Patagonia Kayaking with Southern Right Whales, Argentina

October through early December, endangered Southern Right whales and their calves cruise the sheltered waters of Gulfo San Jose, located between the peninsula and the Patagonian mainland, where we navigate unobtrusively in our kayaks for close encounters with the whales, elephant seals, Magellanic penguins, southern sea lions, and dolphins.

The whales come here for mating and giving birth, because the protected water in the gulf is quieter and warmer than in the open sea. It’s the best place in the world to watch the nursing mothers and their playful calves up close from the shore and your kayak. Breaching, fin-slapping and tail-lobbing, the highly social whales will captivate your attention with their behavior.

Our introduction to Argentina begins with an overnight stay in the cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires, often called the cradle of tango, before transferring to the airport the following morning for our southbound flight to Patagonia.

We offer two different itineraries for you to observe the Southern Right whales and discover Patagonia’s diverse, fascinating ecosystem of windswept steppes, unique wildlife, and dramatic coastline. Our Patagonia Whales & Kayaks 8- and 12-day itineraries include camping at a secluded beach at the center of whale activity that is also a research area for a local whale conservation organization.  It is the perfect place to see the whales as they surface and blow right in front of our camp!

On shore your guides will take you hiking to fossil-rich rock formations and beaches strewn with ancient shells. Nights are spent camping out on the beach and dining on local shrimp, scallop and drinking Malbec wine while tender beef and piles of sausages sizzle on a wood-fired grill. Afterwards, the hollow resonating blows of the whale lull you to sleep.

Both itineraries feature a visit to a nearby Magellanic penguin colony before an evening of dinner and lodging at Estancia Rincon Chico, a historic turn-of-the-century sheep ranch located in the park.  The final highlight of our tour is visiting the only elephant seal rookery on the South American continent before leaving Peninsula Valdes for our last night accommodation in Puerto Madryn.

On our final day, we are transferred to the airport for our return flight to Buenos Aires and homeward.  You'll bring home a lifetime of memories.

Our advice: Spend a day in Buenos Aires (most international flights come through here) before and after your trip.

Click here to view a slideshow of this trip.  Click here to view a video of this trip.

Entry into Argentina:   Most people fly into Buenos Aires, enjoy a day tour, tango show and hotel night there before flying early morning to Trelew for the whale watching and kayaking tour.  Our advice: Spend a day in Buenos Aires (most international flights come through here) before and after your trip.  Americans are required to pay a reciprocity fee of $140 USD cash (Canadians $70 USD) at the airport customs upon arrival in Buenos Aires.

Air Flights:  We have a travel agent who can help you get to Buenos Aires, Trelew and design further extensions should you wish to combine this trip with trekking in El Chalten, entrance to Glaciers National Park and Mt. Fitzroy.

Weather:   Late spring/early summer is generally dry and sunny in this arid area, but be ready for some wind and clouds.

Travel Agent:   Please call us for details. 800-616-1943

What qualifications do your guides have?
In addition to being experienced outdoor leaders our guides have taken numerous courses such as the A.C.S.K.G (Association of Canadian Sea Kayak Guides) Sea Kayaking leadership course, Advanced wilderness first aid, C.P.R, Leave No Trace. All are experts at interpreting nature and cultural history as well as comforting, safe, and fun to share a campfire with!

What size are the groups?
The group size varies from 6 to 10 participants, usually accompanied by 2 guides.

Can you arrange private & custom trips?
Yes. We offer private departures for all kinds of groups from couples, families and friends to clubs and organizations. You have to contact our office well in advance of your planned departure date to ensure trip availability.

Can we bring our children?
Although most of our trips have adults in mind, some of our itineraries are suitable for strong and active teenagers. If you would like your children to join you on a trip please call our office to obtain more information. The minimum age for our trips is normally 15 to ensure that all our guests are capable of fully participating in the kayaking and other activities involved.

What if I'm traveling alone?
Prices are based on double occupancy. If you are traveling alone and specifically request single accommodations, you will be asked to pay a single supplement fee. If you wish to share accommodations, we will assign a roommate if one is available. If a roommate cannot be found, you will be asked to pay a single supplement fee.

Is previous kayaking experience necessary?
Some prior sea kayaking or camping experience is recommended but not required. We are happy to speak with anyone about the suitability of our kayaking trips.   Anyone in good physical health with a positive attitude can enjoy these activities. Your experienced sea kayaking tour guides will be right with you to pace the trip and teach you about the local environment and fauna.

