Peninsula Valdes: Marine Wildlife Sanctuary

  • See the Southern Right Whale in Peninsula Valdes

Peninsula Valdes is a true marine wildlife lover’s paradise, offering unparalleled opportunities to observe a diverse array of marine species. The region boasts the world’s largest continental colony of Magellanic penguins and the largest territorial colony of elephant seals. It’s also one of the few places on Earth where you can encounter the charming and acrobatic Commerson’s Dolphin, often called the "panda dolphin" due to its distinctive black-and-white color.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Peninsula Valdes is celebrated for its vital natural habitats that support the conservation of several threatened species of outstanding universal value. Among them is one of the true stars of this destination: the Southern Right Whale. Once hunted to the brink of extinction, this rare and gentle giant is now one of the most awe-inspiring marine mammals to encounter.

The area is also home to colonies of sea lions, orcas (killer whales), and numerous other marine and terrestrial species, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. The wildlife you’ll encounter depends on the time of year you visit, as different species migrate through the region during specific seasons.