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Anchorena Park

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

Weather…

Anchorena Park, located at the confluence of the San Juan River and the Río de la Plata in the Colonia Department, is the official summer residence of the President of Uruguay. This vast estate, spanning 1,369 hectares, was once the property of Argentine aristocrat Aarón de Anchorena. A passionate naturalist and traveler, Anchorena acquired the land in 1908 and transformed it into a botanical arboretum, importing over 200 species of trees and shrubs from around the world. The main building, of Norman style, was designed by architect Alejandro Christophersen. A prominent feature of the park is the 75-meter-high stone observation tower, which provides panoramic views of the estate and the river. In his will, Anchorena bequeathed the entire property to the Uruguayan state on the condition that it be preserved as a park and used as a residence for the head of state. Upon his death in 1965, the property passed to the state and has served this purpose ever since.

Location: Uruguay
Nearby: Tarariras (36 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Nov, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	25	24	22	19	15	12	11	13	14	17	21	23
Rain mm	105	122	123	98	74	54	72	71	83	109	101	94

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Anchorena Park, a 1907 estate, now serves as a presidential residence and nature reserve. The exterior grounds and gardens are open to the public on certain days, while the house itself is typically not open for visits.

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Typical hours

The park's opening hours are irregular, typically open on weekends and public holidays. It is best to check ahead with the tourist information office in Colonia del Sacramento.

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Photography

Photography of the gardens and exterior façade is allowed, but respect the privacy of the residents. Drones are prohibited as it is a presidential property.

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Time needed

A walk through the park and gardens takes about an hour. If you also explore the nearby trails in the nature reserve, plan for two to three hours.

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Combine with

The park is near Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage city. Combine your visit with a walk through the old town and to the lighthouse.

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Getting there

Anchorena Park is about 15 km from Colonia del Sacramento. It is best reached by car or taxi; public transport is infrequent.

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Insider tip

Bring a picnic as there are nice shady spots in the park. Ask at the gate for a trail map to explore the nature reserve.

Geography

Coordinates

-34.27080, -57.94220

Facts

The property was acquired by Aarón de Anchorena in 1908.
It spans an area of 1,369 hectares.
The observation tower is 75 meters high.
It was bequeathed to the Uruguayan state in 1965.
It is home to over 200 species of native and exotic trees.
It has served as a presidential residence since the government of Jorge Pacheco Areco.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

San Carlos Bullring14 km · NWExplore →

Lighthouse of Colonia15 km · NWExplore →

Montes del Plata Pulp Mill15 km · SExplore →

Colonia del Sacramento17 km · NWExplore →

Martín García Island34 km · SExplore →

Tarariras36 km · NExplore →

YPF La Plata Refinery36 km · WExplore →

Republic of the Children37 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Anchorena Park (1)

Parque Nacional Anchorena🌿 nature

This national park was once a private estate and features a Tudor-style mansion and herds of wild deer.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How do you visit Anchorena Park?

Visiting is only possible via guided tours by prior appointment.

What is there to see?

The park has exotic trees and the former manor house.

Can I have a picnic there?

No, as it is a protected historic area.

Is it child-friendly?

It is quite calm, less exciting for young children.

What should I bring along?

Good shoes and sun/insect protection are recommended.

Anchorena Park: where is it located?

Anchorena Park is located in Uruguay.

Anchorena Park: when is the best time to visit?