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Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge

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Animal habitat
—°1
Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge (Uruguay)

Weather…

Quebrada de los Cuervos is a deep gorge located in the department of Treinta y Tres and is one of Uruguay's most significant protected areas. The name, meaning "Gorge of the Crows," actually refers to the turkey vulture, which is commonly found here and often misidentified as a crow. The gorge was carved by the Yerbal Chico stream into the rock over millions of years, creating a unique subtropical microclimate. This microclimate allows for the flourishing of vegetation more typical of southern Brazilian regions, with a great diversity of tree species, ferns, and orchids. The area was incorporated into the National System of Protected Areas (SNAP) in 2008 and is a popular destination for ecotourism, hiking, and birdwatching. The landscape gives dramatic views from the cliffs and tranquil trails along the stream at the gorge's bottom. Conservation efforts are focused on preserving this unique ecosystem and its rich biodiversity.

Best time to visit & climate

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

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C222220171311101213161820
Rain mm1061311001231241079412613013287108

📋 Practical info

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Best season
The best season for birdwatching at Quebrada de los Cuervos is spring (September to November) and summer (December to March), when birds of prey are nesting. Autumn and winter see fewer active species, but the landscape is quieter and less crowded.
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Best time of day
Early morning is well-suited as thermal currents develop and birds of prey begin circling after their night roost. Late afternoon before sunset also provides good visibility when birds are actively hunting for food.
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Etiquette
Always stay on marked hiking trails to avoid disturbing nesting birds. Avoid loud conversations and sudden movements, as the birds are highly sensitive to disturbance.
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What to bring
A binocular with good magnification is essential to spot birds of prey often perched high on cliff faces. Sturdy footwear with good tread is necessary as the trails can be rocky and uneven.
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Getting there
Quebrada de los Cuervos is located about 45 kilometers northeast of Treinta y Tres and is accessible by car via Ruta 8. From a small parking area, a marked hiking trail descends into the gorge.
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What to expect
Birds are often seen high on the cliffs or in flight; find a shaded spot and wait quietly. It may take a while for the birds to appear, but with patience you will likely spot several species.

Geography

Coordinates
-32.91670, -54.46670

Facts

  • Located in the department of Treinta y Tres.
  • The name refers to the turkey vulture, not crows.
  • The gorge reaches depths of up to 100 meters.
  • It was incorporated into the National System of Protected Areas (SNAP) in 2008.
  • It hosts a subtropical microclimate unique in Uruguay.
  • Over 100 bird species, 20 mammal species, and 20 amphibian species have been recorded here.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Quebrada de los CuervosQuebrada de los Cuervos17 km · NExplore →
Treinta y TresTreinta y Tres22 km · NWExplore →
Ejido de Treinta y TresEjido de Treinta y Tres23 km · NWExplore →
Fraile MuertoFraile Muerto27 km · EExplore →
José Pedro VarelaJosé Pedro Varela35 km · WExplore →
Cerro de las EspadasCerro de las Espadas45 km · NEExplore →
MeloMelo48 km · NEExplore →
Posta del ChuyPosta del Chuy53 km · NEExplore →

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 Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge (1)

Quebrada de los cuervos🌿 nature

This nature reserve houses a deep gorge carved by the Yerbal Grande stream and is a key habitat for black vultures.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Quebrada de los Cuervos?
An impressive canyon with rich biodiversity, convenient for hiking.
How demanding is the hiking?
There are moderate trails, good fitness is recommended.
Do I need a guide?
A guide is highly recommended for safety and interesting information.
Where do I park?
There is a designated visitor parking area at the entrance.
Is there water on-site?
No, bring sufficient drinking water for the hike.
Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge: where is it located?
Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge is located in Uruguay.
Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar, Dec.
Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge: why is it worth visiting?
Quebrada de los Cuervos is a deep gorge located in the department of Treinta y Tres and is one of Uruguay's most significant protected areas.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Treinta y Tres — Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge (Uruguay)
Treinta y Tres
Treinta y Tres is the capital city of the TT department in Uruguay and the administrative center of the region.
Ejido de Treinta y Tres — Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge (Uruguay)
Ejido de Treinta y Tres
Ejido de Treinta y Tres is an important city in the TT department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Vergara — Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge (Uruguay)
Vergara
Vergara is an important city in the TT department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Fraile Muerto — Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge (Uruguay)
Fraile Muerto
Fraile Muerto is an important city in the CL department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
José Pedro Varela — Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge (Uruguay)
José Pedro Varela
José Pedro Varela is an important city in the LA department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Melo — Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge (Uruguay)
Melo
Melo is the capital city of the CL department in Uruguay and the administrative center of the region.
Lascano — Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge (Uruguay)
Lascano
Lascano is an important city in the RO department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.

More places

Quebrada de los Cuervos — Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge (Uruguay)
Quebrada de los Cuervos
An impressive gorge in the hills of Treinta y Tres, known for its dense vegetation.
Montes del Río Cebollatí — Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge (Uruguay)
Montes del Río Cebollatí
Dense forests along one of the most important rivers in eastern Uruguay.
🗺️
Cerro de las Espadas
A rocky hill known for its sharp ridges.
Posta del Chuy — Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge (Uruguay)
Posta del Chuy
A historical rest house and bridge structure in the Cerro Largo Department from the mid-19th century.
Cuchilla Grande — Quebrada de los Cuervos Gorge (Uruguay)
Cuchilla Grande
A range of hills that crosses the eastern part of Uruguay.