Puerto Madryn Packages/Deals & Travel Agents Near Me

Puerto Madryn is a quickly growing tourist destination that serves as the gateway to Valdes Peninsula, a nearby wildlife sanctuary. The city maintains beautiful beaches, but the real delight is June-November, when whales migrate, often coming close enough to be seen from the shore. It is a good base for visitors who balk at the idea of staying in the tiny village of Puerto Piramides out on the peninsula.

A small yet active city, its main industry is fishing everything from prawns to cod. Hotel and restaurant options are slowly yet surely on the increase, catering to visitors who stay here to go whale watching. Other water-related activities include kayaking and stand-up paddling, both popular due to to the bay's calm waters. Snorkeling with sea lions is another popular activity.

Valdes Peninsula—around 70 mi/100 km from Madryn—has UNESCO World Heritage status. Puerto Piramides is the only point from which to board boats for whale-watching expeditions. Boat trips last around 90 minutes and take passengers close to whales, often a mother with a curious one-ton baby calf by her side.

Wildlife spotters will also be keen to see orcas, penguins and elephant seals using Peninsula Valdes as a base, depending on the season. It is truly one of the finest places in the world for viewing maritime wildlife.

Location

Shore Excursions

The reason to come to Madryn is to undertake one of the whale-watching excursions that depart from Peninsula Valdes nature reserve. It takes around 90 minutes to reach the Peninsula and another 90 minutes for the expedition. Depending on the time of year, visitors might be able to add orca- or penguin-watching to their itinerary, which also take place on the Peninsula.

Whale excursions. Some of the world's largest mammals come to this area to either procreate or raise offspring for six months of the year. Since the whales are gentle and curious, any excursion will allow visitors to get relatively close. June-November.

Sea lion colony. Around 3 mi/5 km north of Puerto Piramides, a short trek to this colony is best made in January when there is plenty of action. January.

Isla de los Pajaros. Approximately 16 mi/22 km from the reserve's entrance, bird spotters will be in their element. The nesting area can only be accessed by scientists, but a good pair of binoculars can allow you a glimpse of cormorants, egrets and waders. September-March.