Peninsula Valdés is a nature reserve on the Atlantic coast of Chubut Province in Argentina, reached from Puerto Madryn. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it is best known for whale watching, particularly Southern Right Whales, which come close to the shore in the waters around the peninsula.
What you can see
- Southern Right Whales, the reserve's most celebrated visitors, seen from the coast and from boat trips
- Elephant seals, which gather along the peninsula's shores
- Sea lions, often resting on the rocks and beaches
- Penguins, part of the wildlife that makes the reserve a rewarding place for nature lovers
Planning your visit
The peninsula suits a full day or more, since the wildlife is spread across a large area and much of the appeal lies in slow, patient watching. Many visitors base themselves in Puerto Madryn, the town that serves as the gateway, and travel out to the reserve from there. For the latest information on visiting, you can call the reserve's contact line at +54 2965 451504.
Visitors who enjoy wildlife, coastal scenery and quiet landscapes will find Peninsula Valdés a memorable stop in Chubut Province. Its marine life is the main reason to come, and the surrounding coast gives the day a wide, open character.