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Cabo Polonio Lighthouse
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Landmark
The Cabo Polonio Lighthouse is an iconic structure on Uruguay's Atlantic coast, located in the department of Rocha. It was commissioned in 1881 to provide safety for navigation in the region's treacherous waters. The cylindrical stone tower stands 26 meters tall, and its light has a range of approximately 21.8 nautical miles (about 40 km). It is situated within the Cabo Polonio National Park, a protected area known for its pristine beaches, vast shifting sand dunes, and one of South America's largest sea lion colonies. The lighthouse is of vital importance to the small, isolated community of Cabo Polonio, as the village is not connected to the national power grid, and the lighthouse serves as one of the few constant sources of light and orientation. Visitors can climb the 132 steps to the top for a wide-open 360-degree view of the ocean, the dunes, and the village.
- Location: Uruguay
- Top sights: Faro de Cabo Polonio · Sea lions - seals · Parque Nacional Cabo Polonio
- Nearby: Valizas (5 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 | 18 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 104 | 125 | 130 | 122 | 117 | 119 | 106 | 127 | 117 | 120 | 92 | 90 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Cabo Polonio Lighthouse is open to visitors and can be climbed. The ascent gives fantastic views of the coast and the sea lion colony.
Typical hours
The lighthouse is typically open to visitors during daytime. Exact hours may vary depending on weather and season.
Photography
Photography is allowed inside and on the observation platform. Particularly good shots can be taken from the beach or the dunes.
Time needed
Climbing and staying at the top takes about 20-30 minutes. Exploring the entire area including the beach and sea lion colony takes 1-2 hours.
Combine with
Combine the lighthouse visit with a walk to the beach and the sea lion colony. Cabo Polonio National Park gives more hiking trails.
Getting there
Cabo Polonio is accessible only by 4x4 vehicles or on foot. An organized tour or rented off-road vehicle is recommended.
Insider tip
Visit the sea lion colony early in the morning when the animals are most active. Bring sturdy footwear for the sand and dunes.
Geography
Facts
- Commissioned: 1881
- Tower Height: 26 meters
- Number of steps: 132
- Light Range: 21.8 nautical miles
- Material: Stone
- Location: Cabo Polonio National Park
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 Cabo Polonio Lighthouse (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can one visit the Faro de Cabo Polonio at any time?
No, access depends on weather conditions and the season.
Cabo Polonio Lighthouse: where is it located?
Cabo Polonio Lighthouse is located in Uruguay.
Cabo Polonio Lighthouse: what is there to see?
Highlights include Faro de Cabo Polonio, Sea lions - seals, Parque Nacional Cabo Polonio.
Cabo Polonio Lighthouse: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar, Dec.
Cabo Polonio Lighthouse: why is it worth visiting?
The Cabo Polonio Lighthouse is an iconic structure on Uruguay's Atlantic coast, located in the department of Rocha.
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Nearby cities
Rocha
Rocha is the capital city of the RO department in Uruguay and the administrative center of the region.
Castillos
Castillos is an important city in the RO department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Lascano
Lascano is an important city in the RO department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Chuy
Chuy is an important city in the RO department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
La Paloma
La Paloma is an important city in the RO department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
La Pedrera
A chic seaside resort on a rocky peninsula, known for its excellent surfing conditions and winter whale watching.
Valizas
Valizas is a legendary bohemian coastal village, famous for its massive sand dunes and its simple, nature-oriented lifestyle.
Aguas Dulces
Aguas Dulces is a picturesque fishing village in Rocha, famous for its rustic beachfront houses and laid-back, bohemian vibe.
Punta del Diablo
A picturesque fishing village with colorful wooden cabins and a relaxed bohemian atmosphere on the wild Atlantic coast.
La Coronilla
La Coronilla is a peaceful seaside resort in Rocha, famous for its wide sandy beaches and sea turtle conservation efforts.
History & landmarks
Nature
Laguna de Castillos
A shallow lake surrounded by palm forests, serving as an important refuge for migratory birds.
Laguna de Rocha
A protected body of water near the Atlantic, serving as a significant habitat for many bird species.
Cebollatí River
One of the longest rivers in Uruguay, flowing into the Laguna Merín.
Laguna Merín
A large freshwater lake on the border between Brazil and eastern Uruguay.
More places
Cabo Polonio National Park (Sea Lions)
This coastal area hosts one of the world's largest colonies of sea lions in the wild.
Cerro de la Buena Vista
A large sand dune offering a magnificent view over Cabo Polonio.
Laguna de Castillos Protected Area
Surrounded by a rare Ombu forest, this lagoon is a haven for numerous capybaras and water birds.
Karumbé Sea Turtle Center
A conservation initiative at Cerro Verde that rescues and rehabilitates injured sea turtles.
Fortress of Santa Teresa
An impressive military fortress in the Rocha Department, started by the Portuguese in 1762.
Port of La Paloma
An Atlantic port used for fishing, timber exports, and maritime tourism.
Laguna de Rocha Bird Sanctuary
A shallow coastal lagoon serving as a crucial habitat for black-necked swans and flamingos.
Bañados del Este Wetlands
A vast swamp and lagoon system acting as a biosphere reserve protecting countless migratory birds.