Valdes Peninsula & Estancia San Lorenzo
-
Port
Puerto Madryn, Argentina
-
Activity Level
Moderate
-
Excursion Type
All
-
Wheelchair Accessible
No
-
Starting At
$279.95
-
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
-
Duration
Approximately 7 Hours
-
Meals Included
Meals not included
Board your transportation and cross the Carlos Ameghino Isthmus to the Valdes Peninsula. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, the peninsula is comprised of more than 1,500 square miles of headlands, saltwater lakes, depressions and rocky cliffs. It juts 30 miles into the Atlantic, and its shallow bays, gulfs and beaches are among the most diverse habitats in South America. More than half of the world's southern right whale population frequents the waters off the Valdes Peninsula, which are also home to major colonies of seals, sea lions and sea birds.
As you explore, you will stop briefly at the small Visitor Center to view exhibits on the flora and fauna of the Valdes Peninsula. Travel along the peninsula, enjoying views of its harsh, windswept landscape.
You will visit the Estancia San Lorenzo Natural Reserve -- a family-owned sheep station (farm) that stretches along the shores of the Golfo de San Matias and is home to an immense colony of nesting Magellan penguins. In fact, more than 600,000 nesting penguins inhabit this immense rookery. San Lorenzo is the largest continental Magellan penguin colony. Watch the penguins and keep an eye out for other wildlife, including rheas (flightless, ostrich-like birds), guanacos (related to alpacas and llamas) and elephant seals. You will view fossilized oysters and see the remains of a former sea lion colony.
Enjoy a light lunch at the farm before returning to the pier.
Notes:
Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed. Do not approach the birds. Penguins struggle to read warning signs and sometimes approach human visitors of their own accord; do not put your hands out towards them as, if startled, they can inflict very serious bite wounds. Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes. It is essential that you wear warm, layered clothing to fully enjoy and participate in this excursion; outer layer should be waterproof and windproof. Bring gloves, a warm hat and a scarf.