Rocha is also discovered at night.
In 2026, Rocha took a pioneering step in Uruguay by declaring its Dark Skies Departmental Intangible Natural and Cultural Heritage and approving a Dark Skies Protection Ordinance aimed at preserving the quality of the night sky and preventing light pollution.
This recognition makes Rocha’s sky a new component of its heritage while also opening up significant opportunities for the development of astrotourism and astrophotography.
In a territory where ocean, lagoons, wetlands, forests, countryside and natural areas coexist, looking up at the starry sky reveals another dimension of the landscape. A night in Rocha can become an experience that combines nature, astronomy, photography, gastronomy, culture and relaxation.
Protecting dark skies also encourages the creation of new tourism experiences: stargazing, astronomical experiences, night photography, educational and scientific activities, and specialized products for visitors interested in the sky and nature.
Rocha already has pioneers who have been developing these experiences. Institutional protection of its skies now provides an opportunity to give this activity new momentum and position the department as a destination for those seeking to experience an authentic night sky.
Because protecting the sky also means protecting the landscape, biodiversity and an experience that is becoming increasingly difficult to find.
In Rocha, when night falls, another journey begins: discovering the land beneath the stars.
