Punta Tombo & Isla Escondida
Penguins and elephant seals in a single journey
A journey along the Patagonian coast combining the intimacy of Isla Escondida with the scale of Punta Tombo.
From US$ 150
The experience
The day begins early in the morning with pick-up directly from your hotel or accommodation in Puerto Madryn or Trelew. The operator does not set a fixed departure time, as excursions adapt to the conditions and logistics of each day. We travel south through Chubut Province. On entering Trelew, we make a brief photo stop by the replica of the giant dinosaur that welcomes visitors to the city before continuing toward the coast. Our first major experience is Isla Escondida, a wild beach away from the busiest routes. Here, a natural elephant-seal haul-out allows us to observe the animals in the wild. Accompanied by the guide, we walk along the sand while always keeping a safe distance and respecting their natural behavior. We then continue to Punta Tombo Reserve, one of the great sanctuaries of the Magellanic penguin. We follow its interpretation trail as penguins move freely between their nests, the steppe and the sea. Depending on the time of season, we may see them building nests, incubating eggs, tending chicks or preparing to return to the ocean. Along the way there is also a chance to spot other Patagonian steppe species such as guanacos, maras, rheas, armadillos and foxes. The visit also includes the Punta Tombo Interpretation Center, where we can learn more about the region’s flora and fauna, discover the underwater environment and understand the ecosystem that sustains this vast colony. During the day we stop at the reserve’s only snack bar, where simple meals such as hot dishes, empanadas or sandwiches can be purchased independently. Guests may also bring their own packed lunch. After the visit, we begin the return to Puerto Madryn or Trelew. Important: the operator does not establish an exact return time or rigid duration. The excursion is sold as a full-day activity and the itinerary may adapt to weather, road conditions and wildlife dynamics.
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The place
South of Puerto Madryn, the Chubut coast brings together the vastness of the steppe and beaches open to the Atlantic. Isla Escondida preserves a wild setting with virtually no infrastructure, chosen by elephant seals as a natural haul-out. Farther south, Punta Tombo is home to one of the largest mainland colonies of Magellanic penguins, which return each season to breed, nest and raise their chicks.
Why we love it
Because it brings two emblematic Patagonian species together in a single day, both in completely natural settings. The experience changes with the season: penguins may be arriving from the ocean, incubating eggs or feeding their chicks, while Isla Escondida offers a quieter, wilder encounter with elephant seals.
Two natural sanctuaries, one completely wild Patagonia.
Included
- Round-trip transfer from Puerto Madryn or Trelew.
- Transportation throughout the route.
- Bilingual guide.
- Visit to Isla Escondida.
- Elephant seal observation.
- Visit to Punta Tombo.
- Walk along the reserve trails.
- Magellanic penguin observation.
- Visit to the Punta Tombo Interpretation Center.
Not included
- Entrance fee to Punta Tombo Reserve.
- Lunch.
- Drinks.
- Personal expenses.
- Any other services not expressly mentioned.
What to bring
- Comfortable walking clothes.
- Warm layers.
- Waterproof and windproof jacket.
- Comfortable closed shoes with good grip.
- Sun hat or cap.
- Sunglasses.
- Sunscreen.
- Water.
- Snack or packed lunch if you prefer not to purchase lunch at the reserve.
- Binoculars, optional for wildlife viewing.
- Camera or phone with sufficient battery.
Accessibility
At Punta Tombo, some sections of the boardwalk are adapted, but not all trails are accessible to guests with reduced mobility. The vehicles used do not have ramps or lifts; passengers must be able to get in and out using the steps independently or with help from a companion. Guests with sensory or cognitive disabilities may take part provided they travel with their own companion. If traveling with a wheelchair or other mobility aid, this must be advised before booking so available vehicle space can be confirmed.
Recommendations
Wildlife is free-ranging, so the number of animals present and their behavior cannot be guaranteed. Always follow the guide’s instructions and keep an appropriate distance. The penguin experience changes considerably throughout the season: in September they begin returning from the ocean; during October and November many remain on their nests incubating; between December and February activity increases markedly with the presence of chicks; and during March and April migration gradually begins. There are no restrooms or public services at Isla Escondida, as it is a wild, natural beach. We recommend using available facilities before reaching this area.
Restrictions
Suitable for all ages. Minors must travel with a responsible adult. Child safety seats and boosters are available on prior request. Following the instructions of the guide and wildlife rangers is mandatory.
Weather policy
The excursion is subject to weather and road conditions. Part of the route is on gravel roads and, if they become impassable, the guide may alter the itinerary and replace affected attractions with alternatives in the Lower Valley, such as Gaiman or Trelew. The operator may also reschedule the day or time, cancel, or partially modify the route due to adverse conditions. If the itinerary must be shortened or altered because of weather, tides or impassable roads, no refund applies. Only if the operator cancels the excursion entirely due to weather and cannot reschedule it within the stated stay will 100% of the amount paid be refunded. Wildlife sightings are also not guaranteed, and the absence of a particular species does not entitle guests to a refund.
Experience details
- Duration
- Approximately 8 hours
- Availability
- September, October, November, December
- Options
- Shared
- Activity level
- Low
- Suitable for children
- Yes
Best time to visitSeptember to March
LocationPuerto Madryn
Between penguins and giants of the sea
From a solitary beach inhabited by elephant seals to the trails of one of Patagonia’s great penguin colonies, this day invites you to observe nature without staged settings. A journey along the Chubut coast where the animals, the ocean and the unpredictable rhythm of wildlife take center stage.
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