Whale Watching in Puerto Madryn Argentina: All You Need to Know
I had the pleasure of visiting Puerto Madryn recently as part of my cruise to Antarctica. It’s a cute town to visit with plenty of opportunities to watch wildlife. Whale watching in Puerto Madryn is just one of the many amazing things you can do and this post will give you all you need to know about how to see these incredible creatures.
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Types of Whales You Can See in Puerto Madryn
There are two whales that can be found in the Puerto Madryn area, the southern right whale, and the orca whale. This area is one of the main breeding and calving areas for southern right whales as they come to the area to give birth and nurse their young in the warmer waters of Golfo Nuevo.
Additionally, orcas can be seen hunting sea lions and seals in the waters around Puerto Madryn throughout the year.
Southern Right Whale
Southern right whales are a species of large baleen whale that inhabit the southern hemisphere. They are known for their massive size, reaching lengths of up to 18 meters (60 feet) and weighing up to 80 tons (72 metric tons).
They also have a distinctive appearance, with a large head, stocky body, and no dorsal fin. You can easily identify them as they are black or dark gray in color, with white patches on their bellies and around their eyes.
Southern right whales are known for their acrobatic displays, such as breaching (jumping out of the water) and tail slapping. They are also social animals and are often seen in groups or “surface active groups,” where they engage in playful behaviors like rolling, headstands, and waving their flippers in the air.
Unfortunately, they were heavily hunted for their oil and blubber in the 19th and early 20th centuries, leading to a severe decline in their populations. They were considered the “right whale” to catch as they moved slow and floated to the top of the water when killed. Today, they are protected under international law, and their populations are slowly recovering.
Orca Whales
Orcas, also known as killer whales, are a species of toothed whale that inhabit oceans all around the world. They are the largest member of the dolphin family and can grow up to 9 meters (30 feet) in length and weigh up to 6 metric tons.
In addition, they are easily recognizable by their black and white markings, which are unique to each individual. They have a sleek, streamlined body, a large dorsal fin on their back, and powerful tail flukes that they use to swim and maneuver in the water.
Orcas are apex predators, which means they are at the top of the food chain in their ecosystem. They are known for their intelligence, social behavior, and complex communication systems.
These whales live in family groups called pods, which can contain up to 40 individuals. These pods have their own unique dialects and social structure, and they work together to hunt and raise their young.
Orcas are opportunistic predators and will eat a variety of prey, including fish, squid, seals, sea lions, and even other whales. They use a variety of hunting techniques, such as herding schools of fish or chasing down larger prey in coordinated attacks. However, despite their name, orcas are not typically a threat to humans in the wild.
Where Can I Go Whale Watching in Puerto Madryn?
The Valdez Peninsula is one of the best places for whale watching near Puerto Madryn. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to one of the largest populations of southern right whales in the world. You can take a boat tour from Puerto Piramides, a small town on the peninsula, to observe these whales up close.
Furthermore, you may see orca whales from the shoreline. Sometimes, they even try to beach themselves in an attempt to hunt seals and sea lions.
When Can I See Whales in Puerto Madryn?
The best time to see whales in Puerto Madryn is between June and mid-December. During this period, southern right whales and orcas can be spotted off the coast of Puerto Madryn as they migrate from their feeding grounds in the south to warmer breeding grounds further north.
However, the peak whale-watching season is between September and November when there is the highest concentration of whales in the area. During this time, it’s common to see mothers with their calves, as well as males competing for females in dramatic displays of breaching and tail-slapping. Most whale watching tours occur in October through December.
3 Best Whale Watching Tours in Puerto Madryn
While it’s great to see whales off the coast while you’re on land, it’s even better to see them from the water. Here are some of the best tours available to help you get closer to the whales.
Whale Watching from Peninsula Valdes Full-Day Nature Tour
Experience the joy of watching whales and seals in their natural habitat! Take a full-day trip (12 hour tour) outside the city of Puerto Madryn to experience some of nature’s most beautiful landscapes and wildlife.
1. Whale Watching from Peninsula Valdes Full-Day Nature Tour
Enjoy a boat tour combined with a visit to the Valdes Peninsula. Look for various types of wildlife including southern right and orca whales. Hotel pick-up is included to make for a stress-free full day tour.
Unfortunately, the tour is not recommended for wheelchair users.
Check Pricing and Availability
2. Whale Watching – Full day tour at Peninsula Valdes
This private tour offered by Tours by Locals takes guests to the Valdez Peninsula for wildlife and a whale watching tour. The guide describes the tour as wheelchair friendly if the passenger can transfer to a regular vehicle (SUV Chery Tiggo4) and manage over gravel paths. Whale watching tour and lunch are an extra cost.
If you are looking for a mostly private tour (whale watching is with others) than this is fantastic option.
3. Yellow Submarine Whale Watching
See whales swimming through the water both above and below the water on this semi-submersible tour. A long steep ramp is used to board the vessel on land before it drives into the water for an unforgettable experience.
Wheelchair users and people with limited mobility will need to assess whether they can navigate the ramp to board. The underwater viewing area requires steep steps that are similar to a ladder.
It is unclear whether this tour is offered in English. If you don’t mind not hearing the commentary and just want an opportunity to see the whales, this may still be a good option.
Check Pricing and Availability
Puerto Madryn FAQ’s
How Do I Get to Puerto Madryn?
Air
The easiest and fastest way to get to Puerto Madryn is by flying into El Tehuelche Airport, which is located about 10 km (6 miles) from the city center. Several airlines operate flights to and from the airport, including Aerolineas Argentinas, LATAM Airlines, and Flybondi.
