Punta de las Salinas - Punto más Austral del Uruguay

Punta de las Salinas is a unique geographical point located at the very tip of the peninsula in Punta del Este. This is where the southernmost point of the entire territory of Uruguay is found. This natural wonder is famous for being the official meeting point of the murky fresh waters of the Río de la Plata and the bright blue salt waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

Punta de las Salinas – Southernmost Point of Uruguay. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The site owes its name to its historical past: salt was once actively extracted from seawater here, marking the first commercial activity in the region. Today, Punta de las Salinas is a popular natural attraction, drawing travelers with its dramatic landscapes, the rugged beauty of the rocky shore, and the feeling of being at the edge of the world.

The spot is marked by a concrete point on the rocks and a symbolic anchor, reflecting the region's maritime heritage. A high rating among tourists confirms that this is an ideal location for those seeking inspiration, who love the power of the ocean elements, and appreciate quiet walks with breathtaking views of the horizon.

To plan your visit to the country's southernmost point, you can use the information on the official tourism portal. The site is freely accessible, so no special tickets or advance booking are required.

The main reason people come to Punta de las Salinas is to contemplate the incredible power of nature. You can walk along the rocky outcrops right to the concrete marker denoting the far south of the country. It is especially interesting to observe the water contrast here: under certain lighting, the difference in color between the river estuary and the open ocean is clearly visible.

This place is a real paradise for photography enthusiasts. Strong winds, waves crashing against the rocks, and the endless sea horizon create ideal conditions for dramatic shots. Small photo sessions are often held near the ancient anchor installed here, and tech lovers use this open space for drone flights to capture the curve of the peninsula from above.

In the evening, the atmosphere of the cape changes, turning into a romantic meeting spot. Tourists and locals alike come here to see the sun off and enjoy the sunset in a peaceful setting. You can simply settle on the rocks, have a small open-air picnic, and listen to the sound of the surf, feeling a complete sense of unity with the elements.

Punta de las Salinas is located at the southern tip of the peninsula, and getting here from the center of Punta del Este is easy. If you are traveling by car, simply follow the waterfront south—the drive takes about 5–10 minutes (covering a distance of approximately 5–7 km), and there are parking spaces available near the attraction.

For those who prefer public transport, there are regular buses from Montevideo to the Punta del Este terminal. From the bus station to the cape, you can take a taxi or enjoy a pleasant walk while taking in the sea breeze. Renting bicycles is also a popular option among tourists, allowing you to explore the entire peninsula at a comfortable pace.

The walking route along the coast is considered one of the most scenic in the city. However, keep in mind that strong winds often blow at the cape itself, so it is worth bringing appropriate clothing, even if it seems calm in the city center.

The name Punta de las Salinas dates back to the 19th century and is linked to the region's first commercial activity—salt extraction from seawater. In those days, salt production was a key industry that led to the first permanent settlements on the peninsula. In the middle of the century, the German entrepreneur Luis Bummester ran a successful business here.

The history of these lands began much earlier: in 1516, the Spanish navigator Juan Díaz de Solís discovered this coast, giving it the poetic name Puerto de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria. During the colonial era, the cape's strategic position led authorities to build defensive structures here, such as the San Fernando battery, which protected the entrance to the bay.

Interestingly, in 1843, the entire peninsula, along with the salt works, was purchased by the Lafone brothers for just 4,500 pesos. It wasn't until 1907 that the settlement officially received city status. Today, only the name remains as a reminder of its industrial past, and the cape itself has become a major geographical symbol of the country.

To leisurely enjoy the views and soak up the atmosphere of the place, 1–2 hours is usually sufficient. This is enough time to walk to the concrete marker on the rocks, take souvenir photos by the symbolic anchor, and simply watch the waves of the ocean and river meet.

Many tourists prefer to combine a visit to Punta de las Salinas with a full walk around the peninsula or a guided city tour. If you plan to have a small picnic or watch the sunset here, it is worth allowing a bit more time, as the evening landscapes are particularly captivating.

Since Punta de las Salinas is a natural site located in an open area, it is accessible for visiting 24 hours a day, seven days a week. There are no gates or fences, so you can come here at dawn or late in the evening.

Nevertheless, for the most comfortable viewing and safety when moving across the rocks, it is recommended to plan your visit during daylight hours. If you are interested in additional tourist services nearby, you can always check the latest information on the official city website.

Punta del Este is a city where every corner is steeped in a resort atmosphere and history. A walk from the southernmost point allows you to easily reach many interesting locations within walking distance.

Exploring the surrounding area will help you better feel the character of this peninsula: from quiet memorial sites to modern amusement parks and cultural centers. Below are the nearby attractions to include in your itinerary.