Valdes Peninsula

Dolphin & whale watching

Join a shore excursion to explore the biodiversity and stunning landscapes of Peninsula Valdes. Discover elephant seals, penguins, sea lions, and, with luck, even orcas. Experience the terrestrial wildlife and enjoy unparalleled panoramic views as you explore this natural gem. We’ll be waiting for you at the Port of Puerto Madryn to start our excursion to Península Valdés. Your first stop will be at the Istmo Carlos Ameghino Interpretation Center, where you’ll learn about the flora, fauna, geology, and historical events of the peninsula. From the panoramic viewpoint, enjoy impressive views of Golfo Nuevo, San José, and Isla de los Pájaros. Next, explore various trails and viewpoints that will allow you to get up close to the landscape and wildlife. Depending on the time of year, weather, and tides, visit points of interest such as Caleta Valdes, Punta Cantor, and Punta Norte. Here, be able to observe elephant seals, penguins, and sea lions, and have the option to enjoy lunch (at your own expense). In some seasons, you may even spot orcas in action. If time permits, also visit a nearby penguin colony or the sea lion reserve in Punta Norte. In addition to marine wildlife, have the chance to see terrestrial animals typical of the region, such as guanacos, maras, rheas, foxes, and armadillos, as well as two significant salt flats, the deepest depressions in South America. If conditions don’t allow for a visit to Punta Norte, head to Punta Delgada, in the southeastern tip of the peninsula, where you’ll find a historic lighthouse and an elephant seal colony. Finally, in the afternoon, return to the meeting point at the Port of Puerto Madryn, where your cruise ship will be waiting.

The tour begins early in the morning towards the Valdés Peninsula Protected Natural Area, declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco. After an hour of travel, you will arrive at the picturesque ecological village of Puerto Pirámides to embark and carry out the Regular Traditional Right Whale Watching between the months of June and November, or of South American Sea Lions and Cormorants between the months of December and March. Between April and mid-June no type of navigation is carried out. Lunch (not included) will be scheduled in Puerto Pirámides or Caleta Valdés. You will have time to tour the southern part of the Peninsula, crossing wide landscapes of grasslands and undulations, passing through the Salinas Grande and Chica, and outside Punta Delgada, which constitutes the southern end of the peninsula. At Punta Cantor you can admire the Atlantic coast and the fascinating geological formation known as Caleta Valdés. These beaches are usually inhabited, depending on the time of year, by southern elephant seals, the largest seals on the planet. Depending on the time of year and the availability of marine fauna, you can replace the southern area of ??Las Salinas and Caleta Valdes with Punta Norte. From there you will start your return making a stop at the Carlos Ameghino Interpretation Center, a compendium of the natural wealth of the peninsula. During this excursion you will have great chances to observe terrestrial wildlife, such as guanacos, rheas, foxes, maras, armadillos and skunks. Season: Land excursion All year. Whale watching on board mid-June to November. Nautical walk from December to the end of March. Between April and mid-June there will be no type of navigation.

This Protected Natural Area, declared “Mankind’s Natural Heritage”, has one of the most fascinating ecosystem in the entire world, Whales, Orcas, Sea Lions, Elephants Seals, Magellan Penguins, Maras, Guanacos, and Choiques live all in the same habitat. About 35 miles away from Puerto Madryn, we arrive to El Desempeño, main access to Peninsula Valdes, the first stop will be the interpretation center and from there we will head to Caleta Valdes, 59 miles away, and there you’ll enjoy the magnificent Elephant Seals and Penguins, and occasionally Orcas. And from there we return to Puerto Madryn, where we will finish our visit to this incredible Protected Natural Area to board the ship on time Length: 7 hours Includes: Vehicule with A/C, English Speaking Tour Guide and Box Lunch