Bus
Puerto Madryn can be reached by bus from major cities in Argentina, such as Buenos Aires, Bariloche, and Ushuaia. The bus terminal is located in the city center and is served by several bus companies, including Don Otto, Andesmar, and El Pinguino.
Car
The city is located about 1,400 km (870 miles) south of Buenos Aires and can be accessed via National Route 3.
Where Should I Stay?
When choosing accommodations in Puerto Madryn, consider your budget, preferred location, and the amenities you desire. It’s also important to book well in advance, especially during the high season (December to February), as accommodations can fill up quickly.
Here are my top choices:
Hotel Peninsula Valdes
Close to many popular sites and attraction, this hotel makes a good option. Guests will enjoy a free breakfast, Wi-Fi, access to the hot tub, and paid parking onsite.
Check Pricing and Availability
Dazzler by Wyndham Puerto Madryn
This hotel offers a panoramic view of the Gulf and is located in the city center. Visitors can enjoy a free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, an onsite restaurant, roof top terrace and more during their stay.
Check Pricing and Availability
What’s the Weather Like in Puerto Madryn?
Overall, the weather in Puerto Madryn is mild and generally pleasant, although it can be windy at times. It’s important to check the weather forecast before visiting and pack appropriate clothing for the season.
Summer (December to February)
The average high temperature during the summer months is around 24-25°C (75-77°F), with occasional heatwaves reaching up to 30°C (86°F). The nights are cooler, with temperatures averaging around 10-15°C (50-59°F). The summer months are generally sunny and dry, with occasional rain.
Autumn (March to May)
The temperatures start to cool down in March and continue to drop through May. The average high temperature in March is around 22°C (72°F), while in May it drops to around 15°C (59°F). The nights are cooler, with temperatures averaging around 5-10°C (41-50°F). There can be occasional rain and wind during the autumn months.
Winter (June to August)
The winter months are cool and dry, with average high temperatures around 13-14°C (55-57°F) and lows around 3-4°C (37-39°F). The winds can be strong during the winter months, making it feel colder.
Spring (September to November)
The temperatures start to warm up in September and continue to rise through November. The average high temperature in November is around 21°C (70°F), while in September it is around 16°C (61°F). The nights are still cool, with temperatures averaging around 5-10°C (41-50°F). The spring months can be windy, but also sunny and dry.
What Should I Wear on a Whale Watching Tour?
Overall, it’s important to dress comfortably and be prepared for the weather and conditions on the boat. Check with your tour operator for any specific recommendations or requirements for clothing or gear.
Here are my recommended items to help guide you.
- Dress in layers:
The weather in Puerto Madryn can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to dress in layers that you can add or remove as needed. Start with a base layer of lightweight, breathable clothing, such as a t-shirt and shorts or pants, and add a warm sweater or jacket on top. Bring a waterproof or windproof layer, such as a rain jacket or shell, in case of rain or wind. - Wear comfortable, non-slip footwear:
You’ll be on a boat that may be wet or slippery, so it’s important to wear shoes with good traction and that can get wet, such as closed-toe sandals or water shoes. Avoid wearing flip-flops or high heels, which can be dangerous on a boat.
- Bring a hat and sunglasses:
The sun can be intense on the water, so bring a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from UV rays. - Apply sunscreen:
Even if it’s cloudy, UV rays can still penetrate through the clouds and reflect off the water, so apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin.
Is Whale Watching in Puerto Madryn Wheelchair Accessible?
There are some tours (that I listed above) that indicate they may be appropriate for people with mobility problems and wheelchair users. Ultimately, the determining factors on whether it will be accessible depends on your abilities and needs. I highly recommend contacting the tour company prior to booking to see if they can accommodate you.
Are Whale Watching Tours in Puerto Madryn Ethical?
Whale watching tours in Puerto Madryn can be ethical if conducted by responsible tour operators who prioritize the well-being of the whales and their natural habitat. Ethical whale watching practices involve respecting the animals’ natural behavior, minimizing the impact of the tour on the environment, and following established guidelines and regulations for whale watching.
In fact, it was the public’s interest in whale watching tours that helped stop them from being hunted. Providers realized that there was money to be made by saving these gentle giants and allowing the public a chance to witness them in their natural habitat.
Are There Penguins in Puerto Madryn?
Nearby Puerto Madryn on the Valdez Peninsula, you can find a colony of Magellanic Penguins. Similarly, south of the city in Punta Tombo, there is a wildlife reserve where you can see thousands of these adorable Magellanic Penguins.
Magellanic penguins are a species of penguin that are native to the coasts of South Americ. They are named after the explorer Ferdinand Magellan, who first spotted them during his voyage around the world in the 16th century.
These medium-sized penguins, growing up to 70 cm (28 inches) in length and weighing up to 5.5 kg (12 lbs.). They have distinctive black and white markings, with a black back and white chest and belly. In addition, they have a black band across their chest and a white stripe that runs across their face and above their eyes.
They are social birds that live in large colonies, typically nesting in burrows or under bushes to protect their eggs and chicks from the sun and wind. They mate for life and often return to the same breeding site year after year.
What Other Wildlife Can I See?
Puerto Madryn is an animal lover’s dream destination! You can see guanaco, ostriches, foxes, elephant seals, sea lions, wild horses, armadillos, sheep, and lizards. There are several protected areas where these incredible creatures are free to roam.
It’s always a thrill to see these beautiful animals in their natural habitat. However, it’s important to respect these animals’ space and avoid disturbing them. They are wild animals and deserve to stay that way without a lot of human interference.
Final Thoughts on Whale Watching in Puerto Madryn
Whale watching in Puerto Madryn is an incredible experience that everyone should have on their bucket list. For the best experience, try visiting in November and don’t forget to look for the other animals that reside in the area. You won’t regret it!
