UY
Cabo Polonio
An off-grid fishing village among dunes, with a lighthouse and a sea lion colony
An off-grid fishing village among dunes, with a lighthouse and a sea lion colony
The lighthouse, completed in 1881, can usually be climbed for views over the village, dunes and islands. Its beam sweeps the village at night.
Photo: Julio Clavijo Ferraro, CC BY-SA 4.0
A colony of South American sea lions and fur seals lives on the rocks below the lighthouse and on nearby islands.
Keep your distance; they can bite.
Photo: Okta30, CC BY-SA 4.0
Simple huts are scattered across the headland without streets. A few hostels, shops and restaurants open in summer.
Photo: Rubedu, CC BY-SA 3.0
Large moving dunes separate the village from the highway. You can walk across them in about 1.5–2 hours instead of taking the truck.
Photo: Luciacasanovascasso, CC BY-SA 3.0
Try fresh fish, buñuelos de algas (seaweed fritters) and empanadas from beach kiosks.
Supplies are limited and expensive; bring cash and some food.
Buses run along Route 10 to the park entrance terminal from Montevideo (about 4–5 hours) and Punta del Este. From there, authorised 4×4 trucks cross the dunes in about 20–30 minutes.
Private cars are not allowed into the village; park at the terminal.
Uruguay uses the peso (UYU). It is one of South America’s more expensive countries; US dollars are often accepted in tourist areas.
Summer prices are much higher.
Slow down and switch off.
Ride the dune truck in, climb the lighthouse and watch the sea lions.
Walk the beaches and dunes, then stargaze at night.
Bring a torch or headlamp; nights are very dark.
Bring enough cash; card payment and ATMs are limited.
January is very busy; many places close in winter.
Charging is limited; bring a power bank.
Quick answers for planning time in Cabo Polonio.
Take a bus to the park terminal on Route 10, then a 4×4 truck across the dunes.
Most houses have no mains power and use solar or candles.
No, park at the terminal and take the truck or walk.
Yes, on the rocks below the lighthouse.
December to March; January is busiest.
Planning a wider trip? Our Uruguay travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.