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Estancia La Ernestina is a historic 15,000-hectare sheep ranch located on Península Valdés in Argentina, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its rich biodiversity. Established in 1907 by the Copello family, the ranch has been traditionally dedicated to merino wool production.
One of the most remarkable natural phenomena associated with La Ernestina is the unique hunting behavior of orcas (killer whales) along its coastline. In the pebble beaches near Punta Norte, a small group of orcas has mastered the art of intentional stranding to capture sea lion pups and occasionally elephant seals. This behavior, observed nowhere else in the world, offers visitors a rare opportunity to witness these apex predators in action.
Enjoy this amazing 5-night program including all the meals and daily visits to the beach to see the amazing orcas
Arrive to the Estancia and welcome. Arrival to the area is usually by the airports in either Trelew or Puerto Madryn. Trelew is 240 km and Puerto Madryn is 170 km from the estancia. Transfer to and from the airport or your accomodations in Trelew or Puerto Madryn can be arranged in advance. If you wish to drive to the estancia yourself, please be aware that the road from the main highway to Punta Norte is poorly maintained and can be treacherous. There is adequate parking at the estancia if you arrive in your own vehicle. All driving during the trip is in our Land Rovers.
We include meals and all the activities to see the Orcas in action!
The field portion of our activities is spent at the beaches on the property. These beaches include Medina Bay, the Palo, and a stretch of beaches to the east and south of the accommodations. Our time is split between the beaches depending on the weather and tides, as well as the activity and movements of the orca. We also spend a considerable amount of time at the Faro. This is the Punta Norte lighthouse which is built on the highest hill and provides a base of operations to spot orca and plan our movements and strategies. Entire days can be spent at the Faro, but this lookout provides us the best strategic advantage during certain tidal phases.
Overnight
Activitites in the beach to watch the orcas included. Meals are also included. Overnight
It´s our final day. Check out and free time until your transfer (remember you can book transfers with our company)
Estancia La Ernestina is open from March to May each year.
The estancia is open for the orca season between March and early May. The reason for this seasonality is the timing of when the recently born sea lion pups are entering the water and learning to swim.
Yes, just let us know and we will quote this extra
Yes, contact us. We can quote a program including a ret a car service
No, the minimum stay for Estancia La Ernestina is 5 nights
Yes! of course. We can add nights in Puerto Madryn or Puerto Piramides and add visits to the Peninsula Valdes to see other animals
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