Uruguay Nature and Wildlife

Large mammals are considered rare within Uruguay, however, there are 105 recorded mammal species in the country which include fox, deer, otter and other smaller species. The fauna is not as diverse as the flora of Uruguay which is quite abundant as the nation is well-forested and is home to many incredible beaches, lagoons, forests and other excellent natural areas. Uruguay is currently implementing a National System of Protected Areas (SNAP) to help promote conservation and to protect the country’s natural landscapes and beauty.

Rocha Lagoon and Castillos Lagoon are both popular spots for ecotourism within Uruguay.  Rocha Lagoon was declared a national park in 1977 and has become a known birding paradise that hosts over 220 species including flamingos, doves, herons and black-necked swans.  These swans, which number more than 10,000, are a major attraction. Castillos Lagoon is a stunning part of the country that is surrounded by wetlands, palm groves and ombú forests.  Ombú trees are massive evergreens that have a large umbrella-like canopy that can stretch 12-15 m (40-50 ft). They have become a symbol of Uruguay and the Gaucho culture that exists in the country as the trees provide shelter from the sun and rain.  

Other points of interest for nature lovers in Uruguay include Arequita National Park and Esteros de Farrapos National Park. Arequita protects Cerro Arequita, a mesa of volcanic rock. There is also a forest that includes ombú trees, providing habitats for a variety of wildlife. The park offers many opportunities to hike and explore the nature available in Arequita. Esteros de Farrapos National Park has been designated as a wetland of international significance that hosts twenty-four islands. There are over 200 species of birds recorded within the park as well as 30 mammal species. The park provides the last known refuge for pumas in Uruguay and is the only protected area where the maned wolf (a species that is rare in Uruguay) has been spotted. 

Uruguay Travel Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Uruguay.

Learn about the history and culture of Uruguay, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Uruguay's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Uruguay for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Uruguay vacations today!

Extend Your Trip

After your Uruguay tours  why not consider another of Goway's Latin America tours. These include a large selection of other exciting countries in Central and South America. We offer Chile vacation packages and Easter Island tours, Ecuador vacation packages which include Galapagos cruises, Peru vacation packages which include Machu Picchu tours and Brazil tours including Iguassu Falls tours among many others.

Book your Uruguay tour with Goway! 

LATIN AMERICA by Goway is an exclusive division that specializes in planning and organizing Uruguay vacations and experiences. Choose from a simple city stopover, an independent travel module, a Holiday of a Lifetime and much more. We want to be your first choice when next you go globetrotting to Uruguay.