Peninsula Valdes’ Unique Marine Fauna Heaven

• See the largest continental colony of Southern Elephant Seals in the entire world

Peninsula Valdes is one of the largest marine wildlife reserves in the entire world, and a prime spot for viewing a diverse collection of wildlife. It was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO because of its global significance as a marine wildlife refuge for several threatened species.

The scenic Peninsula Valdes, where arid landscapes contrast with the blue crystalline sea, is home to an important breeding population of the endangered southern Right Whale (whale season takes place from June to early December), southern sea lions, orcas (also known as “killer whales”), Magellanic penguins (penguin season is from mid-September to early April), as well as the largest continental colony of southern elephant seals in the entire world. National Geographic listed the Peninsula Valdes as one of the 10 best places in the world for whale-watching.

The inner part of the peninsula is inhabited by rheas, guanacos (American Llama), hairy armadillos, ostriches and maras (very similar to hares). A high diversity and range of birds live in the peninsula as well; at least 181 species.

Our tour begins in the morning, when we head to Peninsula Valdes, which is an island united to the continent by a long strip of land called, in this case, Carlos Ameghino Isthmus. After 48 miles (77 kilometers) we make our first stop at the small interpretation center.

We continue our journey to our second stop: Puerto Piramides (Port Pyramids town) from where we’ll depart to enjoy a whale-watching navigation experience.

We then head to the southeastern point of the peninsula: Punta Delgada, home to a colony of elephant seals. Peninsula Valdes has the largest continental colony of elephant seals in the world.

The elephant seal is the largest pinniped (seal) on Earth, with adult males weighing up to 4000 kilograms (4 tons), which is around 8 times heavier than a polar bear! They get their “elephant” name from their massive size and also the proboscis (the inflatable trunk-like snout) of the males, used to make a loud roaring sound to assert their dominance against other males, to establish their territory, and to defend their haram (group of females). During mating season, they can be very aggressive with each other. Elephant seals are excellent divers, and are able to dive up to 4900 feet (1500 meters) beneath the ocean’s surface, able to stay underwater for more than an hour and a half. An outlook balcony located near a cliff will allow for the chance to enjoy a panoramic look at the elephant seals colony.

We then head to Caleta Valdes, a natural channel, which lodges a large variety of marine fauna. Caleta Valdes boasts the most spectacular panoramic views of the Peninsula Valdes. Elephant seals can be seen from a viewpoint that overlooks the sea; in addition to a small colony of Magellanic penguins.

Depending on weather conditions, orcas may be seen from October to November and from February to April, when they feed on young sea lions. Please note that, while present in the area, they are certainly not easy to see.

Orcas are the greatest predators of the seas and also among the fastest marine animals in the world; reaching speeds of 35 miles (56 kilometers) an hour! They eat several species of fish chief among them sea lions, sea tortoises, elephant seals, sharks and penguins.

In Peninsula Valdes, orcas exhibit a unique behavior while hunting: they will quickly swim towards the shore and climb up onto the sand in order to prey on sea lions. The orcas in Patagonia are the only ones in the world who use this dangerous hunting method, where they leave two-thirds of their body exposed on the beach. They subsequently grip their prey in their strong jaws and slide back into the water.

After an exciting day exploring the wildlife of the Peninsula Valdes, we will return to your hotel, with a camera full of unique memories to share with family and loved ones back home.

Important: the tour’s exact itinerary and duration may change subject to weather conditions and decisions of the tour guide to optimize your tour experience.