Centro de Visitantes Istmo Carlos Ameghino: Gateway to Península Valdés
Discover the wonders of Península Valdés: your journey starts here at the Istmo Carlos Ameghino Visitor Center.
The Centro de Visitantes Istmo Carlos Ameghino serves as the primary information hub and gateway to the Península Valdés, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its diverse wildlife. Located on the narrow isthmus connecting the peninsula to the mainland, the center provides visitors with valuable insights into the region's unique ecosystem, history, and conservation efforts.
A brief summary to Centro de Visitantes Istmo Carlos Ameghino (en remodelación)
- Ruta Provincial N° 2, Puerto Madryn, Chubut Province, U9121, AR
- +54280431-1311
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
- Thursday 8 am-8 pm
- Friday 8 am-8 pm
- Saturday 8 am-8 pm
- Sunday 8 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit the center early in your trip to get oriented and learn about the best spots for wildlife viewing based on the season.
- Take advantage of the observation tower for panoramic views of the isthmus and surrounding gulfs.
- Allow at least an hour to fully explore the exhibits and gather information from the staff.
Getting There
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Driving
From Puerto Madryn, take Ruta Provincial 2 towards Península Valdés. The Centro de Visitantes is located approximately 75 km from Puerto Madryn, just past the entrance to the Península Valdés protected area. The drive takes about an hour. Note that there is an entrance fee to the protected area of Península Valdés, which is required to access the Centro de Visitantes. As of July 2025, the entrance fee for foreign residents is ARS$30,000 per person. There is also a vehicle fee of ARS$1,700 per day.
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Public Transport
While public transport options to Península Valdés are limited, it is possible to take a bus from Puerto Madryn to Puerto Pirámides. The bus company Mar y Valle operates from the Puerto Madryn Bus Terminal. From Puerto Pirámides, you would need to arrange alternative transportation (taxi or pre-booked tour) to reach the Centro de Visitantes, which is located before Puerto Pirámides on the way into the Peninsula. Keep in mind that the bus only goes to Puerto Pirámides and not to other points within the peninsula. A full day tour including transportation from Puerto Madryn and the entrance fee to Península Valdés costs ARS$ 150,000 for adults.
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