Peninsula Valdes full day: Northern Circuit

The Peninsula Valdes full day: Northern Circuit excursion invites you to discover one of the most important natural destinations in Argentine Patagonia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From mid-November to late May, the itinerary follows the Northern Circuit of Peninsula Valdes, an experience that combines coastal landscapes, marine wildlife colonies and the opportunity to enjoy an optional boat trip from Puerto Piramides, while visiting some of the most iconic locations within the protected area.

The experience begins early in the morning with hotel pick-up in Puerto Madryn before entering Peninsula Valdes. The first stop is the Carlos Ameghino Isthmus, where you will visit the Interpretation Center to learn about the history, geography and biodiversity of the reserve. From its viewpoint, you can also enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Golfo Nuevo, Golfo San Matías and Bird Island.

The tour then continues to Puerto Piramides, the peninsula's only village. During this time of year, when the Southern Right Whales begin their migration toward southern waters, the traditional whale-watching tour is replaced by the optional boat excursion, a navigation that takes visitors close to the Punta Piramides sea lion colony to observe South American sea lions in their natural habitat, while also passing Cormorant Island, Bird Cliff and caves containing marine fossils. If sea conditions are favorable, there is also the possibility of spotting dusky dolphins.

The boat trip completed, the excursion continues along the Northern Circuit across the Patagonian steppe to Punta Cantor, an outstanding natural viewpoint overlooking the southern elephant seal colony located along Caleta Valdes. Afterwards, there will be a stop at Estancia La Elvira Lodge, an ideal place to rest or enjoy lunch before continuing to Punta Norte, one of the most important marine wildlife colonies in Peninsula Valdes, home to South American sea lions and southern elephant seals. Between January and March, and sometimes during April depending on natural conditions, this area also offers one of the best opportunities to try to observe orcas hunting from the shoreline.

During the tour, you will also visit Caleta Valdes, where between October and March it is possible to observe an important colony of Magellanic penguins. Throughout the protected area's internal roads, it is common to encounter native wildlife such as guanacos, Patagonian maras, lesser rheas, gray foxes, skunks and a wide variety of Patagonian bird species, making every stretch of the excursion a unique opportunity to enjoy nature and wildlife photography.

Finally, the return journey to Puerto Madryn begins, once again crossing the vast landscapes of the Patagonian steppe. After discovering some of the most iconic places in Peninsula Valdes and spending a day surrounded by wildlife, nature and breathtaking scenery, the excursion concludes with the transfer back to your accommodation, leaving you with an unforgettable experience in one of Patagonia's greatest natural treasures.