Reddish, consolidated sandstone columns support the approximately 70-centimeter-thick ceiling of the Grutas del Palacio. The columns average two meters in height; the caves were formed by water erosion. In Uruguay, the Grutas are considered the most emblematic site of the UNESCO Global Geopark, which takes its name from them. The geopark is located in the Department of Flores, in southern central Uruguay.
Its attractions include natural landscapes as well as geological, paleontological, archaeological, historical and cultural sites. In Flores, therefore, landforms and traces of the past come together. Tours along the route to the grotto are scheduled at hourly intervals: the first tour starts at 10 a.m. and the last at 4 p.m. Check the schedule before you arrive.
Landscape and traces of earlier times
East of Trinidad, the protected area of Localidad Rupestre de Chamangá covers more than 12,000 hectares. It lies in the RĂo Negro basin and the sub-basin of the Chamangá stream. The stream’s headwaters are located at Cuchilla Grande Inferior. This setting also describes the landscape through its waterways: the area belongs to a larger river system and, at the same time, to the catchment area of a smaller stream.
The Chamangá rock paintings are also featured at the Museo Histórico Departamental de Flores Dr. Fernando Gutiérrez in Trinidad. The museum is housed in a former railway station built in 1916. Exhibits include fossilized dinosaur remains and archaeological material associated with the protected area’s rock paintings.
Other archaeological finds come from Arenales de Paso del Palmar and include projectile points, bolas, cores and numerous flakes. They are associated with people who lived there thousands of years ago, possibly more than 10,000 years ago. This cautious dating leaves room for the uncertainty surrounding this distant past.
The Dr. Rodolfo Talice Flora and Fauna Reserve also has its own origins. It grew out of the “Flores por la vida” project and was inaugurated on July 30, 1991.
Animals and activities on the water
At Ecoparque Tálice, you can explore the park by electric bus and observe animals in their natural habitat. The protected area covers more than 40 hectares, where large herds of deer and peccaries live. The area is reported to have 1,500 animals representing 120 species; these population figures may change. Visitors can also take rides on the lake in white swan-shaped pedal boats. The experience in nature is described as educational and entertaining for people of all ages.
The Lagos de Andresito area offers another perspective on nature and the landscape. Activities there include water sports, sport fishing, geotourism and nature tourism. Tourists can reach the shores of Arenales de Paso del Palmar by boat on the “Andresito.” Check the current availability of this trip in advance.
Art along the national highway
MartĂn Arregui’s artwork ZooilĂłgico del Futuro consists of 13 cut-out iron sculptures. They stand at equal intervals along National Route No. 3. Their subjects combine cosmic themes with native animals; a tool is placed beneath each sculpture. The repeated arrangement and varied figures add a distinctive artistic touch to Flores’ cultural offerings.
Discover more destinations: Andresito, Trinidad, Ismael Cortinas, Lavalleja, Maldonado, Canelones, TacuarembĂł, Department of Salto.
For the main travel overview: Uruguay.
