📖 About Salto

Salto is the second-largest city in Uruguay, located on the Uruguay River across from Concordia, Argentina. With approximately 105,000 residents, this northwestern city is known for its citrus production (especially oranges), thermal hot springs, and the massive Salto Grande hydroelectric dam.

The city serves as Uruguay's gateway to Argentina via the Salto Grande bridge. Thermal tourism has developed around the natural hot springs—Termas de Daymán and Termas de Arapey attract visitors seeking wellness. Salto represents Uruguay's dynamic interior—citrus groves, thermal waters, and river border character.

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💼 Economy & Culture

Salto's economy combines agriculture, energy, and tourism. Citrus production—oranges, tangerines, lemons—is major; the region produces most of Uruguay's citrus. The Salto Grande dam generates electricity for both Uruguay and Argentina. Thermal tourism brings visitors year-round. Commerce serves the regional population and cross-border trade with Argentina.

Uruguayan culture is relaxed and welcoming—Spanish is spoken in characteristic Rioplatense style. Catholicism predominates though Uruguay is notably secular. Candombe drums echo African heritage. Food features asado (barbecue), chivito sandwiches, and citrus-influenced dishes. Mate drinking is constant. The culture is authentically Uruguayan—friendly, cultured, and connected to both land and water.

📜 History

Indigenous peoples inhabited the region before Spanish arrival. The city was founded in 1817 during the independence struggles. River commerce and agriculture drove development. Citrus cultivation began in the late 19th century and became the defining industry.

The Salto Grande dam, jointly built with Argentina (completed 1979), transformed the region—controlling floods, generating electricity, and creating a reservoir. Thermal tourism developed from the 1990s. Today Salto thrives as Uruguay's second city—citrus capital, thermal destination, and river gateway connecting Uruguay and Argentina.