If you love wildlife and seeing animals in their own habitat, this is the right place for you. In this case, we are still in Patagonia, but on the Atlantic Ocean side.
Valdés Peninsula is a protected natural area located in the province of Chubut. With a landscape of steppe, plateaus and plains, Puerto Madryn is the closest city to this wonderful paradise.
Valdés Peninsula is one of the World Heritage Sites declared by UNESCO in Argentina.
It hosts the most important population of southern right whales, since its calm waters make it the ideal place for the birth of calves. So, whale watching is possible between July and November approximately, departing from Puerto Pirámides, a small town an hour away from Puerto Madryn.
Interestingly enough, you can listen to the whale sound as you walk along the coast. Yes, as you go for a stroll!
Visiting the sea lions is also a unique experience. They can be seen from a viewpoint from the coast or taking a boat-tour, where –in some cases- you can swim with them. They are on the peninsula almost all year round. Unbelievable!
Do you want more wildlife? Then penguins are the right option!. Present in different natural reserves, just a couple of hours away from Puerto Madryn, they live there from September to March, that is to say: they avoid autumn/winter months in the area. It is possible to admire these lovely animals taking care of their eggs and the newborns.