Visiting Peninsula Valdés in the off-season (winter, June to August) can be a unique experience, but it depends on what you’re looking to get out of the trip.

Pros of Visiting Peninsula Valdes in Winter

1. Fewer Crowds: Winter is the off-season for tourists, so you’ll likely have a more peaceful, less crowded experience.

2. Lower Prices: Hotels and tours are often cheaper in the off-season, so you can enjoy more affordable accommodation and excursions.

3. Different Wildlife: While the main whale-watching season (southern right whales) is from June to December, winter can still offer sightings of sea lions, elephant seals, and some migrating birds. You can also enjoy some small penguin colonies on the nearby coast.

4. Stunning Landscapes: The stark, windswept landscapes of the region are dramatic and beautiful in the winter months, with snow-capped mountains and a serene, less bustling atmosphere.

Peninsula Valdes Tour With Estancia San Lorenzo

Discover the captivating wildlife of Peninsula Valdés with Estancia San Lorenzo. Penguin colonies and scenic landscapes await!

• Peninsula Valdes

From Price: USD 210

SEE TOUR

Cons of Visiting in Winter:

1. Cold Weather: Temperatures can be quite chilly, ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), and the winds can make it feel even colder. You’ll need to be prepared for this.

2. Limited Activities: Some tours or accommodations might operate on reduced schedules or be closed in the off-season. The wildlife viewing might not be as abundant as in peak seasons (summer months).

3. Less Accessibility: Some remote areas may be harder to access due to weather conditions, including rougher roads.

Puerto Piramides Whale Watching Tour

Experience unforgettable whale watching in Puerto Pirámides, Argentina. Get up close to Southern Right Whales on a regular boat. Book now!

From Price: USD 115

SEE TOUR

Animals You Can See in Winter in Peninsula Valdes

1. Southern Elephant Seals

   • These seals are one of the highlights of the winter season. You can see large colonies along the coastline, especially at locations like Punta Delgada and Punta Norte. Winter is their breeding season, so you’ll get to see mothers with their pups and bulls fighting for dominance.

2. Sea Lions

   • Sea lions are also present year-round at Punta Norte and Punta Delgada. During winter, they are still very active, though it might not be the peak time for their pups.

3. Magellanic Penguins

   • Although the breeding season typically starts in spring, some penguins can still be found in their colonies in places like Punta Tombo. It´s not the best season for penguins anyway

4. Birds

   • Winter is a great time for birdwatching, as the region is home to a variety of bird species. You might spot Andean condors, flamingos, black-necked swans, and various species of ducks, geese, and gulls. The colder weather often attracts migratory species.

5. Whales (limited sightings)

   • While the main whale-watching season starts in late spring, you might still catch the tail end of the southern right whales‘ migration, as they start arriving in June and continue into December. The best months for whale watching are in the spring and early summer, so sightings during the winter months can be less frequent, but still possible.

6. Guanacos

   • These camelids are often seen roaming the arid, windswept landscapes of the peninsula year-round. In winter, they may be more visible as they graze for food in the cold.

7. Small Mammals

   • Species such as Patagonian Mara (a type of small hare) and red foxes are also present. They are less commonly seen but still active during the winter months.

Punta Loma Sea Lions Natural Reserve

Embark on an unforgettable adventure. Encounter playful sea lions, admire breathtaking coastal views, and explore historic landmarks.

From Price: USD 50

SEE TOUR

Overall Verdict

If you’re okay with the cold and are seeking a more tranquil, budget-friendly experience with an emphasis on landscapes and certain wildlife (without the heavy tourist crowds), winter can still be a great time to visit Peninsula Valdés. However, if you’re looking for the peak wildlife experiences, especially with whales, summer (November to March) is the better choice.