Information
Landmark: Lagos de CanelonesCity: Canelones
Country: Uruguay
Continent: South America
Lagos de Canelones, Canelones, Uruguay, South America
Overview
Lagos de Canelones-Uruguay’s lakes and lagoons-form a shimmering patchwork of natural and man-made waters scattered across the Canelones Department.These lakes boast sweeping views, from glassy water to pine-covered hills, and teem with wildlife, offering countless ways to explore.They draw nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and families eager for a quiet escape.The main lake in Canelones is Lake 1, its surface rippling softly in the afternoon breeze.Laguna del Cisne, a sparkling blue gem near the coastal town of Salinas, is one of Canelones’ most important and picturesque lakes.Wrapped in green wetlands and thick vegetation, it’s a prime place to spot birds, from flamingos wading in the shallows to herons and sleek, gliding ducks.Perfect for fishing or kayaking, the calm water ripples softly under the sun, making it easy to spend a slow, peaceful day surrounded by nature.Number two.Laguna del Sauce, mostly in Maldonado Department, stretches far enough that its waters lap near the edge of Canelones.One of Uruguay’s largest freshwater lakes shimmers with crystal-clear water, where sunlight dances across its wide, open surface.A favorite spot for boating, jet skiing, and casting a line into the sunlit water.Just down the road, luxury resorts and sunlit vineyards invite you to savor fresh air and linger over a glass of wine with dinner.Number three.Laguna de los Cuervos is a small, tucked-away lake where you can hear nothing but wind in the pines-perfect for anyone craving solitude and a deep connection with nature.Thick forests give way to wide grassy shores, perfect for pitching a tent or setting off on a long, quiet hike.It’s home to capybaras, foxes, and a chorus of bright-feathered birds rustling in the trees.Number four.Across Canelones, you’ll find several man‑made lakes-broad, still waters built to store drinking water, feed irrigation canals, and help protect the land.A few of these man-made lakes now serve as lively recreation spots, with shaded picnic tables and winding paths that lead past quiet, glassy water.At Lagos de Canelones, you can spend the day gliding across calm, glassy lakes-perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or a quiet canoe ride.On larger lakes, you can sail or open up the throttle on a motorboat, feeling the wind whip past as calm waters give way to bursts of excitement.The lakes hold a variety of freshwater fish-bass, trout, even the occasional perch-drawing anglers from nearby towns and far beyond.You can cast a line at Laguna del Cisne or Laguna del Sauce, where the water catches the light, along with several other spots.The wetlands and forests around the lakes draw an impressive mix of wildlife-bright songbirds flitting between branches, frogs croaking in the reeds, and quiet deer moving through the shadows.If you love spotting birds, head to Laguna del Cisne or seek out the smaller, hidden lagoons where the water lies still as glass.Many lakes sit tucked among forests, sandy dunes, and gentle hills, with winding trails perfect for a quiet hike or snapping a photo of sunlight through the trees.Soft light filters through the trees, making it a perfect spot for yoga, meditation, or simply unwinding.Several lakes offer designated campsites, perfect for pitching a tent and falling asleep beneath a sky scattered with stars.Eco-tourism projects center on protecting natural habitats, leading visitors through quiet forest trails, and teaching ways to live more sustainably.Spring through summer, from September to March, is perfect for kayaking on clear rivers, hiking sunlit trails, and diving into outdoor sports.Autumn (April–June) brings crisp air, making it perfect for snapping photos, wandering leafy trails, and casting a line in the cool, still water.Winter (July–August) is calm and still, perfect for spotting kingfishers along the riverbank and soaking in the quiet.Nearby, Playa de Atlántida and La Floresta beckon with wide sandy beaches, the scent of grilled seafood drifting from shoreline cafés, and a handful of charming cultural spots to explore.Follow La Ruta del Vino through Canelones, stopping at celebrated wineries to sip Uruguay’s finest, from bold, dark Tannat to crisp whites.The Santa Lucía River is perfect for kayaking, hopping on a boat tour, or strolling its quiet banks where reeds rustle in the breeze.Tucked away from the rush of the cities, the Lagos de Canelones offer a quiet refuge where you can hear the soft ripple of water against the shore.Whether you’re paddling a kayak, spotting herons along the shore, or just stretching out in the sun, these lakes give you a true taste of Uruguay’s great outdoors.They’re ideal for a sunny day trip, a lazy weekend escape, or an eco-tour adventure, making them a must-visit for anyone roaming through Canelones and the nearby countryside.
