The Southern Right Whale in Peninsula Valdés: A Complete Guide

Introduction to the Southern Right Whale

The Southern Right Whale is one of the most iconic marine species of Patagonia. These baleen whales are known for their slow, graceful movements, social behavior, and close proximity to the shore during their breeding season. Unlike other baleen whales that filter feed by gulping water, Southern Right Whales are skimmers, swimming with open mouths through krill-rich waters.

They can reach up to 15 meters in length and weigh up to 50 tons. At birth, calves already weigh around 1,500 kg. Females reach sexual maturity at around 9 years old and give birth every 3–4 years after a gestation period of about a year.

Whale Season: When to Go

The whale season in Peninsula Valdés and Puerto Madryn runs from early June to mid-December. The best time and location to view them depends on the month:

• June to mid-September: Best viewed from the beaches near Puerto Madryn, especially El Doradillo, where mothers and calves can be seen just meters from the shore.

• Mid-September to December: The whales move toward the north, making Puerto Pirámides in Peninsula Valdés the best base for sightings and boat tours.

Best Viewing Locations

• El Doradillo Beach: Unmatched shore-based whale watching. Easily accessible from Puerto Madryn. Best from June to August.

• Puerto Pirámides: Only town within Peninsula Valdés and the hub for boat tours. Prime whale watching from September to December.

• Punta Flecha viewpoint: Offers panoramic views of Golfo Nuevo and potential sightings.

• Caleta Valdés and Punta Delgada: Possible to see whales along the cliffs and bays during the season.

Whale Watching by Boat

Puerto Pirámides is the only licensed port for whale-watching boat excursions in Argentina. These trips last about 90 minutes and include sightings of whales breaching, tail-slapping, and nursing calves. Some companies, like those operating the Yellow Submarine, offer semi-submersible boats with underwater viewing windows, giving a unique perspective of whales in their natural environment.

The Yellow Submarine Experience

This specialized semi-submersible boat, designed for minimal environmental impact, offers both above- and below-surface whale observations. Passengers can view the whales from underwater viewing decks, making for an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Can You See Whales from the Shore?

Yes — especially during the early part of the season. El Doradillo, just north of Puerto Madryn, is one of the few places in the world where you can watch whales so closely from land. At high tide, mother whales and their calves often come within 20 meters of the beach.

Can You Kayak with Whales?

Yes, but it’s regulated. Kayaking near whales is allowed with licensed operators and under strict guidelines to protect the animals. These guided excursions typically take place in calm waters and offer a peaceful, intimate way to encounter whales — without disturbing them.

Types of Whales in Peninsula Valdés

The main species is the Southern Right Whale. However, depending on the time of year and exact location, it’s also possible to spot Orcas (Killer Whales), especially during March and April when they use the unique technique of intentional stranding to hunt sea lion pups along the beaches of Punta Norte.

A Natural Spectacle

The breeding and calving behavior of Southern Right Whales is one of the most extraordinary wildlife spectacles in Argentina. From acrobatic displays to tender moments between mothers and calves, the experience is unmatched.

Related articles about Whales

• Whales in Peninsula Valdés: Season and Useful Information
  This page provides detailed information about the whale-watching season in Peninsula Valdés, highlighting that the first specimens arrive in June, with mothers and calves visible near the coast at El Doradillo. It emphasizes that whales are a major attraction in the area, with the best viewing opportunities from September to mid-December in locations like Puerto Pirámides.

• What Type of Whales Can Be Seen Around Peninsula Valdés?
  This article discusses the various whale species that can be observed in the region, including the southern right whale, orcas (killer whales), and occasionally humpback whales. It provides insights into their behaviors and the best times to see them.

• What Does the Southern Right Whale That Can Be Seen in Peninsula Valdés Eat?
  This piece delves into the diet of the southern right whale, explaining that they primarily feed on zooplankton, especially krill and copepods, using their baleen plates to filter food from seawater.

• Best Places to See Whales in Puerto Pirámides
  This guide highlights the top spots in Puerto Pirámides for whale watching, both from the shore and through boat tours, offering tips for the best viewing experiences.

• Responsible Tourism: Are Whale-Watching Tours Ethical and Safe for the Whales?
  This article addresses concerns about the ethics and safety of whale-watching tours in Peninsula Valdés, detailing the strict regulations in place to protect marine life, such as limited boat numbers, respectful distances, and eco-friendly engines.

• Puerto Pirámides Whale Watching Tour
  This page offers information about organized whale-watching tours departing from Puerto Pirámides, providing details on the itinerary, seasonality, and what participants can expect during the experience.

• How Far Does the Southern Right Whale Swim With Its Calf at El Doradillo Beach
  This article focuses on the unique opportunity to observe southern right whale mothers and calves at El Doradillo Beach, where they come remarkably close to the shore, especially from June to mid-October.