Audio Guide of Black Lagoon

Black Lagoon is part of Santa Teresa National Park and is open year-round from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. To get there, take Route 9 from Chuy; access is through the park’s main entrance, about 20 km south of the city. You can find more details on the official Uruguay Tourism website.

Admission to Santa Teresa National Park, which includes Black Lagoon, costs around 100 Uruguayan pesos for locals and 200 for foreigners; children under 12 enter free. There is no additional fee for the lagoon itself. Check updated prices on the National Parks portal.

It is recommended to allow at least 2 hours to explore the lagoon, walk the trails, and enjoy the natural surroundings. If you combine it with other areas of the park, you may need half a day. It is a relaxed visit, ideal for taking your time.

Black Lagoon is a unique coastal lagoon with dark water caused by tannins from nearby marshes, and it has ecological importance as a habitat for birds and native flora; historically, it was a sacred site for the Charrúa people and part of colonial routes along the Uruguay-Brazil border. It represents the biodiversity of southeastern Uruguay and is protected as a nature reserve.

The best time is during spring (September-November) or autumn (March-May) for mild weather and fewer mosquitoes; avoid peak summer because of the heat. Sunrise or sunset offers stunning views with soft light and better wildlife sightings.

The park’s main access is accessible, but the trails around the lagoon are sandy and dirt paths, which can be challenging for wheelchairs; there are ramps in key areas, but not along the entire route. We recommend contacting the park at +598 4724 1793 for assistance or adapted routes.

Nearby you will find the Fortress of Santa Teresa, just 5 km away, a historic 18th-century fort, and La Coronilla Beach for relaxing. There is also the Fishermen’s Village, ideal for trying local seafood. Explore more on the Uruguay XXI website.

Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and water, as there are no services at the lagoon; wear comfortable shoes for the trails. If you go by car, parking is free; consider a local guide to learn about the flora. Respect the park rules to help preserve the ecosystem.