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Laguna Garzón Bridge
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Landmark
The Laguna Garzón Bridge is an architectural landmark on the Uruguayan coast, connecting the departments of Maldonado and Rocha. Designed by the renowned Uruguayan architect Rafael Viñoly, the bridge was inaugurated in December 2015. Its unique circular shape was deliberately chosen to slow down traffic, encouraging drivers to enjoy the panoramic view of the lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean. The structure is composed of sixteen precast concrete segments assembled on-site. It includes two lanes for vehicles, as well as a central pedestrian walkway protected by railings on both sides of the ring, allowing people to walk safely and admire the scenery. Before the bridge's construction, crossing the lagoon was only possible via a small raft ferry, which limited development in the Rocha region. The design aims to minimize environmental impact on the fragile lagoon ecosystem while promoting tourism and regional integration.
- Location: Uruguay
- Top sights: Laguna Garzon Bridge · San Sebastián
- Nearby: Aiguá (44 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 22 | 21 | 19 | 16 | 13 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 17 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 100 | 120 | 121 | 120 | 111 | 116 | 102 | 119 | 110 | 118 | 110 | 96 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Laguna Garzón Bridge is a public road bridge that can be crossed by car at any time. Pedestrians can walk along the edge, but there is no dedicated visitor area.
Typical hours
As a traffic structure, the bridge is open around the clock. There is no specific opening time; it is available at all hours.
Photography
Photography from the bridge or the shore is possible at any time. The unusual circular shape is best captured from above or with a drone.
Time needed
A simple crossing takes just a few minutes, stopping for photos about 10 to 15 minutes. Those exploring the surroundings can allow half an hour.
Combine with
The bridge lies between Punta del Este and La Paloma, making a day trip to nearby beaches convenient. The Laguna Garzón itself is a beautiful natural area for birdwatching.
Getting there
The bridge is on Route 10 and easily accessible by car. Parking is available right on the access roads on both sides of the lagoon.
Insider tip
Stop on the eastern side to get a good view of the entire circular structure. Especially at sunrise or sunset, impressive photos can be taken.
Geography
Facts
- Designed by Uruguayan architect Rafael Viñoly.
- Opened in December 2015.
- Construction costs were approximately $11 million USD.
- The bridge has a diameter of approximately 51.5 meters.
- It replaced a raft ferry service that could only carry 2 cars at a time.
- The structure is made of reinforced concrete.
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.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Laguna Garzón Bridge (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is the bridge circular?
The circular shape is intended to slow traffic and highlight the view.
Can pedestrians cross the bridge?
Yes, it has special paths for pedestrians and fishermen.
Is fishing allowed there?
Yes, fishing is a very popular pastime on the bridge.
Are there restaurants nearby?
Yes, there are some small restaurants on the shores of the lagoon.
Is the area popular with nature photographers?
Yes, due to the lagoon and wildlife it is an excellent subject.
Laguna Garzón Bridge: where is it located?
Laguna Garzón Bridge is located in Uruguay.
Laguna Garzón Bridge: what is there to see?
Highlights include Laguna Garzon Bridge, San Sebastián.
Laguna Garzón Bridge: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar, Dec.
Laguna Garzón Bridge: why is it worth visiting?
The Laguna Garzón Bridge is an architectural landmark on the Uruguayan coast, connecting the departments of Maldonado and Rocha.
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Maldonado
Maldonado is the capital city of the MA department in Uruguay and the administrative center of the region.
Punta del Este
Punta del Este is an important city in the MA department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
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Pan de Azúcar
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