El Pedral Lodge
El Pedral Lodge is a historic and eco-friendly estancia located in Punta Ninfas, about 70 km south of Puerto Madryn, in Chubut Province, Argentina.
Situated at the southern entrance to the Golfo Nuevo, this property offers an authentic Patagonian steppe experience, combining history, nature, and comfort.
A bit of history and accommodation
Built in the early 20th century, the main house at El Pedral was constructed using materials and furniture brought from Europe, unloaded directly onto the estancia’s coast.
This unique architecture reflects the legacy of the pioneers who settled in the region.
The lodge offers cozy rooms decorated in a rustic yet elegant style, providing guests with an intimate and relaxing experience in the heart of nature.
Wildlife and Activities
El Pedral is known for its proximity to a Magellanic penguin colony, which can be visited between September and April.
The area is also home to elephant seals, sea lions, orcas, and a variety of Patagonian birds.
Guests can enjoy guided walks through the steppe, wildlife viewing, and visits to the historic Punta Ninfas Lighthouse, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Golfo Nuevo.
What to do at El Pedral Lodge?
The planning of activities during your stay may vary depending on the weather, wildlife sighting opportunities, length of stay, guests’ profiles, and more. The guide will determine the activities to be carried out each day.
During free time, guests can enjoy the swimming pool, use the bicycles to ride to the beach or explore the area.
Visit the Punta Ninfas Lighthouse
Departing from the lodge, just 10 km away, we drive to the high cliffs that characterize the coastline of the Península Valdés area.
At the southern tip of the mouth of Golfo Nuevo stands the Punta Ninfas Lighthouse, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the gulf.
It’s a great activity to enjoy at sunset or during a moonrise over the sea.
Observe the Elephant Seal Colony
The beaches at the foot of the cliffs in Punta Ninfas are the natural habitat of a significant elephant seal colony, where they can be seen in small groups throughout the year.
In mid-September, males arrive to “mark their territory” and later form and expand their harems.
We reach the site by vehicle, just 15 minutes from the house, at the end of the road leading to the Punta Ninfas Lighthouse, where there’s a path down to the beach.
Once on the coast, we can walk along the beach and observe the animals up close.
It’s very important not to disturb them—it is recommended to approach quietly and crouched, allowing for great photographs without making them feel threatened or invaded.
Guided Walk Among the Penguins
Each year in September, a growing colony of friendly Magellanic penguins settles at El Pedral.
A guided walk among their nests gives you the chance to learn more about these curious animals.
El Pedral supports beach cleaning and control programs and collaborates with the Global Penguin Society (GPS), which monitors the Magellanic penguin colony at Punta Ninfas.
Gastronomy and Services
The lodge offers full board service, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared with local ingredients.
Typical Patagonian dishes, such as grilled lamb, are a house specialty.
Guests can also relax by the outdoor pool or enjoy a traditional Welsh tea with homemade cakes—a regional custom.
Access and Season. Where is located El Pedral Lodge?
El Pedral is located about 1 hour by vehicle from Puerto Madryn, along gravel roads. The use of appropriate vehicles for unpaved roads is recommended.
The lodge offers transfers from Puerto Madryn and Trelew for guests who book accommodation packages. El Pedral is open to the public from September 15 to April 15, coinciding with the penguin and wildlife viewing season.
How to arrive to El Pedral Lodge?
El Pedral Lodge is located in Punta Ninfas, about 70–90 km southeast of Puerto Madryn, in the province of Chubut, Argentina. It sits at the southern entrance to Golfo Nuevo, on the Atlantic coast.
By Car (Self-Drive)
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From Puerto Madryn: ~1.5 to 2 hours
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Route:
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Take Route 1 (Ruta Provincial 1) south from Puerto Madryn
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After about 20–30 km, the road turns to gravel
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Continue following signs for El Pedral or Punta Ninfas
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Follow the gravel road for approximately 40–50 km until reaching the lodge
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Important Notes:
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The last stretch is gravel road (“ripio”), which can be bumpy but passable by most cars
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No cellphone signal in the area—use offline maps
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High-clearance vehicles are recommended, especially after rain
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Drive carefully: wildlife may be on or near the road
By Transfer (Recommended Option)
El Pedral offers organized transfers from:
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Puerto Madryn (hotels or airport)
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Trelew Airport (REL)
Pick-up times and transportation are arranged according to your reservation
Ideal for those who prefer not to drive in remote areas
Included with many of their overnight packages or day tour options
By Air (Closest Airports)
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El Tehuelche Airport (PMY) – Puerto Madryn (domestic flights)
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Almirante Marcos A. Zar Airport (REL) – Trelew (more frequent connections)
From either airport, you can arrange a transfer or drive to the lodge.
El Pedral Lodge: location map
Book a tour to visit El Pedral Lodge and Peninsula Valdes
The “Puerto Madryn, Peninsula Valdés, and El Pedral Lodge” tour offers an immersive Patagonian experience. Over several days, guests explore the UNESCO-listed Peninsula Valdés, renowned for its diverse marine wildlife, including whales, sea lions, and penguins. The journey includes visits to Puerto Pirámides, the only village within the peninsula, and the Welsh-influenced towns of Trelew and Gaiman. A highlight is the stay at El Pedral Lodge, a historic farmhouse offering comfort amidst nature. Activities encompass wildlife watching, cultural excursions, and relaxation in serene landscapes. The tour combines guided adventures with leisure, providing a comprehensive insight into Patagonia’s natural and cultural heritage.
