The Punta Tombo 6-Hour Shore Excursion from Puerto Madryn offers visitors a chance to witness one of the world’s largest Magellanic penguin colonies. With roundtrip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a provided lunch, participants can enjoy the rich wildlife and stunning landscapes of this protected area. From observing the unique behaviors of these charismatic seabirds to exploring the diverse marine and land life, this small-group tour promises an unforgettable experience. However, the true wonder lies in the chance to connect with nature and uncover the secrets that make Punta Tombo a true gem of Argentina’s Patagonian coast.
Key Points
- Guided 6-hour tour of Punta Tombo, the largest continental reserve of Magellanic Penguins, with roundtrip transportation from Puerto Madryn.
- Opportunity to observe diverse marine wildlife, including penguins, gulls, cormorants, guanacos, armadillos, and more in their natural habitat.
- Tour includes an English and Spanish-speaking guide, box lunch, and a bottle of water per participant.
- Group size limited to less than 18 people for a personalized experience, with a private tour option available.
- Recommendations include comfortable clothing, a jacket, and extra camera batteries to capture the wildlife and landscapes.
Tour Overview and Details
The Punta Tombo Shore Excursion is a 6-hour guided tour that allows visitors to explore the largest continental reserve of Magellanic Penguins.
Departing from Puerto Madryn, the tour provides the opportunity to save up to 10% on the price, with options for free cancellation and reserve now, pay later.
A live tour guide fluent in multiple languages, including English and Spanish, accompanies the group. The excursion also offers a private group option for a more personalized experience.
Roundtrip transportation, a box lunch, and a bottle of water per person are included, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable day at the Punta Tombo Animal Reserve.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Chubut Province
Itinerary and Locations
Travelers have the option to start their Punta Tombo Shore Excursion from either the Muelle Comandante Luis Piedra Buena (Comandante Luis Piedra Buena Pier) or other designated pickup locations. The main activity is a guided tour and wildlife viewing at Punta Tombo, which lasts approximately 5.5 hours. Once the tour concludes, guests will be dropped off at the same starting points.
| Starting Location Options | Main Activity | Drop-off Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Muelle Comandante Luis Piedra Buena (Comandante Luis Piedra Buena Pier) | Guided tour and wildlife viewing at Punta Tombo (5.5 hours) | Same as starting points |
| Other designated pickup locations |
Please note that itineraries are subject to change.
Wildlife and Natural Features
Visitors will explore Punta Tombo Animal Reserve, the largest continental reserve of Magellanic Penguins.
They’ll observe a variety of marine birds, including kelp gulls, southern gulls, skuas, royal and rock cormorants.
On land, they may encounter guanacos, armadillos, maras, lesser rheas, and foxes.
The highlight, of course, will be witnessing the Magellanic Penguins in their natural habitat – nesting, breeding, engaged in territorial disputes, and vocalizing.
This diverse wildlife and natural landscape make Punta Tombo a true nature lover’s paradise, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the region’s exceptional biodiversity.
Inclusions and Group Size
This shore excursion includes an English and Spanish-speaking tour guide, with other languages available upon request. The tour also includes roundtrip transportation from the port, a box lunch, and a bottle of water per person. Plus, the entrance fee to Punta Tombo is covered.
The group size is limited to less than 18 people, ensuring a more personalized experience. If you prefer a private tour, that option is also available.
| Inclusions | Group Size |
|---|---|
| English & Spanish-speaking guide | Less than 18 people |
| Roundtrip transportation | Private tour available |
| Box lunch and water | |
| Punta Tombo entrance fee |
Recommendations and Important Information
To make the most of the Punta Tombo shore excursion, wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
Bring a jacket to prepare for variable weather conditions, and don’t forget to pack a camera, binoculars, and extra batteries to capture the stunning wildlife and landscapes.
The meeting point is marked by a blue sign with the participant’s name, so be sure to use Google Maps for easy navigation to the designated location.
Starting Location Options
Cruise passengers can board the Punta Tombo shore excursion from two starting location options: Muelle Comandante Luis Piedra Buena (Comandante Luis Piedra Buena Pier) or the main port. Both locations provide convenient pickup and drop-off points for the 6-7 hour excursion.
| Starting Location | Address |
|---|---|
| Muelle Comandante Luis Piedra Buena | Comandante Luis Piedra Buena Pier |
| Main Port | Puerto Madryn port |
Whichever starting point is selected, guests will embark on a guided tour to Punta Tombo, the largest continental reserve of Magellanic Penguins, to observe diverse local wildlife and natural landscapes.
Penguin Behavior and Observation
Visitors to Punta Tombo can observe the captivating behaviors of the Magellanic penguins that inhabit the reserve.
During the guided tour, guests will witness the penguins engaged in a variety of activities:
-
Nesting: Penguins work together to build their nests, often engaging in territorial disputes as they stake their claim.
-
Breeding: Penguins perform intricate mating rituals, including vocalizations, to attract mates and reproduce.
-
Parenting: Penguins take turns incubating their eggs and caring for their chicks, showcasing their strong parental instincts.
These observations offer a unique glimpse into the daily lives of these remarkable seabirds, making the Punta Tombo shore excursion a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.
Roundtrip Transportation and Lunch
The Punta Tombo shore excursion includes roundtrip transportation from the port, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience for guests. The tour company offers pickup and drop-off at either the Muelle Comandante Luis Piedra Buena (Comandante Luis Piedra Buena Pier) or the main meeting point. During the 6-7 hour tour, guests will enjoy a box lunch and a complimentary bottle of water, allowing them to focus on the wildlife viewing and exploration of the Punta Tombo Animal Reserve. The group size is limited to less than 18 people, providing a more personalized and intimate experience.
| Included in Tour | Details |
|---|---|
| Roundtrip Transportation | Pickup and drop-off at designated locations |
| Lunch | Box lunch provided |
| Water | Complimentary bottle of water |
| Group Size | Less than 18 people |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a box lunch is already included in the tour package, so bringing additional items is optional and at the discretion of the individual.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?
There is no minimum number of participants required for the tour. It’s a small group tour, with a maximum of 18 people, but the tour operator offers a private tour option for those who want a more exclusive experience.
How Accessible Is the Tour for People With Disabilities?
The tour aims to be as accessible as possible for people with disabilities. Wheelchair-accessible transportation is provided, and the Punta Tombo reserve has paved trails. However, the terrain can be uneven, so additional assistance may be required.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Guests can opt for a longer tour that allows more time for wildlife viewing and exploration at Punta Tombo. Additional fees may apply for the extended tour option.
What Animals Other Than Penguins Can I Expect to See?
On this tour, visitors can expect to see a variety of terrestrial wildlife, including guanacos, armadillos, maras (Patagonian hares), lesser rheas, and foxes, in addition to marine birds like kelp gulls, southern gulls, skuas, and rock and royal cormorants.
Recap
The Punta Tombo 6-Hour Shore Excursion from Puerto Madryn offers an immersive wildlife experience in the largest continental reserve of Magellanic Penguins. Travelers can observe unique penguin behaviors, explore diverse marine and land wildlife, and capture stunning photographs, all while enjoying roundtrip transportation, a guided tour, and a provided box lunch within a small group setting.
You can check if your dates are available here: