Snorkeling With Sea Lions

Snorkeling with a colony of captivating sea lions in Patagonia’s Natural Reserve of Punta Loma offers visitors an unforgettable adventure. Under the guidance of experienced professionals, participants can enjoy the marine environment, observing these playful creatures as they gracefully glide through the clear waters. The opportunity to interact with the sea lions, coupled with the breathtaking Patagonian landscapes, creates a unique experience that truly captures the essence of nature’s wonders. But what makes this adventure truly remarkable is the chance to witness the sea lions’ playful behavior up close – an encounter that will leave a lasting impression on all who dare to explore this remarkable corner of the world.

Key Points

• Unique opportunity to snorkel alongside a colony of friendly and curious single-furred sea lions in the Natural Reserve of Punta Loma, Patagonia, Argentina.
• Professional instructors provide guided snorkeling sessions with strong emphasis on safety and environmental protection, ensuring a responsible and memorable experience.
• Participants can marvel at the rugged Patagonian landscapes during the 25-minute boat trip to the snorkeling site, adding to the overall adventure.
• Flexible booking options, including a "Reserve Now & Pay Later" policy, and a generous cancellation policy provide convenience and peace of mind for travelers.
• Activity is suitable for a wide range of participants, from ages 6 to 60, with specific restrictions in place for certain health conditions and weight limits.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

Snorkeling with single-furred sea lions takes place at the Natural Reserve of Punta Loma in Patagonia, Argentina.

The activity lasts 2 hours, with 40 minutes spent snorkeling. Groups are limited to 9 participants, who’ll be guided by professional instructors fluent in English, Spanish, French, Italian, and Portuguese.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

The experience highlights the unique interaction with the stable population of around 600 friendly sea lions, showcased during a 25-minute boat trip to the site, allowing visitors to take in the stunning Patagonian landscapes.

Interaction With Sea Lions

Visitors can expect a unique and captivating encounter with the colony of single-furred sea lions during the snorkeling activity. The sea lions are well-known for their friendly and curious nature, often swimming alongside participants and even approaching them.

Snorkelers can observe the graceful movements and playful behaviors of these marine mammals up close. The stable population of around 600 sea lions ensures a reliable experience year-round.

Instructors emphasize a strong respect for the animals and their environment, ensuring no manipulation or disturbance occurs. With 100% supervision by professionals, participants can safely enjoy this remarkable wildlife interaction in Patagonia’s Natural Reserve of Punta Loma.

Patagonian Landscapes

The 25-minute boat trip to the snorkeling site treats participants to a captivating showcase of Patagonia’s rugged, windswept landscapes. Towering cliffs, carved by the relentless wind and waves, rise dramatically from the churning waters. Vast, rolling pampas stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted with hardy, wind-sculpted vegetation. The region’s unique geology and harsh climate have shaped a strikingly beautiful, yet unforgiving environment. Participants will marvel at the raw, untamed beauty of this remote corner of Argentina during their journey to the sea lion colony.

Patagonian Landscape Features
Towering Cliffs	Windswept Pampas	Sculpted Vegetation	Harsh Climate

Diving Gear and Safety

Upon arrival at the snorkeling site, participants are provided with all the necessary diving gear to ensure a safe and comfortable underwater experience. The equipment includes 7mm neoprene wetsuits, gloves, hoods, masks, snorkels, and fins.

For colder waters, a dry suit is available for an additional cost of $25.

Throughout the activity, participants are under the 100% supervision of professional instructors, who ensure proper use of the equipment and monitor the group’s safety.

The company prioritizes the wellbeing of both the participants and the marine environment, adhering to strict guidelines to minimize disturbance to the sea lions and their habitat.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Inclusions and Services

The snorkeling excursion with the sea lions includes a boat trip with a professional crew, consisting of a captain and experienced instructors.

This boat ride allows visitors to marvel at the Patagonian landscapes on the way to the snorkeling site.

Once there, participants gain entry to the Natural Reserve of Punta Loma, where the sea lion colony resides.

Refreshments, including water, coffee, tea, and a snack, are provided during the experience.

For those who want to capture their encounter with the sea lions, a photo and video service is available for an additional $20 fee.

Participation Guidelines

Participants must meet certain age and health requirements to take part in the snorkeling adventure with the sea lions.

The minimum age is 6 years, while the maximum age is 60 years. Children under 5 and pregnant women aren’t permitted.

Individuals with heart or respiratory issues, those over 287 lbs (130 kg), and those with pre-existing medical conditions are also ineligible.

The meeting point is the Blue tower painted with sea lions, at the company’s location, "Lobo Larsen."

Certain items are prohibited, including pets, smoking, jewelry, chewing gum, feeding animals, touching marine life, cellphones, alcoholic drinks, strong fragrances, and making noise.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Customers can cancel their snorkeling reservations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Beyond the 24-hour window, a cancellation will result in the forfeiture of the paid amount. The company offers a flexible "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option, allowing customers to book the experience without an immediate payment.

Cancellation Policy
Time Before Activity	Refund Amount
24+ hours	100% Refund
Less than 24 hours	No Refund
No-Show	No Refund
Rescheduling	Subject to availability, no fees

Meeting Location

After reviewing the flexible cancellation policy, it’s time to discuss the meeting location for the snorkeling experience.

Participants will meet at the Blue tower painted with sea lions, which serves as the company’s name "Lobo Larsen." This distinctive landmark makes it easy for guests to find the starting point for their aquatic adventure.

The meeting point provides a convenient and easily recognizable location for the group to gather before embarking on the 25-minute boat trip to the snorkeling site.

With clear directions and a recognizable meeting spot, guests can feel confident in arriving on time and ready to enjoy the unique opportunity to encounter the friendly single-furred sea lions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Typical Behavior of the Sea Lions During the Activity?

The sea lions are generally friendly and curious, often approaching the snorkelers closely to investigate. They may swim alongside the participants, occasionally even allowing gentle touches, creating an immersive and memorable experience for all involved.

How Close Can Participants Get to the Sea Lions?

Participants can get quite close to the sea lions, though they’re instructed to maintain a respectful distance and avoid touching or interacting directly. The sea lions are typically curious and friendly, often swimming up to snorkelers to investigate.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Use of Cameras and Photography?

The activity allows participants to take photos and videos during the snorkeling experience. However, the use of cellphones and strong fragrances is prohibited to minimize disturbance to the sea lions and their environment.

What Is the Temperature of the Water During the Activity?

The water temperature during the snorkeling activity is typically around 10-12°C (50-54°F) due to the cold Patagonian currents. Participants are provided with 7mm neoprene wetsuits to keep them warm and comfortable throughout the 40-minute snorkeling experience.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Participants can’t bring their own snorkeling equipment. The activity provides full diving gear, including wetsuits, gloves, hoods, masks, snorkels, and fins. This ensures the proper equipment and a safe experience for all participants.

Recap

Snorkeling with the friendly sea lions of Punta Loma is a one-of-a-kind experience that allows visitors to enjoy Patagonia’s natural beauty. With the guidance of professionals, travelers can safely observe these playful creatures up close, creating lasting memories of their encounter with the region’s captivating wildlife. The stunning Patagonian landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: