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Cerro Colorado
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Cerro Colorado, the 'Red Hill', is a small town and geological formation in the Florida Department of Uruguay. The name refers to the reddish color of the soil and rocks in the area, which are rich in iron oxides. The hill itself is a gentle elevation with an altitude of around 200 meters, part of the foothills of the Cuchilla Grande range. Geologically, the area is composed of Precambrian metamorphic rocks and granites. Although not topographically prominent, Cerro Colorado holds historical significance. Several battles took place in its vicinity during the 19th-century Uruguayan civil wars. The town of the same name was founded in 1869. Today, the region's economy is heavily agricultural, focusing on cattle and sheep farming, as well as the cultivation of cereals and sunflowers. The landscape is a typical Pampas plain with gentle undulations, characteristic of the productive agriculture of the Florida Department.
- Location: Uruguay
- Nearby: Casupá (20 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 22 | 20 | 17 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 21 |
| Rain mm | 104 | 115 | 122 | 108 | 100 | 99 | 91 | 104 | 104 | 117 | 95 | 97 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
This visually striking hill situated right in the heart of Florida is typically reached by car via standard rural highways. The final, much slower approach usually involves navigating local dirt farm roads.
Best season
Spring reliably brings wonderfully lush green landscapes and highly pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities. Summer can be intensely hot here, making early morning visits substantially more favorable.
Terrain & paths
The prominent hill presents a very characteristic profile against the surrounding, relatively flat plains. The general walking surface is mostly grassy and scattered with rocks, offering a moderate gradient.
What to bring
Basic hiking equipment, directly including comfortable shoes and solid sun protection, is usually perfectly sufficient. Since there are typically no shops nearby, pack all necessary snacks and drinks.
Parking
Visitors typically park their vehicles securely on the side of the designated rural access roads. Always firmly ensure your car is completely off the main track and does not obstruct heavy agricultural machinery.
Safety
Carefully watch out for loose rocks and surprisingly thorny bushes while ascending the slopes of the hill. Mobile phone reception can be highly patchy in these central rural areas, so always plan accordingly.
Time needed
A typical recreational visit to this striking geographical feature is usually quite brief and direct. Most visitors spend around one to two hours steadily hiking up, enjoying the view, and returning safely.
Geography
Facts
- Located in the Florida Department.
- The name refers to the iron-rich, red soils.
- Reaches a modest altitude of about 200 meters.
- The town of the same name was founded in 1869.
- Important battles of the Uruguayan civil wars took place nearby.
- The economy is based on livestock farming and cereal cultivation.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Cerro Colorado (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called Cerro Colorado?
The name comes from the distinctive reddish color of the rock.
Is the summit freely accessible?
Yes, no entrance fees.
How is the weather there?
Often windy, a windbreaker is helpful.
Is the path suitable for beginners?
There are easier routes, but basic skills help.
Are there nearby towns?
Yes, there are small towns in the surroundings.
Cerro Colorado: where is it located?
Cerro Colorado is located in Uruguay.
Cerro Colorado: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Dec.
Cerro Colorado: why is it worth visiting?
Cerro Colorado, the 'Red Hill', is a small town and geological formation in the Florida Department of Uruguay.
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