Puerto Madryn, Argentina, is a major wildlife destination in South America. This mid-sized town, located on the country’s east coast in the province of Chubut—part of Patagonia—is one of the best places to visit in the country.
As you know, I have been to Argentina many times, so I obviously visited Puerto Madryn. I have a crazy story about getting there after being stranded in Bahia Blanca during a strike and having to arrange a minivan for a bunch of other people who also needed to get there—it’s actually one of my fondest memories of my first trip to Argentina!
Back to Puerto Madryn though… While it has some beautiful beaches (however, don’t expect palm trees and clear turquoise waters—this is Patagonia, after all, which is the opposite of tropical), the major attraction in this part of Argentina is the thriving marine life.
Between May and December, Puerto Madryn is a great place to spot Southern Right Whales. On a lucky day, you may even be able to spot them from the shore. But even in the summer months, when it is not the whale-watching season, there are plenty of things to do in Puerto Madryn.
Indeed, a trip to the nearby Peninsula Valdés or Punta Tombo, or even just a boat tour along the bay, will provide endless opportunities to spot more species.
Curious to find out more? Continue reading. In this post, I highlight all the best things to do in Puerto Madryn, Argentina, and share some practical information to help you plan your trip.
Best Things To Do In Puerto Madryn, Argentina
Go whale watching
The first thing that comes to mind when thinking of what to do in Puerto Madryn is the southern right whales. These can be seen in the winter and spring months, which in the southern hemisphere last from May to December.
The peak season is between June and November (much like in South Africa) when whales come to the bay to give birth and teach their calves how to swim before moving to other parts of the ocean.
Whales can be spotted from the shore at El Doradillo Beach, which is about 30 minutes from the city. On a very lucky day, you may even see them from the beach in town.
Many other travelers take a whale-watching boat tour from Puerto Madryn, which greatly increases your chances of spotting the whales and being much closer. It’s important to go with a reputable company that doesn’t get too close to these gentle giants.
If you’re interested in a whale-watching boat tour, I recommend this Valdes Peninsula: Full Day with Whale Watching. The tour includes transportation from Puerto Madryn and a boat tour with a guide. It does not include any national park fees, lunch, and drinks.
Go dolphin watching in Puerto Rawson
There’s nothing better than seeing dolphins in their natural environment (rather than at a dolphinarium, which is one of the most irresponsible things a tourist can do).
Puerto Madryn is a fantastic place to admire Commerson’s dolphins. These are black and white dolphins often called “panda dolphins” or “skunk dolphins.” They are smaller than the typical dolphin and are only found in this part of the world.
Boat tours to go dolphin watching usually take place in Puerto Rawson and Golfo Nuevo. They normally last around 90 minutes, and you’ll get to see dolphins playing and swimming near the boat (it’s like if they challenge it to play!), while the guide will be providing plenty of information about these mammals as well as other animals you may be spotting.
Dive or snorkel with the sea lions
Though sea lions can get a bit aggressive on land, they are truly cute in the water. They can be seen in various spots around Puerto Madryn, but if you fancy snorkeling or even diving with them, head to Punta Loma, where a colony of around 600 lives, protected from the orcas that also live along this coast.
Sea lions live in the area of Punta Loma year-round – so you’ll have a chance to see them and swim with them regardless of the time of year you visit. Lobo Larsen is the best company in town that organizes sea lion snorkeling or diving expeditions.
I recommend this Puerto Madryn: 3-Hour Snorkeling Trip with Sea Lions that heads to Punta Loma Natural Reserve for an exciting day of snorkeling with sea lions. The tour includes transportation, snorkel equipment, a guide, and hot drinks.
Visit the penguin colony in Punta Tombo
There’s little doubt that the penguin colony in Punta Tombo Natural Reserve is what to see in Puerto Madryn. It’ll definitely be a highlight of your Argentina itinerary, as it’s a beautiful place with so many Puerto Madryn penguins.
Once you get in the reserve, you’ll literally be surrounded by them. Guides will tell you not to walk in front of them or not to get too close to them – but worry not! There are so many that chances are they will be the ones walking in front of you, and you’ll have plenty of excellent photo opportunities.
