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Paso de los Toros

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City
—°3
Paso de los Toros (Uruguay)
ℹ️

Practical info — Paso de los Toros

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • Visit the impressive Rincón del Bonete dam, about 12 km from the city; it is a prime spot for fishing and birdwatching.
  • Take a photo with the famous bull monument at the southern entrance, the unmistakable symbol of the city.
  • Walk the 'Vía Benedetti', a cultural path featuring poems by the world-renowned writer Mario Benedetti, who was born here.
  • Try the original 'Paso de los Toros' tonic water in its birthplace, where the formula was created in 1921.
  • Enjoy the riverside beaches at 'El Sauce' camping area, known for its fine white sand and relaxed atmosphere.

🍽 Food

🍽
Fresh River Fish

Look for fried dorado or surubí at riverside eateries or near the Rincón del Bonete dam.

🍽
Sunday Asado

Enjoy a traditional Uruguayan barbecue in the Midland Hotel area with scenic views of the Río Negro.

🍽
Paso de los Toros Tonic

Order the famous tonic water at any local bar near the main square to enjoy it in its hometown.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Woolen Goods

Look for handcrafted items made from local wool in the shops along the main street.

🛍
Tonic Souvenirs

Check local small shops for vintage-style items or products related to the tonic water heritage.

🧘
La Rambla

A peaceful riverside promenade first-rate for a sunset stroll with a traditional mate.

🧘
Uruguay Aquarium

A small, quiet aquarium near the dam showcasing native freshwater fish species.

Paso de los Toros is a city in the Tacuarembó Department, strategically located on the north bank of the Río Negro. Its modern identity was significantly shaped by the construction of the Rincón del Bonete Dam, built between 1937 and 1945, which houses the Gabriel Terra hydroelectric power plant. This project created Uruguay's largest artificial lake, the Rincón del Bonete Lake, and turned the city into a center for energy generation. The city was founded on July 1, 1903. Internationally, Paso de los Toros is famous for the namesake brand of tonic water, which was originally created here and is now marketed worldwide. The city's economy is diverse, encompassing forestry, cattle ranching, and services related to the dam. The Isabel de Bosch Bridge connects it to the south of the country, highlighting its importance as a transportation hub. With around 13,000 inhabitants, the city blends industrial heritage with natural beauty.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C252421181411101214172023
Rain mm1201381101341179279109111135101107

Geography

Population
12,985 (2021)
Coordinates
-32.81670, -56.51670

Facts

  • Founded on July 1, 1903.
  • The population is approximately 12,985 (2011 census).
  • Site of the Rincón del Bonete Dam, completed in 1945.
  • The origin place of 'Paso de los Toros' tonic water.
  • Its name means 'Pass of the Bulls'.
  • Located on the north bank of the Río Negro.

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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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Paso de los Toros (3)

Playa santa isabel🎡 recreation

Situated in the heart of Paso De Los Toros, Playa Santa Isabel is a delightful local sand beach along the riverbanks. Its highly relaxed and authentic atmosphere makes it a beloved gathering spot for residents and curious travelers. The welcoming setting is absolutely well-suited for unwinding in the sun and enjoying a refreshing swim. Packing a few snacks and arriving early will ensure you secure the best spot on the soft sand.

Playa el sauce🎡 recreation

Positioned along the riverbanks of Paso De Los Toros, Playa El Sauce stands out as a highly popular bathing destination. An animated and cheerful atmosphere runs through this location, often drawing crowds eager to beat the heat. Visitors can confidently expect lively swimming sessions, relaxed sunbathing, and pleasant riverside walks. A visit during the peak summer months has the liveliest and most enjoyable experience for everyone.

Playa la picada🎡 recreation

Tucked quietly away in Paso De Los Toros, Playa La Picada provides a wonderfully serene slice of the local riverfront. The deeply tranquil mood invites visitors to slow down and truly savor the natural surroundings without distraction. Gentle paddling in the water, reading under the sun, and unhurried walks are the main activities here. Bringing a comfortable blanket and enjoying the peaceful late afternoon breeze is the great way to conclude your visit.

Frequently asked questions

What is Paso de los Toros famous for?
The city is the birthplace of the famous beverage 'Paso de los Toros' (tonic water).
What can you do at the reservoir?
At the Rincón del Bonete reservoir, you can enjoy fishing, swimming, and water sports.
Are there cultural sights?
The Mario Benedetti Museum is worth visiting, highlighting the life of the famous Uruguayan writer.
Is the place good for families?
Yes, the relaxed atmosphere and leisure opportunities by the water are convenient for families.
What is the best way to travel there?
Paso de los Toros is centrally located and easily reached by intercity bus.
Paso de los Toros: where is it located?
Paso de los Toros is located in Uruguay.
Paso de los Toros: what is there to see?
Highlights include Playa santa isabel, Playa el sauce, Playa la picada.
Paso de los Toros: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
Paso de los Toros: why is it worth visiting?
Paso de los Toros is a city in the Tacuarembó Department, strategically located on the north bank of the Río Negro.
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