From Buenos Aires to Uruguay
As someone who’s always been captivated by nature’s wonders, I recently had the incredible opportunity to immerse myself in an unforgettable experience on the picturesque shores of Puerto Madryn and the Valdes Peninsula. It’s a journey that draws numerous travelers every year, all eager to witness something truly magical – the arrival of southern right whales.
The southern right whale is a cetacean that inhabits the seas of the southern hemisphere. Males can reach lengths of up to 15 meters, while females can grow to be 16 to 17 meters long. An adult specimen can weigh up to 40 tons. These whales spend a significant part of the year in the Antarctic waters, where they feed, and then migrate to warmer northern waters, such as Puerto Madryn, for reproduction. Whales have callosities on their skin, mainly on their heads, where some types of crustaceans reside. The name “right whale” was given by ancient sailors and whalers because it was an easy species to hunt. Nowadays, southern right whales are endangered, and in Argentina, they are protected by law and have been declared a Natural Heritage.
One of the key factors that make Puerto Madryn and the Valdes Peninsula a prime destination for whale watching is the tranquility of the surrounding bays. The waters here are calm, like a serene oasis, allowing mother whales to care for their precious calves without disturbance. The lack of lurking predators ensures the safety of these gentle giants.
During my stay, I discovered that some whales choose to linger in the soothing embrace of Golfo Nuevo, just off the city of Puerto Madryn. It’s a breathtaking sight to behold as you stand on the beach or stroll along the coastal promenade. Yet, if you’re yearning for an even more immersive experience, Playa El Doradillo and La Cantera are the places to be.
Then, where is the best place to see the whales? For me, each experience is unique, and if you haven’t done whale watching on a boat, I’d suggest you go for it.
Some of the companies that offer whale watching tours ⛴️
For mountain bike tours where you can also see whales, trekking or snorkel with sea lions 🚴🏽
However, what was truly special for me was seeing the whales directly from the shore at Playa El Doradillo and La Cantera. The feeling of being on solid ground and having so many beautiful animals withing 10m from the shore is truly magical. You can spend the whole day watching them as flip, tumble and turn with their calves in the calm waters. Take your picnic blanket, some snacks and watch nature’s beauty unfold in front of you.
For those who seek alternative coastal spots for whale watching, Punta Pardelas, Playa Larralde, and Playa Ameghino are also fantastic choices, you can trek there or why not do some mountain biking. Each location, nestled within the Valdes Peninsula, offers unique opportunities to witness these gentle giants gracefully navigating the ocean waters.
As someone who’s always eager to explore new horizons, my visit to Puerto Madryn and the Valdes Peninsula was a journey of a lifetime. It’s a destination that subtly reminds us of the immense beauty that exists in our natural world. And while I may not be a marine biologist, I believe that every individual should experience the wonder of whale watching at least once in their lifetime.
So, if you ever find yourself in this corner of the world, be sure to take a moment to connect with nature’s giants. Witnessing their graceful presence on these shores is a memory that will stay with you forever.
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