Punta Ninfas: Everything about this wild area near Puerto Madryn
What is Punta Ninfas?
Punta Ninfas is a wild, windswept headland located about 90 km south of Puerto Madryn in Argentine Patagonia. It guards the southern entrance to the Golfo Nuevo and is one of the best places in the region to see southern elephant seals up close in a completely natural and uncrowded setting.
There’s no town, no cafés, no boardwalks—just cliffs, wildlife, and the ocean. It’s a remote paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers.
Location: Chubut Province, Argentine Patagonia
Known for: Elephant seals, penguins, dramatic cliffs, raw nature
How to Get Punta Ninfas from Puerto Madryn?
Punta Ninfas is located near Puerto Madryn. Distance from Puerto Madryn: ~90 km / 2 hours
Road conditions are good, but last 50 km are gravel. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended. 4×4 not essential, but helpful especially after rains.
What to See & Do in Punta Ninfas?
Elephant Seals
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Peak Season: September to December (breeding season)
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Males can weigh over 4,000 kg!
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They lounge right on the beach, and you can often observe them just a few meters away (quietly and respectfully).
Magellanic Penguins
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Season: September to March
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Not as many as in Punta Tombo, but you’ll often spot some nesting along the coast.
Southern Right Whales
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Best Time: June to December (especially from the cliffs above)
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You might spot them breaching or tail-slapping in the Golfo Nuevo below.
Cliff Walks & Photography
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The rugged cliffs and endless ocean make for dramatic views and epic photo ops.
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Bring binoculars and a zoom lens if you’re into wildlife photography.
Where to Stay?
Punta Ninfas is very remote—most visitors come for the day. But for a truly immersive experience, consider staying overnight.
Estancia El Pedral
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The only lodge in the area
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Offers cozy accommodations, guided wildlife tours, and incredible home-cooked meals
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You can stay in a beautifully restored Patagonian house with all the rustic charm and modern comfort
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Often includes penguin colony access and seal watching as part of the stay
- See more about El Pedral Lodge here
What to Bring?
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Windproof jacket (seriously—it’s Patagonia)
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Water, snacks/lunch
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Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
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Good walking shoes
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Camera or binoculars
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Layered clothing (it can change quickly)
Tips & Warnings
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No cell service at Punta Ninfas—tell someone where you’re going
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Wildlife is wild—don’t get too close or try to touch them
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Leave no trace: take all your garbage with you
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Be careful near the cliff edges, especially on windy days
Is It Worth to visit Punta Ninfas?
Absolutely. If you’re looking for a place that feels like the edge of the world, where you can sit in silence and watch elephant seals loll on the sand as whales breach offshore, Punta Ninfas is magic. It’s not polished or touristy—but that’s its greatest charm.
Book a tour to visit Peninsula Valdes and Punta Ninfas
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.
