Wildlife on the Valdés Peninsula

​Would you like to go wildlife spotting in Argentina? The best place in Argentina to do this is Peninsula Valdés, a peninsula on the Atlantic Ocean. The nutrient-rich waters along the coast of Peninsula Valdés are home to an exceptionally diverse range of wildlife, including penguins, seals, sea lions, whales and elephant seals!

Penguins

​Between November and March, you can spot penguins on and around the Valdés Peninsula. Penguins are creatures of habit and therefore return to the peninsula every year – and in some cases even to the same nest – to breed. Penguins are very curious animals, which means you can observe them at very close quarters.

Whales

​The first whales start arriving in the waters around Peninsula Valdés as early as June, but the population peaks in September and October. There may be as many as 500 whales swimming in the area at that time. The whales also come to this area to give birth to their young. You can go on a boat trip, but it is sometimes also possible to see the whales breaching from the shore.

Sea lions and elephant seals

​Sea lions and elephant seals can be found on Peninsula Valdés all year round. They alternate between spending time on the coast and in the water. Here you’ll find large colonies of sea lions and elephant seals. The young ones are playful and often get on the older ones’ nerves, making for an entertaining spectacle. And for those not put off by cold water, it’s even possible to go snorkelling or diving with sea lions.

Orcas

From September through to April, it is possible to spot orcas. What makes spotting orcas at Peninsula Valdés so special is that these so-called ‘killer whales’ come right up onto the shore whilst hunting. Orcas hunt young sea lions, which is why they swim close to the coast. If a young sea lion isn’t paying attention, the orca will throw itself onto the shore to seize its prey. This phenomenon is virtually unique in the world.

Dolphins

​There are two species of dolphin found around the Valdés Peninsula. The Commerson’s dolphin, also known as the short-beaked dolphin, can be found in the waters around the peninsula all year round. The spotted dolphin is present between December and April. It is a truly special experience to see a pod of 100 dolphins swimming out in front of your boat.

In a submarine

​Fancy spotting marine life in a unique and unforgettable way? You can do just that on board the Yellow Submarine. This vessel is partly submerged, just like a submarine. This gives travellers the chance to spot the animals not only from the water’s surface, but also actually underwater. There is always a nature guide on board who can tell you more about the animals’ behaviour and habits. Below, you can see just what a special experience this is.

Staying at El Pedral Lodge

​If you’d like to spot wildlife on the Valdés Peninsula, we recommend staying for at least two nights in accommodation in the area. A lovely and comfortable option is the charming El Pedral Lodge, situated at Punta Nifas, about 75 kilometres from Puerto Madryn. The lodge features Norman-style architecture and décor, and a short walk takes you to the Patagonian coastline.