Captivating wildlife

The Valdes Peninsula is a sanctuary for marine wildlife and hosts a vital breeding ground for the endangered southern right whales from August to mid-December.

Peninsula Valdés is one of South America’s most remarkable wildlife destinations. Located on Argentina’s Atlantic coast, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven for marine life, offering visitors the chance to see southern right whales (from June to December), orcas, sea lions, elephant seals, and vast colonies of Magellanic penguins. On land, you may also spot guanacos, armadillos and Patagonian foxes roaming the steppe.

What makes Peninsula Valdés so special is the proximity of the wildlife-whale-watching boats depart from Puerto Pirámides, often bringing you within metres of these ocean giants, while beaches like Punta Norte and Caleta Valdés are home to thousands of seals and sea lions. The peninsula is also one of the few places on Earth where orcas can be seen intentionally beaching themselves to hunt.

Accessible via the coastal city of Puerto Madryn, the region is ideal for travellers seeking a slower pace of travel with rich rewards. Whether you’re visiting as part of a longer Patagonia itinerary or looking for a stand-alone nature trip, holidays to Peninsula Valdés offer some of the most dramatic and intimate wildlife encounters in Argentina.