Cerro de las Ánimas
Mountain Uruguay's highest natural point, rocky hill summit
Cerro de las Ánimas is Uruguay’s highest point in the Maldonado hills; hikers visit for short climbs, panoramic countryside views and rural gaucho landscapes.
Cerro de las Ánimas is a prominent hill in the Maldonado Department of southeastern Uruguay and is part of the local Sierra de las Ánimas range. It rises to roughly 501 metres above sea level and is ranked among the country’s highest elevations.
The summit and surrounding slopes are used for hiking and offer wide views across rolling hill country typical of this part of Uruguay. Trails to the top are unpaved and the area is largely rural, with livestock grazing and small forestry patches on the lower slopes.
The hill lies inland in Maldonado Department, within the interior hill country of southeastern Uruguay, and is accessible by road from nearby towns in the department.
- Elevation and views: At about 501 metres above sea level it is one of Uruguay's highest points and is popular with hikers seeking panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
How to Get to Cerro de las Ánimas #
Cerro de las Ánimas is outside Punta del Este/Maldonado. Access is typically by car from Maldonado city (approx. 20-40 minutes depending on specific trailhead). Local signage and maps at tourist offices indicate trailheads and parking.
Tips for Visiting Cerro de las Ánimas #
- Hike early in the morning: fog can roll in later and obscure views from the summit.
- Local trails are unshaded in parts; sun protection and sturdy footwear help on steeper sections.
- Combine the hike with a visit to the surrounding Maldonado hills for varied scenery and coastal glimpses.
Best Time to Visit Cerro de las Ánimas #
Pleasant months are spring and autumn; summer offers the best chance for clear coastal panoramas but also stronger sun and heat.
Weather & Climate near Cerro de las Ánimas #
Cerro de las Ánimas's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with warm summers (peaking in January) and cold winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from 5°C to 25°C. Abundant rainfall (1144 mm/year), wettest in October, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is the warmest month with highs of 25°C and lows of 15°C. Regular rainfall (87 mm).
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February
February is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 15°C. Regular rainfall (93 mm).
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March
March is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 14°C. Regular rainfall (99 mm).
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April
April is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 11°C. Significant rainfall (101 mm).
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May
May is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 8°C. Regular rainfall (100 mm).
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June
June is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 6°C. Regular rainfall (100 mm).
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 13°C and lows of 5°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm).
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August
August is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Regular rainfall (99 mm).
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September
September is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 7°C. Significant rainfall (101 mm).
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October
October is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 9°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (103 mm).
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November
November is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 11°C. Regular rainfall (93 mm).
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December
December is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (76 mm).
