Punta Tombo Penguin Colony Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Visit Punta Tombo Penguin Colony
- Observe Magellan's penguins up close
- Explore Patagonia's wildlife
- Enjoy scenic coastal views
- Learn from expert guides
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Professional guide
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Gratuities
Itinerary
You'll go to Punta Tombo, a geographical accident that Magellan's penguin uses as habitat (entrance fee not included). It is located at 3 hours from Puerto Madryn, on the road you will have time to appreciate Patagonian lanscapes. At this stop, you'll have the chance to watch penguins in their own habitat as they scurry and play on the rocks. There, you'll have time to observe how the penguins coexist on the coast with other species, such as Gulls, Skúas, Giant Petrels, Cormorants, Ostreros and Pato Vapor and, given the extension of the area, typical species of the steppe like Guanacos, Choiques, Maras and Grey Foxes. You'll spend approximately an hour and a half at this stop.
Before going back to Puerto Madryn, you will make a stop at the Rawson's Port. If you chose the Toninas watching navigation, you'll embark to observe the Overas Toninas. The Overa Toninas are recognized for their similarity to the dolphins. They are no longer than a meter and a half. Puerto Rawson is one of the few places in the world where they can be observed in their natural habitat. These daring species usually escort ships, playing and showing their skills to the visitors who have the possibility to watch the spectacle. The navigation lasts approximately an hour and a half. The ones who didn't choose the navigation will have some free time to explore the port and why not enjoy a see food table (not included). You will be back to Puerto Madryn around 5 pm.
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour duration is approximately 9 hours, including travel time.
- Lunch is provided during the tour; inform the operator of any dietary restrictions in advance.
- This tour involves walking on uneven paths; ensure you're comfortable with moderate physical activity.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect against sun exposure.
- Carry a camera to capture the stunning wildlife and landscapes.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Good to know
- The stop at the Rawson's Port is subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be able to stay longer at Punta Tombo, main stop of this tour and you will be given a full refund of the Toninas navigation in case you payed for this option.
- Season: From September to Mid-April
- Please note that lunch will be taken in the car, as we won't have time to stop : the road trip will take approx. 6 hours (round-trip). We suggest you to prepare sandwiches, if not you will still be able to buy food when we stop on the road.
- Cruise Passengers are not allowed to take this tour
- The option Punta Tombo Penguin Colony without Toninas is subject to changes in the itinerary. Can be changed from Playa Union to Gaiman.
Traveler reviews
excellent penguin experience
most spectacular 'close encounters' with penguins and guanacos (wild llamas) imaginable...the one mile hike along the boardwalk affords the viewers countless very close encourters with penguins and their gosslings, as well as the occasional encounter with a guanaco.
Punta Tombo is a great place but no tour needed
The guide was very nice. But it’s not worth taking a tour, better just find a way to get to Punta Tombo as you basically just walk in the reserve by yourself. They take you to a tea house after, note that you can just not go and go for a walk as it’s the experience is so-so. 8k for tea + a (very very big) spread of butter toast, cakes and scones.
Highly recommended!
A wonderful tour seeing so many penguins so close! And the toninas as well. Our guide was a real pro, very knowledgeable and really loving his job! Highly recommended tour that I would love to do again some dayz
Amazing experience!
A great tour to absolutely do if you’re in Puerto Madryn. Very well-organized and our tour guide was super!
Unmissable
On the coast of Chubut province and at the corresponding time of year, there is nothing that compares to the experience of going to see penguins in their habitat. The penguin is the main activity they must carry out in this region. There is also a small museum and Guanacos. (Entry fee may be paid in cash only).
