Orca watching in Peninsula Valdes: When to see these amazing animals
Orcas are great, the most incredible predator in the ocean. But Orcas are also, the most difficult tourist attraction that Peninsula Valdés can offer. Why? it`s not easy to see them, but it is surely the most brutal and intense experience. The peak season for “killer whales” is only 10 or 15 days. The Orcas attack time on sea lion pups is only two hours before until 2 hours after high tide. At that time the sea reaches where the sea lions rest. So, there is a small window of time to see them.
The sea lions, born at the beginning of the year, when March and April arrive, begin to separate from their mothers. They walk along the coast, having fun in the breakwater, they play to be older, they do not move away from the group of females that are on the beach, but they group and distract among them.
Those born in Punta Norte, and other wineries in the area with similar morphological characteristics, are in an area circumnavigated by the killer whales, who in their daily physiological need to feed, take advantage of this time of year to be tempted by these helpless and distracted creatures, that are exposed in the break of flat boulder beaches.
Only about 30 specimens of killer whales approach Punta Norte between early March and April. The sea lions do not listen to the advent of mothers, who with loud roars warn the presence of killer whales.
Peninsula Valdes Basic Pass
Immerse yourself in a mesmerizing world of whales, penguins, and marine wonders with our Peninsula Valdes Pass. Book now!
From Price: USD 345
Orcas in Peninsula Valdes: When to see Orcas?
Every day that passes, the wineries of Punta Norte are suffering casualties. In a good season of intentional stranding, approximately 10% of the offspring born in January become, orcas food. But the survivors, cruel witnesses of the sudden onslaught of the killer whales and the violent capture of a playmate, understand the law of survival and stop being so distracted in the break. They learn with the blows of life, they begin to be more alert and less exposed. By the end of April, the beginning of May, the size and cunningness of the wolves, creates in the killer whales the need to concentrate their energies on other food alternatives, relegating this bite for next year, in the next Orcas season
Diving With Sea Lions in Puerto Madryn
Diving with sea lions is one of the most exhilarating experiences you can have in the crystal-clear waters of Golfo Nuevo.
- Adventure
From Price: USD 299
Estancia La Ernestina: a perfect place to see Orcas during March, April and May
Estancia La Ernestina is a traditional, family-owned sheep ranch located on Península Valdés in Argentina, spanning over 15,000 hectares. Established in 1907, it is renowned for its extraordinary wildlife, particularly the unique behavior of orcas that intentionally beach themselves to hunt sea lion pups—something observed only in this region. This rare event occurs mainly in March and April near Punta Norte, attracting wildlife enthusiasts and photographers from around the world. The coastline is also home to elephant seals, Magellanic penguins, and southern right whales. The estancia offers simple yet comfortable accommodations with six en-suite rooms, along with traditional Patagonian meals and warm hospitality. Open during two main seasons—March to May and October to December—La Ernestina is accessible by rental car, though roads are unpaved and access is limited to protect the environment. Due to its exclusivity and the popularity of orca season, early booking is strongly recommended. A stay at La Ernestina promises a truly unforgettable Patagonian nature experience.
