SIB Cruise Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes – Pto Madryn – Patagonia Argentina

Situated along Argentina’s Patagonian coast, the UNESCO-protected Peninsula Valdes is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts. The SIB Cruise Shore Excursion offers a convenient way to explore this incredible wildlife haven, departing right from the port of Puerto Madryn. From spotting whales and orcas to admiring the region’s dramatic landscapes, this guided tour promises an immersive experience in one of South America’s natural wonders. With convenient inclusions and a small group size, it’s an opportunity to discover Patagonia’s captivating beauty and diversity up close.

Good To Know

• A Patagonia shore excursion from Puerto Madryn that visits the UNESCO-protected Peninsula Valdes nature reserve to observe endangered wildlife like whales, orcas, and seals.
• The tour departs from the Luis Piedra Buena Cruise Port and includes an air-conditioned vehicle, box lunch, and water, but not the nature reserve entrance fee.
• Key highlights include wildlife sightings, such as guanacos, piches, and native birds, as well as scenic viewpoints along the Nuevo and San Jose gulfs.
• The excursion is limited to 22 travelers for a more personalized experience, and feedback suggests mixed reviews regarding transportation comfort and animal proximity.
• The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start and bookable through Waira Travel.

Overview of Peninsula Valdes

The Peninsula Valdes is a 3,625 km² nature reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of nine such sites in Argentina.

It’s home to endangered species like whales, orcas, penguins, elephant seals, sea lions, dolphins, porpoises, guanacos, and rheas.

The best time to visit is September to March when animal concentrations are highest.

Visitors can expect to see a variety of wildlife on a safari-style crossing of the peninsula, including sightings of guanacos, piches, choiques, maras, gray foxes, killer whales, sea elephants, sea lions, penguins, and native birds.

The tour includes stops at scenic viewpoints overlooking the Nuevo and San Jose gulfs.

Tour Departure and Meeting Point

The Peninsula Valdes excursion departs from the Luis Piedra Buena Cruise Port in Puerto Madryn.

The meeting point is located at Av. Guillermo Rawson 109, U9120 Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina.

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a box lunch, and one bottle of water per person.

All fees and taxes are covered, but the entrance fee to Peninsula Valdes, approximately $15 USD per person, isn’t included.

The tour group is limited to a maximum of 22 travelers.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This excursion includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a box lunch, and one bottle of water per person.

All required fees and taxes are also covered. However, the entrance fee to the Peninsula Valdes nature reserve, approximately USD 15 per person, isn’t included.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 22 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Whether you’re seeking to explore the unique wildlife or simply appreciate the stunning natural landscapes, this excursion provides the essentials to make the most of your visit to the UNESCO-protected Peninsula Valdes.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors on this excursion can expect to visit an interpretation center that provides insightful information about the local fauna inhabiting the peninsula. After, the tour embarks on a safari-style crossing of the Valdes Peninsula, offering opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife. Guests may encounter guanacos, piches, choiques, maras, gray foxes, killer whales, sea elephants, sea lions, penguins, and an array of native birds. The tour also includes stops at scenic viewpoints to appreciate the stunning gulfs of Nuevo and San Jose.

Wildlife Sightings
Guanacos
Piches
Choiques
Maras
Gray Foxes

Wildlife Sightings

On this excursion, visitors may spot a variety of native wildlife roaming the Valdes Peninsula. The peninsula is home to endangered species like whales, orcas, penguins, elephant seals, sea lions, dolphins, and porpoises.

Guests may also catch glimpses of guanacos, rheas, and migratory birds. Safari-style vehicle crossings of the peninsula offer opportunities to observe these unique creatures in their natural habitats.

Key sightings can include guanacos, piches, choiques, maras, and gray foxes. Whale and sea elephant viewings are highlights, especially during the September to March peak season when animal concentrations are highest.

The diverse wildlife makes this UNESCO World Heritage Site a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts.

Scenic Viewpoints

The excursion makes several stops at scenic viewpoints along the Valdes Peninsula, allowing guests to appreciate the region’s dramatic gulfs and coastlines. Visitors can gaze out over the vast expanse of the Gulfs of Nuevo and San Jose, taking in the rugged beauty of the windswept shorelines. These vistas provide a perfect opportunity to capture breathtaking photographs and soak in the serene atmosphere of this natural wonderland.

Gulf	Characteristics	Wildlife
Nuevo Gulf	Expansive, dramatic coastline	Guanacos, maras, and migratory birds
San Jose Gulf	Crescent-shaped, turquoise waters	Sea lions, elephant seals, and orcas
Valdes Peninsula	UNESCO World Heritage Site	Diverse array of endangered species

Customer Feedback

According to reviews, the Peninsula Valdes excursion has received mixed feedback from customers.

While some praised the knowledgeable guides and unique wildlife experiences, others noted long travel times, poor translation services, crowded conditions, and rough roads.

Notable comments highlighted a good variety of wildlife, but disappointment in the proximity to animals compared to past visits.

The tour has an average rating of 4.0 out of 22 total reviews.

Key customer feedback includes:

• Knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation
• Long travel times and crowded conditions
• Poor translation services and rough roads
• Diverse wildlife, but limited animal proximity

Booking and Accessibility

Passengers can book the Peninsula Valdes excursion with confidence, as confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and is conveniently located near public transportation.

Customers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The excursion is operated by Waira Travel, and prices start from $150.00.

With these convenient booking options and accessibility features, travelers can focus on the exciting wildlife encounters and scenic views that await them on the Peninsula Valdes excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Excursion?

The excursion offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Travelers can cancel their booking without penalty if they notify the tour operator within this timeframe.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

Yes, there is an option to upgrade to a private tour. Guests can upgrade for an additional fee and enjoy a more personalized experience with a dedicated vehicle and guide. The private tour provides more flexibility in the itinerary.

Are There Any Restrictions on Luggage or Photography?

There are no specific restrictions on luggage or photography for this tour. Passengers can bring small bags and cameras, but large or bulky items may not be accommodated. Photography is generally permitted, though respect for wildlife should be maintained.

Can the Tour Accommodate Special Dietary Requirements?

The tour can accommodate special dietary requirements. Travelers should notify the tour operator in advance so appropriate arrangements can be made for any dietary needs or restrictions.

What Is the Typical Group Size for This Excursion?

The typical group size for this excursion is a maximum of 22 travelers per tour. The tour operator give you an exclusive experience for cruise passengers with regular shared tours.

The Sum Up

The SIB Cruise Shore Excursion to Peninsula Valdes offers travelers an unforgettable opportunity to explore one of Argentina’s natural wonders. With its air-conditioned transport, box lunch, and knowledgeable guides, the tour promises sightings of diverse wildlife and breathtaking coastal views. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable Patagonian adventure, this excursion is not to be missed.