Trips and Leisure - Patagonia

The impressive whales:
At the beginning of the austral winter, whales regularly come to the San José Gulf and the Nuevo Gulf to perform the ritual which perpetuates the species. Scientists know each of them individually and also know if they return every year. Catapulted by the strength of their massive tails, whales leap practically clear off the water, displacing tons of water and foam as they crash back into the sea. A charming spectacle.

Enjoy unusual fauna:
Watch and take pictures of whales, killer whales, penguins, seals, sea elephants, and birds. Walk along the sandbanks at low tide and enjoy the coastal flora and fauna. Look for shells and sea snails.
Some suggestions:Bathe in the sulphur waters of the Termas de Copahue, 190 Km away from Zapala, which are well-known for their therapeutic qualities. Watch the birds in the Laguna Blanca National Park, 42 Km away from that city. Visit the Mapuche Indian groupings, most of which are on the shores of Lake Rucachoroi. Sail on the lakes in modern launches and catamarans.

At night:
Try your luck in the casinos of San Martín de los Andes, San Carlos de Bariloche, Viedma, Esquel, Puerto Madryn, Trelew, Comodoro Rivadavia and El Calafate.

Punta Bermeja

It is a fauna shelter located in the San Matías Gulf, 60 Km away from Viedma and 3 Km away from La Lobería holiday resort. From the footbridges built on rocky ledges, you can admire this place full of South American sea lions (seals), and habitat of Antarctic pigeons, cormorants, seagulls, and gaviotines (gull family).Further south, in the San Matías Gulf, you will see the reserve of Islote Lobos, Isla Pastora and Islote de los Pájaros, a seal reproduction colony where many birds have made their nests.

Puerto Madryn

This important tourist center is 67 Km to the north of Trelew and has beautiful beaches and waters where you can practice many water sports. We recommend a visit to the Ecocentro, center specialized in sea ecosystem interpretation. Punta Loma Natural Reserve is located 19 Km to the south of Puerto Madryn, and over 800 sea lion specimens live there all the year round.