The penguins you’ll see in Punta Tombo are Magellanic penguins. The best time to see them is between September and April when they arrive to mate and give birth. Depending on the time of year you visit, you’ll see lots of young (very cute) ones.
I recommend this Punta Tombo: Shore Excursion if you want to walk with the penguins. It’s technically designed for cruise ship passengers, so the meeting point is at Piedrabuena Pier. But it’s still a really fun outing, with an English-speaking guide and the promise of a fun day for penguin lovers.
As cute as they are, penguins have a very strong beak, and they surely hurt when they bite! Don’t get too close, and by all means, do not touch them!
Explore Peninsula Valdes
One of the best places to spot wildlife near Puerto Madryn is Peninsula Valdes. There is a good reason that this is a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
Located around 77 km (47.8m miles) from town, a trip to Peninsula Valdes normally includes several stops at beaches in the area and to admire the colonies of elephant seals and the former lighthouse (now a hotel) of Punta Delgada. You’ll also see some penguins in Punta Norte (though not nearly as many as in Punta Tombo).
This Full-Day Peninsula Valdez Experience – Option Whale Watching is one of the best tours to the Valdez Peninsula from Puerto Madryn. You’ll head to Puerto Pirámides for good views or whale-watching, Caleta Valdes, and Punta Norte.
Check out my post 15 Amazing National Parks In Argentina for more places in Argentina with picturesque views.
Hang out in Puerto Pyramides
Most people visit Puerto Pyramides during their day tour of Peninsula Valdes. However, this tiny town – no more than a village, really—surrounded by pyramid-shaped cliffs (hence its name) is a nice place to hang out for a day or two.
It has a couple of cool bars and cafés, a super nice beach where it is safe to swim (and the water is actually quite warm in the summer), and is a departure point for hikes and diving expeditions, not to mention an excellent whale-watching location.
It’s definitely not the best hiking in Patagonia, but it’s still really fun and scenic.
The only downside to being at the beach is that—much like the rest of Patagonia—it is super windy here. So chances are you’ll be covered in sand.
Make sure to read my post, 30 Things You Should Consider Before Traveling To Patagonia, to have a better idea of what to expect and how to prepare.
Visit Punta Loma Nature Reserve
Not far from Puerto Madryn, there is a protected nature reserve with a large colony of sea lions called Punta Loma.
You can go snorkeling or diving with them (as I have said before), but even if you don’t, make sure to visit Punta Loma. It is the only permanent sea lion colony in South America, with around 600 lobos marinos (actually, this translates into sea wolves). They live on a beautiful pebble beach, and you can see them from a lookout point.
If you want a more comprehensive tour with several fun stops, I recommend this exciting 4X4 Experience Around Puerto Madryn. You’ll ride a 4×4 vehicle all around Puerto Madryn, including Punta Loma Nature Reserve. Because of the mode of transportation, you’ll reach some unique spots that you might not be able to get to, as well.
Explore El Pedral Reserve
El Pedral Reserva is a privately owned farm that acts as an ecological resort. They also have a colony of Magellanic penguins. You can stay overnight at the farm, but you can also visit for the day.
There are lots of trails around, tours leaving right from the farm, and other fun things to do. It’s about 70 km (45 miles) from Puerto Madryn, in a beautiful region with lots of wildlife, so it feels like you’re stepping away from civilization for a bit.
Relax at the beach
Patagonia is hardly famous for its beaches, but if you’re looking for free things to do in Puerto Madryn, the beaches should be at the top of your list. And if you visit in the peak of the summer, you may get some really hot days, making the beaches in town perfect for getting a breath of fresh air and cooling down.
Besides, it is an excellent place to spot locals drinking mate, kite or windsurfing, or just relaxing.
Depending on when you go, you’ll be able to view a concert. Otherwise, there are plenty of bars, pubs and restaurants around.
Other than the one in town, the best Puerto Madryn beaches are El Doradillo and Playa Parana. If you want to do some whale-watching from the beach, I recommend Las Canteras.
Visit an estancia
Visiting an estancia is actually one of the best things to do in Argentina. Estancias are somewhat similar to ranches from the Wild West in the United States but arguably more beautiful and romantic.
Scattered around Patagonia, there are many estancias (ranches). A few good ones are also close to Puerto Madryn, where you can enjoy a day admiring the local wildlife, horseback riding, checking out the livestock, and having a fabulous asado.
