- Height above sea level: 1 m
- Dimensions: 17x13 km
- Area: 180 square meters. km
Laguna Negra is one of the most famous sights of Uruguay . This lake of lagoon type is located in the south-east of the country in the department of Rocha. It is also known as Laguna de Difuntos - "The Dead Lagoon". This name is explained by the natural features of the area: the wind raises peat dust from the soil surrounding the lake, and it settles on the surface of the water, giving the lagoon a rich black color.
What is remarkable about the lake?
The area of this natural formation is quite large and exceeds 100 square meters. km, so it is impossible to walk around it. In shallow water its depth does not exceed 5 m.
If you go to the east, then near the Laguna Negra, on the Atlantic coast, tourists will find the Santa Teresa National Park . To the west of the reservoir is the natural reserve of Colonia Don Bosco, which is a unique ecosystem where numerous fauna (snakes, bats-vampires and about 120 species of birds (egrets, storks, etc.) are abundant.
The shores of the lake itself, which are partly sandy, partly stone, are quite deserted and in some places are densely covered with trees, Spanish moss and shrubs. In the distance are visible rocks. On the surface of the water you can often see ducks. Local people go on boats to catch fish in the lake and for a fee take tourists with them. If you want privacy, rent a small boat yourself.
On the steep slopes that descend to the lake, caves with ancient tombs containing skeletons and pottery were discovered. Also there are small outlets where you can buy food and drinks.
How to get there?
You can reach the lake by highway number 9 - from the Camino del Indio it is 300 km away. Bus communication with the lake does not exist.