Isla de Flores, Island in Canelones Department, Uruguay
Isla de Flores is an island in Rio de la Plata off the coast of Canelones Department that stretches considerably in length but remains narrow from side to side. It features a working lighthouse and several historic structures from its time as a quarantine facility.
Portuguese authorities built the lighthouse in the early 19th century to improve navigation in these waters. The island later became a quarantine station in the late 1800s to examine arriving ships and their passengers.
The island served as a gateway for people arriving by ship, with buildings designed to care for those who needed help after their journey. Today, visitors can see how this place played a practical role in welcoming newcomers to the country.
The island operates as a protected national park and historical monument, so visitors should follow the regulations set for its preservation. Check tide and weather conditions before planning a visit, as these factors affect accessibility to the site.
Depending on tide and wind conditions, the island can temporarily separate into three distinct parts, creating a changing geography. This natural transformation means each visit can reveal a different physical layout.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
