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Cerro Catedral
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Cerro Catedral, also known as Cerro Cordillera, stands as the highest point in Uruguay with an elevation of 513.66 meters. It is located in the Maldonado Department, within the Sierra Carapé mountain range, a branch of the larger Cuchilla Grande system. Contrary to what its name ('Cathedral Hill') might suggest, the summit is not a dramatic, rocky peak but rather a gently rolling, grass-covered hill that is barely distinguishable from the surrounding hills. Its importance lies solely in its altitude, which was only confirmed in 1973 following a precise survey by the Military Geographic Service. Before that, Cerro de las Ánimas was believed to be the country's highest point. The ascent to Cerro Catedral is relatively easy and does not require any special mountaineering skills, making it an accessible destination for hikers. The summit is marked by a small cairn of stones and gives wide panoramic views of the rolling Maldonado landscape. Although not as visually striking as other hills in the region, such as Cerro Pan de Azúcar, Cerro Catedral is an important geographical landmark and a symbol of national pride as the 'roof of Uruguay'.
- Location: Uruguay
- Top sights: Cerro Baltasar · Cerro Catedral · Cerro de la Bola
- Nearby: Aiguá (14 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 22 | 20 | 17 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 15 | 18 | 21 |
| Rain mm | 105 | 130 | 134 | 120 | 105 | 112 | 99 | 117 | 108 | 118 | 88 | 90 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Located within the Maldonado Department, access is typically via regional dirt roads that wind gently through the Sierra Carapé. The final approach usually requires a short walk across open land.
Best season
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant, mild weather for exploring this rural region. Summer can become quite hot, while winter frequently brings distinctly cooler, windy conditions.
Terrain & paths
As the highest natural point in Uruguay, the landscape mostly features gentle grassy slopes mixed with scattered rocky outcrops. The hike is generally considered moderate and very accessible.
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes and standard wind-resistant clothing are typically perfectly sufficient for this elevation. Always carry enough water and snacks, as local facilities are usually non-existent.
Parking
Vehicles are usually parked carefully along the rural roadside or near local farm gates where explicitly permitted. Make sure not to block any rural traffic or access to private agricultural lands.
Safety
The area is quite remote and sparsely populated, so self-reliance is very important. Be cautious of uneven ground sometimes hidden by tall grass and watch out for grazing livestock while walking.
Time needed
Reaching the highest point and returning to the rural road typically takes about one to two hours. Many visitors choose to spend a half-day generally exploring the surrounding scenic hill range.
Geography
Facts
- Its elevation is 513.66 meters.
- It is the highest point in Uruguay.
- Located in the Maldonado Department, in the Sierra Carapé range.
- Its status as the highest point was officially confirmed only in 1973.
- Previously, Cerro de las Ánimas was thought to be the highest point.
- The ascent is relatively easy and accessible to hikers.
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 Cerro Catedral (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Cerro Catedral?
It is the highest mountain in Uruguay.
Is the hike difficult?
It is more of a hill with a gentle ascent, good for hiking beginners.
Is a guide needed?
Not necessarily, as the path is well-marked.
How long does the ascent take?
It takes about 1 to 2 hours to reach the summit.
How is the view?
One has a nice panoramic view over the surrounding hilly landscape.
Cerro Catedral: where is it located?
Cerro Catedral is located in Uruguay.
Cerro Catedral: what is there to see?
Highlights include Cerro Baltasar, Cerro Catedral, Cerro de la Bola.
Cerro Catedral: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Cerro Catedral: why is it worth visiting?
Cerro Catedral, also known as Cerro Cordillera, stands as the highest point in Uruguay with an elevation of 513.66 meters.
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Nearby cities
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.
Piriápolis
Piriápolis is an important city in the MA department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Pan de Azúcar
Pan de Azúcar is an important city in the MA department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Aiguá
Aiguá is an important city in the MA department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Villa Serrana
A picturesque European-style village nestled in the hills of Lavalleja, known for its tranquility and architecture.
History & landmarks
Laguna Garzón Bridge
A unique circular bridge designed to slow down the speed of cars.
José Ignacio Lighthouse
A classic lighthouse in an exclusive coastal village overlooking the rugged Atlantic.
Leonel Viera Bridge
A unique undulating bridge in La Barra that crosses the Maldonado River.
Dragons Barracks
A historic military barracks where the national hero José Artigas began his military career.
La Mano de Punta del Este
A famous sculpture on Brava Beach, showing fingers emerging from the sand.
Casapueblo
An impressive structure built by artist Carlos Páez Vilaró, which is now a museum and hotel.
Piria's Castle
The former residence of Francisco Piria, the founder of the coastal city of Piriápolis.
Nature
Laguna José Ignacio
A peaceful coastal lagoon near the eponymous village, a popular destination for bird watching.
Laguna Garzón
A picturesque lagoon crossed by an unusual ring bridge and designated as a protected nature area.
Laguna del Sauce
The largest water reservoir in the Maldonado Department, also very popular for water sports.
Arroyo Solís Grande
A wide stream that flows into the Río de la Plata estuary and is often used for water sports.
More places
Sierra Carapé
The mountain range containing Cerro Catedral, Uruguay's highest point.
Sierra de las Cañas
A smaller hill range in the southeastern part of the country.
Garzón Winery and Olive Grove
A modern, sustainable agricultural project featuring extensive vineyards and olive groves.
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Agroland Agricultural Enterprise
A massive agricultural complex using wind energy to sustainably produce almonds, pecans, and beef.
Sierra de los Caracoles
A hill range in the Maldonado department known for its wind farms.
La Barra Museum of the Sea
A family-friendly museum featuring a massive collection of shells, whale skeletons, and maritime artifacts.
Chacra La Anyta Olive Farm
A picturesque farm near Pan de Azúcar specializing in artisanal olive oil and natural cosmetics.
Dragoon Barracks
A colonial-era military headquarters in Maldonado, built between 1771 and 1797.