Laguna Garzón


Laguna José Ignacio is a body of water located between Maldonado Department and Rocha Department, Uruguay. A sandbank separates it from the Atlantic Ocean. The nearest famous seaside resort is José Ignacio.

History

This coastal lagoon was previously served by a small 2-vehicle ferry that required daylight and good weather to operate; in December 2015, the unique circular Laguna Garzón Bridge on Route 10 was opened to vehicular traffic, providing a crossing for pedestrians and up to approximately 1,000 vehicles a day.

Environment

The lagoon has been designated part of the National System of Protected Areas in Uruguay. It is a birdwatching site. It has been designated an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International because it supports a significant population of wintering buff-breasted sandpipers.