Isla de Lobos

Isla de Lobos lies about eight kilometres off Punta del Este, a bare rock carrying the largest colony of South American sea lions and fur seals in the western hemisphere, about a quarter of a million animals in the count of 2005. Its lighthouse, first lit in 1858 and rebuilt in 1906, rises 59 metres above the sea. The island is a protected reserve and landing is not permitted; boats circle it.

What's there

• The sea lion colony - one of the largest South American sea lion breeding sites.
• The fur seals - the second species sharing the rock in large numbers.
• The 1906 lighthouse - 59 metres above the sea on the bare island.
• The boat circuit - trips that circle the island without landing.

When to go

December to March is when trips run regularly. Breeding season peaks in December and January. Swell frequently cancels crossings.

What to expect

Landing is prohibited and the visit is a boat circuit only. The crossing is exposed and rough; seasickness is common. Trips are cancelled often in wind.

Nearby

Punta del Este is northwest, and Isla Gorriti is beyond it.

Key facts