Among the best estancias in the area are Estancia San José, Estancia Rincon Chico (which actually is in Peninsula Valdes), and Estancia San Lorenzo. The latter allows you to combine your visit with a trip to the penguin colonies.
Are you going to Tierra del Fuego? There are some great estancias there! Make sure to read my post Everything You Need To Know About Ushuaia, Patagonia. I also have A Complete Guide To El Calafate, Argentina.
Punta Cuevas
Punta Cuevas is on the southern side of Puerto Madryn and it’s where the first Welsh Settlers arrived in 1865. The settlers used the caves around here as shelter, and it’s known as an interesting set of ruins nestled within the caves.
Not only is it a great cultural center and the best place to learn about the first Welsh settlers, but it’s also surrounded by great views. You can enjoy uninterrupted ocean views, cliffs, and maybe even some sea lions.
When the tide is low, you can walk around more along the beaches and along a few nature trails.
Visit all the local museums
Puerto Madryn is not a large city and is not known for its incredible museums. However, there’s still a small handful of museums that are definitely worth visiting. They provide good background information about the ecosystem and history of the area.
Ecocentro Museum
The Ecocenter, or Ecological Center, is only a few minutes from the city. It’s a small ecological and cultural center with beautiful natural surroundings.
You don’t need a lot of time for the museum, but it’s still worth a visit. I recommend going around sunset, as there are some great viewpoints around the museum.
The Oceanographic Museum
Museo Provincial de Ciencias Naturales y Oceanografico is a nice introduction to the nature and history of Puerto Madryn and Chubut.
You’ll find plenty of information on the southern right whales found in this area, other marine mammals, and even the history of the Welsh settlers who founded the town. It’s in one of the oldest buildings in town, a few minutes walk from the city center, and admission is free—it’s worth visiting.
The Oceanographic Museum was closed for several years due to renovations. However, these renovations were finished around February 2024, and the doors will open to the public very soon. Make sure you check ahead of time whether they’ve reopened.
Museum of Paleontology
The best place to see fossils in Patagonia is actually the Paleontology Museum of Trelew. There are a couple of different exhibitions and – depending on the time of your visit – you may even be able to see the largest dinosaur ever found – which was discovered near Trelew.
The museum was also closed for several years but is planning to reopen around July 2024, so keep an eye out if you’re visiting.
Take a photo at El Indio Tehuelche Monument
El Indo Tehuelche Monument is an iconic symbol in Puerto Madryn that was built to honor the indigenous community that helped the Welsh settlers.
There’s a little story about a Welsh woman who stepped off the ship in what is now Puerto Madryn and handed her young child to one of the indigenous people as a sign of friendship and trust.
There are also some great views of the statue, and it’s very easy to reach from the center of town, so it’s one of the best free things to do in Puerto Madryn.
Visit Trelew and Gaiman
Most of the towns in Chubut were founded by Welsh settlers. You should definitely take your time to discover a few!
Trelew is about one hour from Puerto Madryn and has the interesting paleontology talked about above. Gaiman is a farming village founded in the 1800s with plenty of historic buildings and even a lovely Welsh tea shop. If you crave a good cup of tea with bread, jam, cakes, and whatnot, make sure to stop at the Casa de Te Ty Gwyn.
Eat
If you’re struggling to figure out what to do in Puerto Madryn, one of my favorite answers is to eat! It’s not known for its crazy food scene, but there are still many authentic Argentinian places to eat, as well as international cuisines.
There are many excellent restaurants in Puerto Madryn, which is especially a great place to try the famous Argentine steaks or lamb (or even better asado). However, you’ll also find lots of seafood and Italian food options (much like in the rest of Argentina).
Nautico Bistro de Mar is a lovely romantic spot right on the water. Another place to try is Cantina El Nautico, which is especially good for seafood (make sure to try the shrimp). Giuseppe (Peppe Restaurante) is the best place for pizza and pasta at reasonable prices.
Argentina has great food, so it should be no surprise that you’ll find many hidden gems and local spots scattered all around Puerto Madryn with good cuisine.