Early in the morning, we'll depart from your hotel in Puerto Madryn towards the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Península Valdés Natural Protected Area. After an hour's journey, we'll arrive at the charming ecological village of Puerto Pirámides. Here, you have the option (not included) to embark on the Traditional Regular Whale Watching tour, available between Mid-June and Mid-December to witness the majestic Southern Right Whales. Lunch (not included) will be arranged in either Puerto Pirámides or Caleta Valdés. Following lunch, our journey continues through the southern part of the Peninsula, traversing vast grasslands and undulating landscapes, passing by the Salinas Grande and Chica, and beyond Punta Delgada, marking the southernmost point of the peninsula. We proceed towards Punta Cantor to admire the Atlantic coast and the intriguing geological formation known as Caleta Valdés. These beaches are often populated by Southern elephant seals, the largest seals on Earth, depending on the season. Depending on the time of year and marine wildlife activity, we may visit Punta Norte instead of the southern areas of Las Salinas and Caleta Valdés. On our return journey, we'll make a stop at the Carlos Ameghino Interpretation Center, showcasing the peninsula's natural wealth. Throughout the excursion, there are ample opportunities to observe terrestrial wildlife such as guanacos, choiques, foxes, maras, armadillos, and skunks. Optional Boat Ride: If you opt for the Whale Watching Navigation, Puerto Pirámides is the exclusive location within Península Valdés to experience this. The excursion starts with a coastal journey, offering views of sea lion colonies and cormorant habitats. We then venture further into the sea, encountering Southern Right Whales. Once we've met these majestic creatures, the boat will cut its engines, enveloping us in a serene silence interrupted only by the sounds of the sea and occasional bird calls. It's a truly unique experience, with the chance to see these magnificent animals up close if luck is on our side. The duration of the sailing is estimated to be 1.5 hours, subject to seasonal variations, weather conditions, and animal presence. For those who opt out of the boat ride, there's the opportunity to explore the picturesque town of Puerto Pirámides and its beaches. At the end of the excursion, you will be transferred back to your accommodation in Puerto Madryn. Hotel name is required to confirm the booking!

Embark on a captivating 6-hour long adventure from Piedrabuena Pier to explore the wonders of Peninsula Valdes. After presenting your entrance fees at the reserve's control point, get ready to meet three key points of natural splendor. We begin at the Ameghino Isthmus where there is a visitor's centre. On this place we immerse into the Peninsula Valdes biodiversity and history. A highlight awaits: an impressive Southern Right Whale skeleton is proudly exhibited in one of the rooms! We continue the exploration to Caleta Valdes, a sanctuary of awe-inspiring encounters. Here you will be able to observe the majestic presence of elephant seals, enjoy the playful antics of sea lions, and be charmed by a small colony of Magellanic penguins. Each moment creates lasting memories within the span of 6 hours. We meet the groups at Piedrabuena Pier and when the tour is done we return to the same point. We work with the ships schedules, so we will adapt the tour depart and return time according to it. This tour is available for cruise passengers only. If you are not on a cruise, but you are interested in taking this tour please contact us for further information. Not included: entrance fees/ tips

