Information and tips
Puerto Madryn is one of the most fascinating tourist destinations in the Argentine Patagonia, famous for its overflowing nature, its Atlantic coast rich in marine fauna and its proximity to protected areas of enormous ecological value. Here I share with you the most useful information, practical tips and important recommendations to fully enjoy your visit:
WHAT YOU WILL SEE:
Puerto Madryn is the gateway to the Valdes Peninsula, declared a Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to the richness and diversity of its fauna, especially marine. During your visit you will be able to marvel and enjoy the beauty of an incredible variety of species in their natural habitat: whales, orcas, dolphins, penguin colonies, sea lions, elephant seals, more than a hundred species of birds and a variety of mammals that will make your trip a wonderful experience.
Tip: Consult the Wildlife Calendar to make sure you find what you are most interested in seeing.
Whales:
The first whales begin to arrive in May, but whale season begins in June and extends until mid-December.
During this period, whales are often seen off the city, but to see them up close, the privileged spot is Playa Canteras, located within the El Doradillo Protected Natural Area, 15 km from the city, where you can observe them from the shore at a distance of about 30 meters.
Tip: Go at high tide. This is when they come closest to the coast. Check the tide chart here.
For an even closer experience, we recommend taking the boat trip from Puerto Pirámides, where you'll be almost within reach of them.
Tips:
Book your excursion in advance.
Don't book for the last day of your stay in the area, as excursions can be canceled due to weather conditions. Leave at least one day's extra time to make it in case your reserved day is canceled.
Bring a coat and, if possible, avoid eating before boarding.
Restrictions to keep in mind:
It is forbidden to approach the whales with private boats, motorboats, kayaks or jet skis.
Pets are not allowed in reserves, protected natural areas or in Península Valdés.
Do not exceed the allowed limits and never feed the animals.
The use of drones is restricted in certain areas. Consult the park rangers.
Do not camp or light fires outside the permitted areas. Make sure there are no embers or remnants of any fire.
Pick up the garbage you generate and deposit it in the appropriate containers.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
BEACHES:
Puerto Madryn has beautiful beaches to enjoy the summer: very crowded and with all the vibe in front of the city, and calmer and quieter beaches a few kilometers away.
The weather in summer is perfect. Hot during the day, reaching average temperatures between 25 and 30°C and much cooler at night, allowing you to rest and sleep without air conditioning.
Tip: Always, always! Use sunscreen
CLIMATE:
The climate in the region is quite good. Generally dry, with little rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities throughout the year.
Winter. Cold and dry which makes the low temperatures very bearable if you keep warm. The lowest temperatures are around 3 or 4°C, and can exceptionally reach temperatures as low as -11°C.
Spring. Pleasant temperatures but windy. It is always advisable to bring a coat.
Summer. Hot during the day and sometimes windy, with typical summer storms, intense but short.
Autumn. Very pleasant. Sunny and dry.
Tips:
Although it does not snow, in winter there may be ice on the streets. Drive very carefully.
No matter what time of the year you come, always bring a coat.
WE RECOMMEND:
Dedicate a minimum of 3 full days for your visit to Madryn, preferably 4 if you want to tour the area.
Rent a car to get to El Doradillo, visit Peninsula Valdes, Punta Tombo and visit Trelew, Gaiman and Dolavon.
KEEP IN MIND:
Touring Península Valdés is a full day excursion (400 km); whether you do it with a hired tour or by car on your own,
you can do the Whale Watching the same day in Puerto Pirámides.
The same way to visit the penguin colony of Punta Tombo. On the same day you can include a visit to Trelew and Gaiman.
If you are not used to driving on gravel roads, drive very carefully and at no more than 60 km/h. Accidents and rollovers of tourists on gravel roads are very frequent. Remember that you are with your family and you are not running a rally.
If you have one, bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom.
WHAT YOU CAN'T MISS:
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Windbreaker and a light coat always.
Thermos, yerba mate and mate (of course).
The best vibe
AND THE MOST IMPORTANT THING:
Enjoy the Patagonian rhythm: silence, contemplation and nature.