Practical Information To Plan Your Trip
Where to stay in Puerto Madryn
There are a few good places to stay in Puerto Madryn Argentina for all tastes and budgets. I opted to stay at a hostel when I visited and had a fantastic experience meeting people I am still friends with. Alternatively, there are some good hotels and even small apartments you can rent.
This is a selection of the best places to stay in town:
- Hotel Bahia Nueva is a great budget option with spacious rooms and clean social spaces. The owner and the staff are very helpful in organizing day tours and helping guests with car rentals. It’s also very close to the beach and many other amenities.
- Wind Puerto Madryn is a nice, modern, and fully equipped apartment, perfect if you want a more independent experience. It’s a two-bedroom apartment with a kitchen, private bathroom, and other spaces you’d expect in the typical apartment. It’s also in a great location near the Puerto Madryn beach and city center.
- Hotel Piren has large, comfortable rooms—some also have sea views, which make the stay even more romantic. There’s also a small pool, a balcony with a beautiful view, and lovely staff.
Best time to visit Puerto Madryn
Any time is a good time to visit Puerto Madryn Argentina because there are so many different animal seasons, so you’ll always be able to see beautiful wildlife. Plan your trip in time to see the animals you are more keen on.
Whale season is between May and December, whereas penguin season is between September and April. Elephant seals can be seen year-round.
How to get to Puerto Madryn Argentina
The easiest and fastest way to get to Puerto Madryn is to fly to Trelew, about 55 km (34.1 miles) away, and then take the bus or a private shuttle.
Alternatively, you can fly to Bahia Blanca and then take the bus (it’s around 10 hours), or bus it all the way from Buenos Aires (around 20 hours). There are also daily buses to El Calafate. The bus trips are very long, but the buses are actually very comfortable.
How to move around Puerto Madryn and Chubut
You may want to rent a car for the duration of your stay in the area, but car rental in Argentina can be quite tricky, with lots of restrictions on the distances you can cover. It can also be difficult to find cheap car rentals Puerto Madryn. Anyway, the best thing is to enquire to find out more information.
Make sure to read my post, A Guide To Renting A Car In Argentina. I recommend DiscoverCars for Puerto Madryn car rentals. I’ve used the company in several countries, and it’s the easiest place to rent a car.
If you don’t want to rent a car, the best way to get around is to join the guided tours that regularly leave from town.
Is Puerto Madryn safe?
Yes, Puerto Madryn is safe. There are very few reports of petty crime and the like against tourists. One of the biggest dangers is the infrastructure surrounding Puerto Madryn. The roads and surroundings are very basic, so you want to try to stay on marked paths and avoid having the car rental break down.
And as with any foreign city, you should always be aware of your surroundings. I don’t recommend walking around dark streets alone at night or leaving your belongings unattended.
Is Puerto Madryn worth visiting?
After all of this, what do you think? Is Puerto Madryn worth visiting? I’d argue that, yes, it’s definitely worth visiting.
Puerto Madryn is a haven for animal lovers, as it’s home to some of the most unique and exciting aquatic creatures. You can go whale-watching, dolphin-watching, swim with sea lions, and walk amongst the penguins.
You can then take a break from the excitement to sample good cuisine, relax on the Puerto Madryn beaches if the weather is nice, and simply enjoy the atmosphere.
And if that isn’t enough, it has a fascinating history pioneered by the Welsh. Overall, Puerto Madryn is actually one of my favorite places in Patagonia!
Other useful information
As with any other place you may be visiting, make sure to get good insurance before your trip. Travel insurance is actually one of my most important travel tips for Argentina, especially if you’re planning more adventurous activities (which many people are in this part of the world).
I always recommend HeyMondo to fellow travelers. It has great plans that should cover everything you need, and it’s easy to sign up for.
Don’t forget to read my post Why You Need A Good Travel Insurance.
Further Readings
Are you planning a trip to Argentina? Make sure to read my posts:
- A Guide To The Greatest Things To Do In Argentina
- Top 13 Things To Do In Rosario Argentina: An Insiders’ Guide!
- 25 Unmissable Things To Do In Buenos Aires
- 11 Fantastic Day Trips From Buenos Aires
- A Complete Guide To Where To Stay In Buenos Aires
- Hiking Gear And More: The Perfect Patagonia Packing List
- The Best Argentine Movies
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