At the mouth of the Río Queguay Grande, where it meets the Río Uruguay, lies the Islas del Queguay protected area. It includes nine islands, adjacent coastal areas and the Río Uruguay, covering a total area of 8,327 hectares. The Islas del Queguay are also a breeding and nesting ground for Rayadores, Atí and Gaviotines. You can discover the area from two perspectives: as a protected area at a river mouth and as a habitat for the bird species named above.
River Scenery and Guided Nature Experiences
For a guided exploration, the Montes de Queguay protected area has trails that visitors can explore on foot, by kayak or by canoe. The options mentioned range from walking trails to tours on the water. If you would like to include these trails in your trip, check the local arrangements before your visit.
A Castle with a Historic Name
The Estancia Buen Retiro and the Morató family castle lie in the rural interior of the Paysandú Department, in the Municipality of Guichón. When the estancia’s main building was completed in 1904, contemporaries called it “Castillo” (Castle) because of its imposing appearance. The name reflects the impression the building made at the time and offers a tangible link to the history of the place. This cultural heritage adds a distinct historical perspective to the nature and bathing experiences.
Thermal Baths and Model Aircraft
The Termas de Almirón have heated outdoor pools, indoor pools and a large pool that is temperature-controlled for summer. The Termas de Guaviyú have eight large pools, Jacuzzis, an indoor swimming pool, as well as courts for paddle tennis, frontón, football and volleyball. The descriptions highlight different features: Almirón lists several types of pools and seasonal temperature control, while Guaviyú adds specific sports courts to its pool facilities. Since facilities may change, check the current offerings before your visit.
In February, Vuela Termas, an international model aircraft gathering, takes place at the Termas de Almirón. It features more than 180 aircraft, helicopters and drones, and pilots from Uruguay, Argentina and Brazil. Before traveling, check whether the gathering is scheduled for your travel year.
Meseta de Artigas and Other Attractions
The Meseta de Artigas visitor center opened in December 2016. When it opened, its facilities included tourist information, toilets, changing rooms and food and drink options. If you would like to include the center in your plans today, check its current operating status in advance.
A tourist itinerary from 2021 included Paso de Andrés Pérez, Sendero de los Coronda and Farmacia Natural. Before planning your visit, check whether and how these stops can be visited today. This will help you match Paysandú’s different attractions—river scenery, guided explorations, history and thermal facilities—with the conditions during your travel period.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Esperanza, Daymán, Paysandú, Quebracho, Guichón, Piedras Coloradas, Termas de San Nicanor, Beisso
For the main travel overview: Uruguay.
