Best of Puerto Madryn: Punta Tombo Reserve
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Puerto
Puerto Madryn, Argentina
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Nivel de actividad
Moderate
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Tipo de excursión
Local Sightseeing,14,All
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Accesible para personas en silla de ruedas
No
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A partir de
$209
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Edad mínima
Information Not Currently Available
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Duración
Approximately 7½ Hours
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Comidas incluidas
Meals included
Puerto Madryn is the stepping-off point for two of Argentina's most exciting Natural Parks — the Valdes Peninsula and Punta Tombo.
The Punta Tombo Nature Reserve, which you will visit today, is world-renowned as perhaps the finest spot from which to view Magellan penguins. It is located 111 miles from the city of Puerto Madryn and will afford you the truly unusual experience of observing these penguins at close range in their natural habitat. It is estimated that more than 450,000 Magellan penguins come here each year and, from November on, it is possible to also see baby penguins leaving their nests.
As you quietly stroll along the footpath through the colony, the lovable and endearing penguins will not be afraid of you. They are used to having visitors, and the visitor code of conduct, explained by your guide, ensures minimal disturbance to the birds. You are not allowed to approach the birds directly, but the penguins struggle to read warning signs and sometimes approach human visitors of their own accord. You will learn about how Magellan penguins mate for life — the female lays two eggs each year, which the male and female then brood and raise together.
Notes:
A boxed lunch is included. Travel time to Punta Tombo is approximately 2½ hours each way. The road is unpaved and dusty in places. Due to Puerto Madryn's remote location, the standard of transportation used may be more basic than that in some other ports. Restrooms are available only at the rookery entrance and at the gas station during the ride. This tour is available only on select sailings due to time in port. Dress warmly in layers with a windproof and waterproof outer layer; bring a warm hat, gloves and a scarf. Flash photography is not allowed. Although the penguins are not fearful of humans, do not approach them, as they can inflict serious bite wounds when startled. Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed.