How to Experience Punta Tombo Penguin Reserve in Puerto Madryn

Puerto Madryn is home to one of the world’s largest colonies of Magellanic Penguins, the Punta Tombo Penguin Reserve. Initially established in 1986 and now covering over 1,500 hectares, this is a must-see destination if you find yourself in the Patagonia region of Argentina. Whether you want to visit Punta Tombo while doing a day tour from Puerto Madryn, or create your own itinerary, here is how you should approach it.

Finding the Reserve

Punta Tombo Penguin Reserve is located roughly a three-hour drive east of Trelew and just under two hours outside of Puerto Madryn. The coastal drive is relatively easy and offers plenty of opportunities for the occasional rest stop to take in the breathtaking views of Patagonia’s stunning nature and landscape. Once you arrive in Punta Tombo, it is easily accessible by foot as there are marked pathways that lead from the parking area to the Magellanic Penguins’ nesting grounds.

The Magellanic Penguins

The highlight of Punta Tombo Penguin Reserve are of course the hundreds of thousands of Magellanic Penguins who visit the site each year to nest and raise their young. Due to their primitive structure, Magellanic Penguins are slow but sure swimmers and as a result, their breeding grounds must be located close to shore in order for them to survive. Despite their waddling walk and short wingspan, these animals are incredibly fast when running on land and are among the fastest dinosaurs you will ever encounter. The birds nest from mid-September to mid-April with females laying two eggs around early November and then taking turns sitting on them for roughly 38 days before they hatch. The eggs usually hatch from mid-December onwards, leaving parents with newly hatched chicks that require constant feeding eight times a day for the first few weeks. Unlike other species, Magellanic Penguins do not feed their chicks with regurgitated food, but with fish that they consume close to their nesting sites. Late January and February is prime Penguin watching time as you will find penguins of all sizes, ages, and sizes at different stages in the breeding process.

The Boardwalk

The Punta Tombo Penguin Reserve has done an excellent job making its grounds easily accessible and relatively safe for visitors and the birds. The 2 km boardwalk allows you easy access to all areas where the Magellanic Penguins nest while minimizing your chances of coming in contact with them or their eggs. You may still encounter a few Paurosa Hawks, caranchos and skunks on your travels, but these animals will usually prefer keeping their distance from humans. Depending on where you start your tour, there are several ways you can reach the different parts of the Reserve.

Main Path

This path is relatively straightforward with simple signage pointing you in the right direction and helpful park rangers on some of the main trails. Running parallel to the beach, this path takes you from the entrance to the park along the shoreline and then towards the visitor center which is located close to the middle of it. Here you will learn all about the conservation programs taking place in Punta Tombo while experiencing some of the unique wildlife that calls this place home.

Girasol Path

Used mostly in winter months, this path leads away from the beach and passes several nesting sites before winding up in an area known as El Girasol (the sunflower). This is one of two spots in the park that is believed to not have been used by Magellanic Penguins until recently, making it an ideal spot to watch fledglings practice their first flying endeavors before they are ready to head out to sea. This track also has a few viewing platforms that offer spectacular views of the whole area and its inhabitants from afar.

Tips for visitors

• Be sure to wear appropriate footwear for walking on sandy surfaces and windy days.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water so that you can handle any unexpected weather conditions.
• Make sure to keep your distance from the nesting areas to reduce any unnecessary stress on both the adults and juveniles alike.
• Bring a pair of binoculars or a camera with a telephoto lens if you want to get up close without disturbing.

Conclusion

The Punta Tombo Penguin Reserve is an excellent place for wildlife enthusiasts or families looking for a different kind of adventure in Patagonia. Its easy accessibility and conservation efforts make it one of the must-visit destinations in this corner of Southern Argentina. At Punta Tombo, you will be able to experience nature and wildlife at its best while getting up close and personal with one of this planet’s most remarkable creatures. Make sure to plan ahead so you can get more out of your visit and be sure to book one of GetYourGuide’s amazing activities, such as an organized tour or a kayaking activity, so you can make the most out of your experience.