Travel to Argentina: Puerto Madryn

Why travel to Puerto Madryn

Founded in 1865 by Welsh settlers, the fast growing city of Puerto Madryn is no longer the sleepy seaside town it once was, but it has fortunately managed to retain its easy-going small town atmosphere. Traveling south from Buenos Aires, this is one of the first cities travelers discover in the spectacular Patagonian region.

Located on the rocky Atlantic coast of Argentina, roughly halfway between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, Puerto Madryn is characterized by its low-key yet vibrant township, shimmering bays, and lovely beaches which fill with vacationing Argentineans during the summer months. There are 7 bathing resorts in the area, teeming with excellent lodging options, as well as cozy restaurants and bars that come to life in the summer.

Puerto Madryn is most famous for its proximity to the beautiful Peninsula Valdes, a protected area where nature can be observed at its wildest, and arguably one of the most striking on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites. Colonies of sea lions, penguins, whales, and many other species pass through the peninsula every year, making it a perfect destination for marine observation on your Argentina travel adventure. 

What to do in Puerto Madryn

City Tour. Aside from the variety of nature-based excursions, Puerto Madryn also boasts a pleasant town atmosphere, providing a peaceful respite to visitors during their Argentina vacation. Knowledge seeking travelers will enjoy the city’s two excellent museums: the EcoCentro and the Oceanographic and Natural Sciences Museum. The former displays in interactive detail the marine ecosystems of the Atlantic Patagonia, while the latter specializes in the region’s natural and human history, flora and fauna, and oceanography.

Hit the beach. During the summer, the city’s wide beaches and calm waters provide an idyllic holiday spot, where the funky, laid back attitude of the locals and national tourists harmoniously compliments the gentleness of the weather.

Wildlife Tour. Wildlife enthusiasts will be in their element here, as two very important natural reserves are easily accessed from the city itself, offering numerous possible excursions. The main attraction in the region is without a doubt the Valdes Peninsula, the entrance of which is located approximately 50 miles from the city center. Marked by towering cliffs, sprawling reefs, and striking scenery, the peninsula is frequented by penguins, whales, orcas ,and sea lions among others species.

Bird watching. Just 2 hours south of Puerto Madryn lies the equally stunning Punta Tombo Natural Reserve. Open from September to April, the reserve is a haven for bird watchers. Aside from the penguins which come here to mate and nest, flocks of king and rock cormorants, giant petrels, kelp gulls, and oystercatchers populate the reserve.

When to visit Puerto Madryn

From December to March, Puerto Madryn awakes as flocks of local tourists overcome its beautiful beaches and create a lively nightlife, perfect for those looking to relax on the coast and mingle with the local population.

Travelers seeking the thrill of spotting the tip of a whale springing from the dark waters should come between June and December, when Southern White Whales migrate to the area. Younger whales are best seen in September and October.

Sea lions can be observed throughout the year, and breeding season happens between December and January. Penguins grace the shores of the peninsula from September to April.

Travel Testimonials

Thank you so much for the perfect vacation to Puerto Madryn! Everything went as planned and all the sites exceeded our expectations. We all enjoyed the penguin colony and whale watching. However, my son's favorite was the visit to the Welsh Tea House! Our transfers were on time and the hotel was great with plenty of room and an amazing view of the bay. Argentina is a beautiful and impressive country and I would recommend anyone who has a chance to visit.

Stephanie Berdis, USA, traveled to Puerto Madryn in December 2010

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We are back home from the trip. We really enjoyed Argentina. All the arrangements were good. We were very impressed with the All Patagonia travel agency.
Overall I think the trip was well organized and I thank you for the quick turn around on a short notice. I would recommend your services to others. Hoping to work with you in the future.

Alla Piltser, USA, traveled to Puerto Madryn in April 2011

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Puerto Madryn Hotels

Hotel Territorio 5*

Bv. Almirante Brown 3251

Hotel Territorio in Punta Cuevas, Puerto Madryn, is a top-notch boutique hotel with splendid views of the Gulfo Nuevo. The hotel's prime location and opulent amenities are well complimented by the attentive, friendly staff. 36 guest rooms are carefully decorated with modern touches, and all have views of the sea, plus mini-bars, dressing rooms, TV, telephone, safe-deposit boxes, energy controls, and card key door locks. There is also a gym and spa with Jacuzzi, Scottish shower, massages, and special treatments available.  The hotel's restaurant serves exquisite Patagonian cuisine and the wine cellar is well stocked with Argentina's best wines.

Hotel Territorio Photos »

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Hotel Peninsula Valdes 4*

Julio A. Roca 151, Puerto Madryn

Located right on the beach in Puerto Madryn, Hotel Peninsula Valdes is a warm and inviting beach house hotel, where each and every detail is carefully considered to make your Argentina vacation as comfortable as it can be. The 76 ample rooms offer gorgeous sea views, air conditioning, cable TV, telephone, internet access, and spacious bathrooms with hair dryers. The hotel also features 24 hour room service, a full service bar, a laundry service, safe-deposit boxes, computers with internet access, and a spa with a gym, sauna, Jacuzzi tubs, and health care professionals to help you relax and enjoy your vacation to the fullest.

Hotel Peninsula Valdes Photos »

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Hotel Tolosa 3*

Roque Saenz Pena 253, Puerto Madryn

The stylish Hotel Tolosa is ideally located a mere two blocks from the waterfront. It features comfortable guest rooms of varying sizes, including triple and quadruple rooms. Some of these rooms include hydro-massage, mini bars, and many more great amenities. Standard services include buffet breakfast, internet, and even a bicycle to take self-guided tours around the waterfront or the city. The hotel's cafeteria serves delicious light snacks, and other amenities include 24 hour room service, parking, dry cleaning and laundry, babysitting, safe-deposit boxes, and luggage storage.

Hotel Tolosa Photos »

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