On this full-day tour you will discover the enchantments of the Valdes Peninsula. Traveling to Carlos Ameghino Isthmus, the narrow strip of land that connects the peninsula with the continent, you will explore the landscape and the flora and fauna of the area as well as enjoy the chance to spot some whales in their natural habitat. The first stop is at the Carlos Ameghino Interpretation Center, which offers information on the ecosystem of the Valdes Peninsula, the Patagonia land animals, the species of marine fauna surrounding the peninsula, the flora, and the history of the region. It is also possible to see a little history of the first settlers of the Valdes Peninsula. The next stop is at Puerto Piramides, the only village on the Valdes Peninsula and the only place for starting the marine fauna boat trips (not included). The beaches are surrounded by cliffs that resemble pyramids, hence its name. You will take a 2-hour stop in the village, in which time you can either sail the waters of the New Gulf or simply explore the enchantments of the village. Southern right whales inhabit the gulf from first days of June to first day of December. You will be able to get very close to these whales as they are curious and slow-moving animals, allowing you to observe their characteristic skin covered by callosities. From time to time the whales swim under the boat and you are able to observe their actions and hear their breathing. With a bit of luck they will offer the wonderful spectacle of breaching or at least a flap of the tail. (the boat trip is not included) From January to March, marine fauna watching boat trip(not included) From June to december, whales watching boat trip(not included) You will leave Puerto Piramides and continue on the excursion, passing by the Great Salt Lake and Small Salt Lake at 42 and 35 meters below sea level respectively. Depending on the hour and the cloudiness they appear with a pink coloration due to its chemical composition and the incidence of the solar light. Heading to the south-eastern end of the peninsula, you will arrive at the old naval station of Punta Delgada. By the west coast you will go to a new viewpoint where we can see more elephant seals. After a few kilometers you will travel to Caleta Valdes, an exceptional geologic formation consisting of a thin strip of land which runs parallel to the coast locking up a portion of sea. Connected through a small mouth to the surrounding sea, its calm waters, naturally isolated beaches, and steep cliffs make an excellent place for the elephant seals. About Punta Norte between the months of October and March, the migration of the fauna, where you can see the breeding elephant seals and sea lions. With high tide it is possible to see killer whales during the months of Feb, March, and April, or off the coast of Caleta Valdes during September, October, and November. You will then return to the city of Puerto Madryn. Whales watching only from june 15 to dec 15

This Natural Protected Area, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts one of the world's most fascinating ecosystems, inhabited by Whales, Orcas, Sea Lions, Elephant Seals, Magellanic Penguins, Maras, Guanacos, and Rheas. Access to the Península Valdés Protected Natural Area is located 56 km from Puerto Madryn. A further 45 km leads to Puerto Pirámides, where optional whale watching boat tours are available from June to December (not included in the fee), as well as nautical excursions in summer, including visits to the sea lion colony at Punta Pirámide (not included in the fee). From Puerto Pirámides, we head to Caleta Valdés, where Elephant Seals and some Magellanic Penguins can be observed from September to mid-April. We then proceed to Punta Norte, an important breeding colony for Sea Lions, Elephant Seals, and occasionally Orcas. The next stop is Estancia San Lorenzo, a traditional cattle ranch in the area where we can enjoy a typical Patagonian lamb barbecue (lunch not included). After lunch, we'll visit a remarkable breeding colony of Magellanic penguins, home to approximately 500,000 individuals, located 7 km from the ranch. The return trip is scheduled for around 7:00 pm in Puerto Madryn. Total Distance Covered: 400 km - 11 to 12 hours Season: All year round Whale Watching Boat Tour: From June to December - duration 1 ½ hours.

The Peninsula Valdes Whale Watching Excursion is a unique and fascinating experience that connects you with the rich biodiversity and breathtaking natural beauty of Patagonia. Don't miss the opportunity to live one of the most wonderful experiences Patagonia has to offer. Enjoy some of the most impressive landscapes of Patagonia. Combining education, adventure, and nature, this excursion offers a complete and unforgettable experience. Discover the Wonders of Peninsula Valdes Introduction to Peninsula Valdes Your adventure begins as you arrive at Peninsula Valdes, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. This protected nature reserve is one of the most important marine wildlife sanctuaries in the world, offering a rare opportunity to witness the remarkable biodiversity of Patagonia. Whale Watching Adventure Up-Close with Southern Right Whales Embark on a thrilling whale-watching tour, where you’ll have the chance to see Southern Right Whales up close. These magnificent creatures migrate to the waters off Peninsula Valdes each year to mate and give birth, making it one of the best places in the world for whale watching. From the deck of your boat, observe these gentle giants as they breach, tail-slap, and nurse their young, creating unforgettable memories. Expert Guides and Educational Insights Accompanying you on this excursion are knowledgeable guides who are experts in marine biology and local wildlife. They will provide fascinating insights into the behavior, biology, and conservation of the Southern Right Whales, enriching your understanding of these majestic animals and the ecosystem they inhabit. Learn about the efforts being made to protect these whales and their natural habitat. Explore the Rich Biodiversity Wildlife Encounters Beyond Whales Peninsula Valdes is not just about whales. The region is home to a variety of other wildlife, including sea lions, elephant seals, orcas, and numerous bird species. Your tour will include opportunities to observe these animals in their natural habitats, adding to the richness of your experience. Visit colonies of sea lions and elephant seals, watch as orcas hunt along the shoreline, and spot diverse birdlife from coastal cliffs. Stunning Landscapes Enjoy some of the most impressive landscapes of Patagonia. The rugged coastline, sweeping beaches, and windswept plains of Peninsula Valdes provide a stunning backdrop for your wildlife adventure. Take in the breathtaking scenery, from towering cliffs to tranquil bays, and experience the raw beauty of this remote and pristine environment.

