Why spring is one of the best times to visit Puerto Madryn

There are few destinations in the world that combine nature with a vibrant city lifediversity of accommodations adaptable to every budget, high-level gastronomy and extreme activities.

And our country has it: Puerto Madrynon the coast of Chubut, is the gateway to a natural paradise in the south and is positioned among the cities with the most proposals for young people.

Two hours by plane from Buenos Aires, this corner of Patagonia welcomes its visitors with its distinctive seal: the Spring is the time when whales and penguins coincide in this destination, which is beginning to prepare for summer with its beaches with calm, blue waters, as well as tours of historic neighboring towns.

Arriving in Puerto Madryn between June and December means being prepared to be surprised by the proximity with the southern right whale, its history and its care. The city immerses itself in the world of whales. So much so that it is possible to hear them breathing in the silence of the night.

It is one of the first obligatory stops before going whale watching.

There Juan Carlos López, researcher and disseminator of awareness and conservation of marine fauna, acts as a luxury host, receives visitors and displays all his knowledge about whales and orcas. On the circuit you can learn much more about them and understand their behavior.

It is located about fifteen minutes by car from the city center and the entrance costs $9,500 (foreign adults), $4,500 (foreign minors); $6,000 (Argentine seniors) and $3,000 (Argentine minors and retirees).

A navigation of approximately one and a half hours from Peninsula Valdés to observe the southern right whale.

From the beginning of the navigation, the captain in charge of the boat and his guide emphasize the care protocol so as not to disturb the natural environment of the whales.

“They are not pursued, and we must stop 50 meters from them. If they want, they will be in charge of being seen,” they say.

Prices range from $62,500 for minors to $125,000 for adults. In addition, you must pay entry to the Protected Natural Area: $10,000 (adults) and $5,000 (minors) for national tourists.

• Watch whales from the shore

For those who prefer to do more gas-watching, the option is to visit El Doradillo, about 17 kilometers from Puerto Madryn.

It is a beach that, at high tide, allows you to observe whales meters from the shore. Entry is free of charge and has no stay time (keep in mind that due to road repaving works, currently getting here can take up to an hour).

Magellanic penguins take away much of the attraction of the trip in spring (they arrive in September and leave in April). Curiosity to know their environment, their behavior and seeing them from a few meters away makes the trip to Punta Tombo – 180 km from Puerto Madryn – a “yes or yes” on the itinerary.

Punta Tombo is the largest continental colony of penguins in South America with a unique seal: you can walk very close to the penguins while they nest and prepare to reproduce (it is very important to maintain distance, silence and strictly respect the instructions of the wildlife guards). .

Access to Punta Tombo for Argentines costs $6,500 (adults) and $3,500 (children).

Recommendation: the trip to Punta Tombo lasts almost two hours from the city center. It is advisable to do it with a guide or a previously booked excursion to learn the history of the La Regina ranch and how the penguins got there.

In Trelew – you pass through there on the way to Punta Tombo – there is the Egidio Feruglio paleontological museum, but at the moment it is closed for expansion and renovation work.

You can also see Magellanic penguins in Peninsula Valdés: in Punta Cantor, where the public viewpoint towards Caleta Valdés is, and in Punta Norte, the continental colony that has grown the most in recent years, which is reached through Estancia San Lorenzo.

For those looking a little action and strong emotionsPuerto Madryn serves as a setting for outdoor activities: one of the most requested is the snorkeling with sea lions. Swimming alongside these curious creatures that come to play with visitors is a unique experience. “Abramar” offers a navigation service, instruction, wetsuits and instructors who accompany you throughout the experience.

For those who feel more comfortable on land, from the Estancia San Guillermo are made guided mountain bike tours along paths that end at the seashore with a warm snack. You can also tour the ranch, see the sheep shearing shed and – if the weather permits – do astrotourism at night.

About 80 kilometers from Madryn are two historic jewels of the valley: Gaiman and Dolavon, where Welsh culture is still alive. These towns offer an immersion in the past with a mix of tradition, modernity, youthful impulse and landscapes that fit perfectly on Instagram.

It is recommended start the day in Dolavona booming town driven by its young mayor and a team of also young officials.

One of the great attractions is The Old Milla restaurant that became the star of the place. Its history is admirable: a group of young people under 30 years old, trained for five years by a Cordoban chef, formed a cooperative that today dazzles with its Valley gastronomy. The dishes are designed with an exquisite level of detail, and the experience is so good that it is always necessary book in advance.

In the afternoon, leave for Gaiman is a good plan. The town is famous for its welsh tea houses. Entering one of them is a trip back in time: the aroma of homemade cakes, the taste of the classic cucumber sandwich and the warmth of the hostesses make you feel like having a snack at your grandmother’s house.

The place also has a special connection with British royalty, since Lady Di visited him during her visit to Argentina in 1995..

• Cantina El Náutico: a classic. Its interior is adorned with photos of celebrities who passed by, which gives it a nostalgic and charming air. The star dish is the white salmon, fresh and juicy, but you can’t leave without trying the appetizer gratin scallops. The prices? Quite affordable for the quality and abundance of the food: between 14,000 and 20,000 pesos per person. Yes, you have to Book early and be punctual: demand is very high.

• Bistro: A beach-side restaurant that offers an incredible view of the sunset. The relaxed atmosphere, outdoor tables and a varied menu make it an ideal place to enjoy the summer, for example. Prices are between 14,000 and 18,000 pesos. He chorizo ​​steakthe star dish.

• And if you have room for something sweet, Julia Chocolates It is the icing on the cake. This small place became a success for its famous whale fin stuffed with dulce de leche and its artisanal truffles.

The city is as intense as it is quiet and allows you to enjoy it according to the intention of each visitor. Between the vastness of the oceanhe patagonian wind and the cultural wealthPuerto Madryn opens its doors all year round for those who want to return home with a little more awareness about the natural treasures of Argentina.