Uruguay's Hidden Gem Has Reopened

Blue Wells (Pozos Azules)

They are located near the city of Lavalleja, in the Minas area. This is a group of natural pools with crystal-clear water, surrounded by picturesque mountains. Getting there is not easy, which makes the trip a real adventure. The place has an almost magical atmosphere, with the water standing out vividly against the greenery. Ideal for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle and swim in an unusual natural setting.

Uruguay's Secret Pearl Reopened

Pozos Azules have been closed to the public for many years, and this magical place has only recently become accessible again. This is all thanks to the initiative of Red Ánimas, a community of enthusiasts from Pan de Azúcar who organize ecological walks and excursions around the region.

They teamed up with Ernesto Toledo, the owner of the land on which the wells are located. He had long dreamed that people would be able to visit the place again—but in an orderly way, without chaos or destruction.

“Every weekend, dozens of people would drive up to my place looking for the road to the wells. It was like a pilgrimage!” Ernesto recalls.

An organized trail now leads to the site, and it can only be accessed as part of a Red Ánimas tour. This helps preserve nature and avoid unregulated tourism.

Back to His Roots

Ernesto was born in Montevideo, but spent every summer in the mountains with his grandmother. Later, when the opportunity arose, he bought a plot in Sierra de las Ánimas and moved there permanently, giving up his house by the sea.

Since then, he has worked to restore natural trails and preserve the region’s unique flora. The local forests have changed greatly: the fields were once regularly burned, but now vegetation has grown naturally, turning the slopes into a true miniature forest.

"Now the place has become truly magical," he says.

Mirrors of the sky in the mountains

Pozos Azules are natural pools where the sky is reflected in smooth, turquoise water. But they are not the only thing that makes the hike unforgettable: the entire route to them is an adventure.

Red Ánimas guides talk about every herb and every flower, reveal hidden details of the landscape, and convey their love for the place. Even if there were no wells, the walk would be worth it—but they do exist. And they are beautiful.

Beauty through the eyes of a daughter

The photographs accompanying the story were taken by Marina Toledo, Ernesto’s daughter. She is a professional photographer specializing in newborn photography and has beautifully captured the atmosphere of the place.

In her photographs, Pozos are shown in all their glory after the rainy season, when the water is particularly abundant and everything looks especially magical.

How to Get There

The wells are on private property and can only be reached as part of an organized tour. This requirement helps preserve the fragile ecosystem and maintain order.

Red Ánimas regularly publish tour dates.You can contact them by phone or email.

Accommodation

• Estancia: a country ranch for the whole group - for those who want privacy and complete immersion in nature.
• Cabañas: modern cabins are convenient for everyone: families, couples, friends.

Services

• Accommodation in cabins on the ranch, surrounded by peace and greenery near the natural pools.
• The opportunity to take sunrise and evening walks on foot, horseback, or by bicycle.
• Complete autonomy: explore independently or take guided excursions to Pozos Azules.

Where: Nueva Carrara, dep. Maldonado ISite pozosazules.uy