Salto del Penitente

A picturesque 60-metre waterfall set in a private nature reserve amid the sierras of Lavalleja, popular for hiking, ziplining and horseback riding. The rustic lodge and trails make it a favourite rural getaway in the highlands.

Things to do

• Hike to the waterfall base — Follow the marked trail down through the sierra to stand beneath the 60-metre cascade and its natural pools.
• Zipline over the gorge — Glide on the canopy cable that stretches across the ravine for aerial views of the falls and surrounding hills.
• Horseback riding in the sierras — Take a guided cabalgata across the rolling Lavalleja hills alongside local gauchos.
• Rappel the rock faces — Descend the granite cliffs near the waterfall with equipped guides for an adrenaline challenge.
• Stay at the rustic lodge — Overnight in the on-site cabins to catch the dawn light on the sierra and starry night skies.
• Explore the nature reserve trails — Wander the private reserve's paths spotting native ceibo trees, birds and panoramic sierra viewpoints.
• Picnic by the natural pools — Relax on the rocks and cool off in the clear stream pools formed below the falls.

Food to try

• Asado criollo — Wood-fired Uruguayan barbecue of beef ribs and chorizo, often served at the lodge after a day of trekking.
• Chivito — Uruguay's iconic steak sandwich piled with ham, cheese, egg and salad, a hearty post-hike meal.
• Torta frita — Simple fried dough discs sold at rural stops, best enjoyed hot on a rainy sierra afternoon.
• Dulce de leche and homemade sweets — Regional Lavalleja preserves and dulce de leche desserts sold at nearby farms and roadside stands.
• Mate — The shared herbal infusion sipped from a gourd, an all-day social ritual you'll see locals carrying.

Local customs & good to know

• Bring cash — The reserve and nearby rural spots often don't take cards, so carry Uruguayan pesos for entry and food.
• Respect the private reserve rules — Stay on marked trails, pay the entrance fee and avoid littering as this is protected private land.
• Base yourself in Minas — The departmental capital about 30 km away offers services, lodging and access to Salto del Penitente.
• Wear proper footwear — Trails can be steep and slippery near the falls, so sturdy hiking shoes are recommended.

Nearby

• Minas — 20 km
• Villa Serrana — 21 km
• Cerro Arequita & Caves — 27 km
• Cerro Pan de Azúcar (Canelones & Eastern Río de la Plata) — 40 km