Plizio Visual Lab
Salus Nature Reserve
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Animal habitat
Weather…
Water temperature…
The Salus Nature Reserve, located near Minas in the Lavalleja Department, is a private protected area managed by the Salus Company, a national beverage producer. Established in 1912, the reserve was originally created to safeguard the water source of the Serrano stream, which is crucial for the company's mineral water production. Spanning approximately 1,300 hectares, the reserve features a diverse landscape of hills, valleys, and native forests. It serves as an important refuge for regional biodiversity, hosting over 1,200 species of flora and fauna. One of its most notable landmarks is the 'Fuente del Puma' (Puma's Spring), the legendary source of the water. The reserve plays a significant role in environmental education in Uruguay, offering guided tours that emphasize the importance of water conservation and the preservation of native ecosystems. The flora includes the pink lapacho tree (Handroanthus impetiginosus), known for its lively blossoms.
Explore on the map
How well do you know Uruguay?
Find cities, landscapes and regions in 10 varied challenges on the interactive map.
Start the map quiz
10 challenges
Your journey, your memory
A postcard from Salus Nature Reserve
Turn your own photo into a personal postcard with a local stamp. Free and no sign-up required.
Create a postcard- Location: Uruguay
- Highlights: Cerro Alto · Cerro Blanco · Cerro de Soria
- Nearby: Villa Serrana (33 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 23 | 21 | 17 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 16 | 19 | 22 |
| Rain mm | 97 | 109 | 123 | 103 | 90 | 99 | 95 | 102 | 100 | 106 | 92 | 89 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
Spring and summer from October to March provide the most pleasant temperatures and highest animal activity in the forests. During this time, many plants bloom and attract insects, which in turn draw birds and other animals.
Best time of day
Early morning right after sunrise is the best time to observe birds and mammals. Late afternoon before sunset also often yields good sightings.
Etiquette
Stay on marked trails to avoid damaging the sensitive vegetation and habitat. Feeding wild animals is strictly prohibited as it disrupts their natural behavior.
What to bring
Sturdy footwear is essential due to uneven forest floors and potentially slippery surfaces. Bring binoculars and a camera to capture the diverse wildlife.
Getting there
The reserve is about 30 kilometers north of Minas de Corrales and is accessible via a private road. Access is only by prior appointment - contact the management for details.
What to expect
Animals in this private reserve are not used to humans and are often shy. Spend quiet time in one spot and wait - residents often only appear after a while.
Geography
Facts
- The reserve was established in the year 1912.
- It covers an area of 1,300 hectares.
- The water source is known as the 'Fuente del Puma'.
- It is home to over 1,200 registered species.
- Managed by the Salus Company, a beverage producer.
- It is located in the Lavalleja Department, near the city of Minas.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
Motorhome dimensions
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Salus Nature Reserve (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What can you experience at the Salus Nature Reserve?
It has beautiful hiking trails through native forests and springs.
Is there an entry fee?
Access is often free or available for a small fee supporting nature conservation.
Is the reserve child-friendly?
Yes, the trails are mostly easy to walk and educational for young nature explorers.
Can I have a picnic there?
There are designated areas where picnics are permitted and welcomed.
When is the best time to visit?
Especially in spring and autumn, the weather is handy for hiking.
Salus Nature Reserve: where is it located?
Salus Nature Reserve is located in Uruguay.
Salus Nature Reserve: what is there to see?
Highlights include Cerro Alto, Cerro Blanco, Cerro de Soria.
Salus Nature Reserve: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
Salus Nature Reserve: why is it worth visiting?
The Salus Nature Reserve, located near Minas in the Lavalleja Department, is a private protected area managed by the Salus Company, a national beverage producer.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in South America
More places in Uruguay →
Nearby cities
🗺️
Minas
Minas is the capital city of the LA department in Uruguay and the administrative center of the region.
José Pedro Varela
José Pedro Varela is an important city in the LA department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Villa Serrana
A picturesque European-style village nestled in the hills of Lavalleja, known for its tranquility and architecture.
Casupá
Casupá is an important city in the FD department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Pan de Azúcar
Pan de Azúcar is an important city in the MA department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
La Floresta
La Floresta is one of the oldest and most elegant resorts on the Costa de Oro, defined by its pine forests and white sandy beaches.
Piriápolis
Piriápolis is an important city in the MA department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
San Jacinto
San Jacinto is an important city in the CA department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Atlantida
Atlantida is an important city in the CA department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
Aiguá
Aiguá is an important city in the MA department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
🗺️
San Ramón
San Ramón is an important city in the CA department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.
🗺️
Maldonado
Maldonado is the capital city of the MA department in Uruguay and the administrative center of the region.
History & landmarks
Piria's Castle
The former residence of Francisco Piria, the founder of the coastal city of Piriápolis.
Church of Christ the Worker
An architecturally unique brick church in Estación Atlántida, designed by Eladio Dieste.
Casapueblo
An impressive structure built by artist Carlos Páez Vilaró, which is now a museum and hotel.
Nature
More places
Salus Bottling Plant
The main production facility for Uruguay's most famous mineral water brand in the Sierras de Minas.
UTE-Antel Holiday Park
A recreation complex in the Minas mountains featuring numerous leisure activities and children's play areas.
Minas Cement Plant (ANCAP)
A state-owned cement factory utilizing the limestone wealth of the Lavalleja region.
Cerro Arequita
An impressive volcanic rock formation known for its caves and the surrounding ombú forest.
Salto del Penitente Nature Park
An adventure park around a waterfall featuring ziplines, horseback riding, and nature exploration for the whole family.
🗺️
Cerro Áspero
A rough, rocky hill near the city of Minas.
Cerro de las Ánimas
The second highest point in Uruguay, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
🗺️
Sierra de las Ánimas
A mountain range of volcanic origin with diverse flora and fauna.