811, the Exodus of the Eastern People, the march of thousands who followed José Artigas, crossed the rio Uruguai in this region heading to Entre Ríos. Between 1757 and 1763 there was a nearby Spanish fort, San Antonio del Salto Chico.
Today the Uruguayan bank has small beaches, camping areas and space for nature observation. The rapids are popular for sport fishing of dorado.
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
One to two hours.
Best time
In spring and summer, from October to March, to enjoy the riverbank. The rocks are more visible when the river is low; in floods the fall can disappear under the water.
How to get there
It is about 3 km north of the center, following the Costanera Norte. By car or bicycle the route is short.
Tip
Do not enter the water near the rapids: the current is strong and the river level changes with the operation of the dam. For dorado fishing, check the fishing regulations and prefer local guides.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Salto Chico
Where is Salto Chico?
About 3 km north of Salto's center, on the bank of the Uruguai River, following the Costanera Norte.
Is Salto Chico a large waterfall?
No. They are rapids with drops of just over a meter, which change with the river level and can disappear during floods.
What is the historical importance of Salto Chico?
It was in this region that the Exodus of the Eastern People, led by Artigas, crossed the Uruguai River in December 1811.
Can you swim at Salto Chico?
Swimming next to the rapids is not recommended because the current is strong. Use the small beaches along the shore and respect the signage.