What to Expect
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Penguin Encounter
Every year, nearly one million Magellanic penguins return to Punta Tombo — the largest colony in Patagonia — to nest, hatch their chicks, and prepare for migration. This is your chance to walk among them in their natural habitat, just steps away from your cruise ship arrival in Puerto Madryn.
Your adventure begins the moment you disembark, as your professional guide welcomes you for a scenic 2.5-hour drive through the sweeping Patagonian steppe. On arrival at Punta Tombo, prepare to be amazed: thousands upon thousands of penguins stretching across the coastline, feeding their young, defending their burrows, and waddling freely just a few feet away.
The best time to visit is from November onwards, when fluffy chicks begin to appear — making this experience even more magical.
After exploring the coastal trails and witnessing one of nature’s greatest spectacles, you’ll return to Puerto Madryn with unforgettable memories and photographs that capture the true essence of Patagonia.
Duration
6–7 hours (designed around cruise ship schedules for a stress-free return)
Group Size
Small groups of 16–20 guests for a personalized, crowd-free experience
Itinerary Snapshot
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Meeting Point & Departure: Just outside the Port Exit door, ~30 minutes after docking. Look for your guide holding a “CALA TOUR” sign.
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Scenic Drive (2–2.5 hr): Journey through Patagonian landscapes with optional photo/rest stops.
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Punta Tombo Experience (1.5–2 hr): Walk along boardwalks and trails through the heart of the penguin colony.
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Return to Port: Guaranteed on-time arrival before cruise departure.
Wildlife & Scenic Highlights
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Walk among hundreds of thousands of Magellanic penguins in their rookery.
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Spot other Patagonian wildlife — guanacos, rheas, seabirds, and the occasional hare.
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Admire breathtaking coastal and steppe landscapes — a paradise for photographers and nature lovers.
Why Choose This Tour?
✔ Optimized for cruise passengers — seamless timing, no worries about missing departure
✔ Small groups for a more intimate, authentic experience (avoid the big cruise bus crowds!)
✔ Fully guided, bilingual commentary with rich insights into Patagonia’s wildlife and ecology
✔ Up-close encounters with penguins and Patagonian fauna — a true wildlife immersion
