Is Rawson Worth Visiting?
Rawson, the capital of Chubut Province, Argentina, is a small but charming coastal city. While it’s not as famous as nearby Puerto Madryn or Trelew, it has some interesting attractions, especially for those who enjoy nature, seafood, and a quiet atmosphere.
Where Rawson is located?
Rawson is the capital city of Chubut Province, located in Patagonia, Argentina. It sits on the Atlantic coast, near the mouth of the Chubut River, and is part of the Valdés region, famous for its incredible marine wildlife.
Key Location Facts
📍 Coordinates: 43°18′S 65°06′W
🌊 By the coast? Yes, near the Atlantic Ocean (Playa Unión).
🚗 Distance from major cities:
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Trelew – 18 km (15-minute drive)
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Puerto Madryn – 80 km (1-hour drive)
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Punta Tombo (Penguin Reserve) – 180 km (2.5-hour drive)
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Buenos Aires – 1,400 km (2-hour flight to Trelew + 20-minute drive)
Reasons to Visit Rawson
1️⃣ Playa Unión – The Main Attraction
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Located just 6 km from Rawson, this wide, windswept beach is a favorite for locals.
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Perfect for: Beach walks, enjoying fresh air, and relaxing by the sea.
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Dolphin Watching Tours 🐬 – One of the best places in Patagonia to see the toninas overas (Commerson’s dolphins)!
📍 Best time for dolphin watching: Summer (December – March).
2️⃣ Fresh Seafood & Local Cuisine
Rawson is known for its excellent seafood, especially in Playa Unión. Some must-try dishes include:
✔ Langostinos (Argentinian prawns) – Some of the best in the country!
✔ Seafood empanadas
✔ Grilled fish & paella
📍 Where to eat? Try Mar y Meseta or El Pescador for fresh seafood.
Chubut River Valley Excursion
Embark on an immersive journey through Rio Chubut Valley, where paleontology, Welsh heritage, and scenic charm await. Unforgettable experiences awaits
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Adventure
From Price: USD 115
Chubut River Valley Excursion
Embark on an immersive journey through Rio Chubut Valley, where paleontology, Welsh heritage, and scenic charm await. Unforgettable experiences awaits
- Adventure
From Price: USD 115
3️⃣ The Port of Rawson – Authentic Fishing Vibes
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Rawson’s port is small but very active, with colorful fishing boats bringing in fresh seafood daily.
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A great spot for photos and to experience the local fishing culture.
4️⃣ Proximity to Other Attractions
Rawson is close to other major destinations in Chubut:
✅ Trelew (18 km) – Visit the MEF (Dinosaur Museum) and the Welsh town of Gaiman.
✅ Punta Tombo (180 km) – Home to one of the largest penguin colonies in the world.
✅ Puerto Madryn (80 km) – Famous for whale watching and marine wildlife.
Puerto Madryn Whale Watching Tour at Doradillo Beach
Immerse yourself in unforgettable Puerto Madryn whale watching tour. Witness majestic whales up close on expert-guided adventures.
From Price: USD 115
Is Rawson Worth Visiting?
⭐ Yes, if you:
✔ Love beaches, seafood, and dolphin watching.
✔ Want a quiet, local experience away from tourist crowds.
✔ Plan to visit Playa Unión or stop on the way to Trelew/Puerto Madryn.
❌ Maybe not, if you:
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Expect a lively city with many attractions (Rawson is small and quiet).
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Prefer whale watching (Puerto Madryn is the better choice).