Chuy

Chuy is a unique city in the Rocha Department of far-eastern Uruguay, located right on the border with Brazil. The city is divided from its Brazilian counterpart, Chuí, by a main street named Avenida Internacional. This international avenue serves as the shared border, with one side being Uruguayan and the other Brazilian, creating a deeply integrated bi-national community. Founded in the late 19th century, Chuy grew due to its strategic location as a frontier town. The city's economy is heavily reliant on cross-border commerce, with many duty-free shops attracting Brazilian shoppers. This trade is the lifeblood of the city, creating a bustling commercial atmosphere. Culturally, Chuy is a blend of Uruguayan and Brazilian influences, with both Spanish and Portuguese widely spoken. The city serves as a major entry and exit point between the two countries and is the terminus of Uruguay's National Route 9. Nearby are important ecological sites like the Santa Teresa National Park and the Merín Lagoon. Chuy's unique position as a divided city makes it a fascinating example of cross-border cooperation and cultural exchange.

Nearby cities

Rocha

Rocha is the capital city of the RO department in Uruguay and the administrative center of the region.

Castillos

Castillos is an important city in the RO department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.

Lascano

Lascano is an important city in the RO department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.

La Paloma

La Paloma is an important city in the RO department of Uruguay, known for its role in the regional economy.

La Pedrera

A chic seaside resort on a rocky peninsula, known for its excellent surfing conditions and winter whale watching.

La Coronilla

La Coronilla is a peaceful seaside resort in Rocha, famous for its wide sandy beaches and sea turtle conservation efforts.

Punta del Diablo

A picturesque fishing village with colorful wooden cabins and a relaxed bohemian atmosphere on the wild Atlantic coast.

Aguas Dulces

Aguas Dulces is a picturesque fishing village in Rocha, famous for its rustic beachfront houses and laid-back, bohemian vibe.

Valizas

Valizas is a legendary bohemian coastal village, famous for its massive sand dunes and its simple, nature-oriented lifestyle.

History & landmarks

Fort of San Miguel

A historic military fort on the border with Brazil reflecting the colonial past.

Fortress of Santa Teresa

An impressive colonial fortress near the coast, surrounded by a large national park.

Cabo Polonio Lighthouse

A historic lighthouse in the Cabo Polonio National Park, surrounded by a large sea lion colony.

Nature

Cebollatí River

One of the longest rivers in Uruguay, flowing into the Laguna Merín.

Laguna de Castillos

A shallow lake surrounded by palm forests, serving as an important refuge for migratory birds.

Laguna Merín

A large freshwater lake on the border between Brazil and eastern Uruguay.

Laguna de Rocha

A protected body of water near the Atlantic, serving as a significant habitat for many bird species.

More places

Bañados del Este Wetlands

A vast swamp and lagoon system acting as a biosphere reserve protecting countless migratory birds.

Fortress of Santa Teresa

An impressive military fortress in the Rocha Department, started by the Portuguese in 1762.

Karumbé Sea Turtle Center

A conservation initiative at Cerro Verde that rescues and rehabilitates injured sea turtles.

Cabo Polonio National Park (Sea Lions)

This coastal area hosts one of the world's largest colonies of sea lions in the wild.

Laguna de Castillos Protected Area

Surrounded by a rare Ombu forest, this lagoon is a haven for numerous capybaras and water birds.

Cerro de la Buena Vista

A large sand dune offering a magnificent view over Cabo Polonio.

Port of La Paloma

An Atlantic port used for fishing, timber exports, and maritime tourism.

Laguna de Rocha Bird Sanctuary

A shallow coastal lagoon serving as a crucial habitat for black-necked swans and flamingos.