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Valdes Peninsula: Argentina's Wildlife Paradise

Discover Patagonia's wildlife paradise: whales, penguins, sea lions, and stunning landscapes await on the Valdes Peninsula.

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The Valdes Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Argentine Patagonia, is a haven for marine and land wildlife. Famous for its southern right whales, orcas, penguins, and elephant seals, this unique ecosystem offers incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature photography.

A brief summary to Valdes Peninsula

  • Chubut Province, AR

Local tips

  • The best time to visit for whale watching is between June and December, with peak season in August, September, and October.
  • Rent a car for maximum flexibility in exploring the peninsula, as public transport is limited.
  • Bring binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing, especially for observing animals from a distance.
  • Consider staying in Puerto Pirámides, the only town on the peninsula, for easy access to whale watching tours and wildlife viewing spots.
  • Be prepared for gravel roads and drive slowly, especially outside of the main paved road to Puerto Piramides.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Puerto Madryn, take Route 2 towards the Valdes Peninsula. The drive to the entrance of the protected area is approximately 56 km. After paying the entrance fee (ARS 30,000 for foreign residents) , continue on Route 2 to Puerto Pirámides, the only town on the peninsula, about 45 km further. This portion of the route is paved. To explore other areas of the peninsula, be prepared for driving on gravel roads. Note that a vehicle fee of ARS 1,700 is charged per day.

  • Public Transport

    From the Puerto Madryn bus terminal, Mar y Valle bus company offers services to Puerto Pirámides. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. Check the bus schedule in advance as the frequency varies depending on the season. Keep in mind that public transport only reaches Puerto Pirámides, limiting access to other parts of the peninsula.

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Discover more about Valdes Peninsula

The Valdes Peninsula, located in the Chubut Province of Argentina, is a bulbous peninsula extending into the Atlantic Ocean. This Patagonian gem, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, is renowned for its exceptional marine and terrestrial wildlife. The peninsula's unique geography, characterized by vast bays, gulfs, and a narrow isthmus connecting it to the mainland, creates ideal conditions for a diverse range of species. Wildlife enthusiasts flock to the Valdes Peninsula to witness the spectacle of southern right whales, which migrate to the area between June and December to mate and nurse their young. Whale watching tours from Puerto Pirámides offer close encounters with these gentle giants, while sightings from the shoreline are also possible. The peninsula is also famous for its orcas, particularly their unique hunting technique of intentionally stranding themselves to prey on sea lion pups. In addition to whales and orcas, the Valdes Peninsula is home to large colonies of Magellanic penguins, elephant seals, and South American sea lions. These animals can be observed at various points along the coastline, such as Punta Norte, Caleta Valdes and Estancia San Lorenzo, with opportunities to walk among the wildlife in some locations. On land, visitors may encounter guanacos, maras, armadillos, and various bird species, including rheas, flamingos and burrowing owls. The Valdes Peninsula offers a variety of activities for nature lovers, including wildlife drives, bird watching tours, and kayaking excursions. The Isthmus Ameghino Interpretation Center provides valuable information about the peninsula's flora and fauna, helping visitors plan their exploration. Staying at one of the estancias (ranches) on the peninsula offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the Patagonian landscape and observe wildlife in a more secluded setting.

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