This Natural Protected Area, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, possesses one of the most fascinating ecosystems in the world, inhabited by Whales, Orcas, Sea Lions, Elephant Seals, Magellanic Penguins, Maras, Guanacos, and Rheas. Located 56 km from Puerto Madryn is the entrance to the Península Valdés Protected Natural Area. About 45 km further is Puerto Pirámides, where it's possible to embark on whale watching tours from June to December (optional, not included in the fee), and nautical excursions in summer, visiting the sea lion colony at Punta Pirámide (optional, not included in the fee). From Puerto Pirámides, we head to Punta Delgada, about 75 km away, passing by the Salinas and arriving at the Elephant Seal lookout point where we'll observe them from the cliff (June to November). From there, we go to Caleta Valdés where we'll encounter Elephant Seals again and some Magellanic Penguins from September to mid-April. During the summer months, instead of visiting Punta Delgada, we head towards Punta Norte, an important breeding colony for Sea Lions, Elephant Seals, and occasionally Orcas. The return is scheduled for around 7:00 pm in Puerto Madryn. Total Distance Covered: 400 km - 11 to 12 hours Season: All year round Whale Watching Boat Tour: From June to December - duration 1 ½ hours.

The Valdes Peninsula excursion is a unique experience that combines nature, wildlife and stunning landscapes. This tour is designed especially for cruise ship passengers, with flexible schedules that adapt to the arrival of the ships. Below, I detail what is included and what you can expect: Description of the excursion Duration: Approximately 5 to 7 hours. Pick-up: It is done directly at the dock door, ensuring comfort and punctuality for travelers. Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicle to ensure a comfortable trip. Languages: Guides available in Spanish and another language (usually English). Main activities Exploring the Valdes Peninsula: A UNESCO World Heritage area, famous for its biodiversity and unique landscapes. Wildlife watching: During the tour, it is possible to observe animals such as sea lions, elephant seals, guanacos, choiques and, depending on the season, southern right whales (optional). Scenic stops: Strategic points are visited to enjoy panoramic views and take photographs of nature. Included services Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Coffee or tea for participants. Specialized tour guide who provides information about the fauna, flora and geography of the region. Optionals Whale watching: Available depending on the season (generally between June and December). Lunch: Can be included as part of the tour or purchased independently. Entrance to the reserve: This is an additional cost paid upon entering the protected area. Additional details The excursion is adapted for people with reduced mobility, including accessibility for wheelchairs and baby strollers. Service animals are allowed. Small groups, with a maximum of 20 people, to ensure a more personalized experience. Flexibility for cruise passengers The tour is designed to begin between 30 and 45 minutes after the cruise ship arrives, ensuring that passengers can participate without worries. Additionally, if the ship's schedule changes, the excursion can be rescheduled to accommodate the new arrival time. Recommendations Bring comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather, as conditions may vary. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture the most memorable moments. Make a reservation in advance, as this is a popular activity and places are limited. In short, this excursion is ideal for those who want to explore the natural beauty of the Valdés Peninsula, learn about its rich biodiversity, and enjoy an unforgettable experience in contact with nature.