Río Negro

The Río Negro is the most significant river flowing entirely within Uruguayan territory, playing a central role in the country's geography and economy. It originates in southern Brazil in the Bagé hills and flows southwest for approximately 750 kilometers, cutting across Uruguay before emptying into the Uruguay River. The river effectively divides the country into a northern and a southern half. Its major importance stems from hydroelectric power generation. The Río Negro is home to three of Uruguay's four major hydroelectric dams: Rincón del Bonete, Baygorria, and Palmar. The reservoir created by the Rincón del Bonete dam in 1945 is the largest artificial lake in South America, covering an area of about 1,140 square kilometers. These dams are crucial for Uruguay's electricity supply. The river's basin is predominantly agricultural, with cattle ranching and, more recently, forestry and soy cultivation being prominent. This intensive land use has led to environmental concerns, particularly eutrophication from nutrient runoff, causing recurrent algal blooms in the reservoirs. Despite these challenges, the Río Negro remains a vital waterway for irrigation, fishing, and recreational activities.

Nearby cities

Fray Bentos

Fray Bentos is the capital city of the RN department in Uruguay and the administrative center of the region.

Young

Young is an important city in the RN department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.

Mercedes

Mercedes is the capital city of the SO department in Uruguay and the administrative center of the region.

Dolores

Dolores is an important city in the SO department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.

Carmelo

Carmelo is an important city in the CO department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.

Gualeguaychú

Located in southeastern Entre Ríos, Gualeguaychú is world-famous for hosting the largest and most spectacular carnival in Argentina.

Concepción del Uruguay

A historic port city on the Uruguay River, featuring significant architectural landmarks and colonial history.

Colonia del Sacramento

Colonia del Sacramento is the capital city of the CO department in Uruguay and the administrative center of the region.

Colón

Known for its sandy beaches on the Uruguay River and proximity to El Palmar National Park.

Tarariras

Tarariras is an important city in the CO department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.

Cardona

Cardona is an important city in the SO department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.

History & landmarks

Floralis Genérica

A giant metal flower sculpture that opens and closes throughout the day.

Nature

Uruguay River

One of the most important rivers in South America, forming the natural border between Uruguay and Argentina.

Queguay River

A tributary of the Uruguay River, bordered by dense gallery forests.

More places

M'Bopicuá Biopark

An important conservation area and breeding center for Uruguay's native animal species.

Ruins of M'Bopicuá

The remains of a massive 19th-century meat salting plant on the banks of the Uruguay River.

UPM Fray Bentos Pulp Mill

One of the world's largest pulp mills located on the banks of the Uruguay River.

Esteros de Farrapos National Park

Wetlands and islands along the Uruguay River, providing shelter to birds and the endangered maned wolf.

Port of Fray Bentos

A river port with deep water access, supporting the export of agricultural and timber products.

Río Negro Forest

Gallery forests along the Río Negro with rich biodiversity.

Narbona Estate

One of the oldest rural buildings in Uruguay, built in 1732 by Juan de Narbona.

Finca Narbona Farm

A historic agricultural estate producing high-quality wine and artisanal cheeses.