For all of our trips, we ask that you be in good health and fitness. You need to be comfortable being physically active all day long. On trips, you are expected to pitch your tent and manage your own gear. Participants must be capable of helping with the loading and unloading of kayaks, carrying personal and group gear to and from campsites, and helping to carry the kayaks.

How much paddling will we do each day?
On full field days, time on the water will typically be four hours per day with plenty of time to relax, take scenic pictures, stretch your legs and have lunch. Due to the weather situation, some days may require longer paddling hours in order to reach the intended destination for the day. We also like to incorporate some hiking and of course leisure time.

What type of kayaks do you use on this trip?
Single and double fiberglass touring kayaks are used on our trips. (Singles may be used by guests when deemed safe by guides). They are remarkably stable and seaworthy and are specially designed for this kind of expeditionary ocean travel.

What sort of wildlife might we see on the tour?
The peninsula is an outstanding wildlife sanctuary where numerous species of marine birds and mammals congregate in its island-like isolation to breed, often in large numbers, and to find shelter and abundant food in the warm and productive waters of the peninsula and the surrounding coasts. A population of southern right whale remain in the clear and protected waters of Golfo Nuevo and Golfo San José to mate and calve from October to December.

The southern elephant seal forms a mating and calving colony on Punta Delgada from late August to December. This is the most northern colony of the species and the only colony on the Argentine mainland, all other colonies being on Antarctic and Sub-Antarctic islands. It is also said to be the world's only colony on the increase.

Peninsula Valdes is also important as a breeding point for the southern sea lion. Several other marine mammals are found in the area including a stable group of orca; they feed on a basic diet of fish and squid but will take both young and adult sea lions, elephant seals and adult right whales on the peninsula and elsewhere in Patagonia. A notable orca hunting technique is to rush into the shallow surf, beach themselves, grabbing the prey in their jaws, and return back to sea with the next wave.

Terrestrial mammals are abundant. There are large herds of llama-like guanaco almost everywhere on the peninsula. Other species present include the armadillo, Mara or Patagonian hare (a large rodent), grey fox, guinea pig-like cuis, and the weasel-like small grison Patagonian skunk.

Península Valdés has 181 species of birds, of which 66 are migratory. The Magellanic penguin is the most numerous with active nests amongst five different colonies. The second most numerous bird is the kelp gull. The rhea is quite common. Other colonial birds are the giant petrel, rock cormorant, great egret, crested duck, black-chested buzzard eagle and black-browed albatross.


What are the chances of seeing Southern Right Whales?
On our tours we stand a high chance of seeing the whales. Understandably we cannot guarantee what nature will dictate, but we can tell you that this area has one of the highest concentrations of Southern Right Whales on earth and this is where they spend their mating and calving season. It is very likely that you will see them, whether it be within reach from your kayak, or our beach camp on the shore. Hearing the blow of a whale even from a mile across the ocean will create a sensation of excitement.  October through early December are the best months for viewing the whales.

What are typical meals on the trip?
The food on this trip is a key element with an Argentine flavor. We pride ourselves in preparing top-quality meals in a wilderness setting from the freshest ingredients available. Our menu is varied: continental breakfasts, empanadas, juice, tea or coffee start the day, wholesome sandwiches and fresh salads for lunch, and fresh baked goods every day.  Scallops and shrimp cocktails with beer for happy hour. Dinner: Beef and sausage cooking over the coals. Steak is to Argentina as pasta is to Italy: everywhere and always excellent. Excellent Argentine Malbec wine served with every dinner. Vegetarians as well as special dietary requests can easily be accommodated.  Join the guides in sharing mate - the national drink of Argentina.

What is the camp set up like?
All of our campsites are in wilderness settings. We seek out sites with beautiful surroundings and those that offer solitude. The whales come so close to shore at high tide that you can feel the spray from their spouts.

We provide all camping gear of the best quality: tents, camp tables and comfortable camp seats; you get the best beach sites and you don't have to worry about missing the wildlife.

Where do we wash? Are there toilets?
For those wanting to wash up, you have the option of using the ocean. For washing we do not suggest using any cleansing agents, but if you do please use biodegradable environmentally friendly brands.

Toilet facilities are not common in most wilderness settings, although some areas may have pit toilets. On the tour your guide will generally designate an area or system that works for ensuring your privacy. In your detailed info package we have some guidelines and suggestions for comfortably and correctly 'doing your business in the outdoors'.

What about safety?
Your safety, comfort and enjoyment are our priorities. Any concerns about risks and physical abilities are handled with the greatest care by our office staff and trip leaders. Your guides are always in close proximity, well equipped with First Aid kits and specially trained in Wilderness First Aid to handle emergency situations. Before each trip your trip leader will provide a comprehensive instructional session designed to familiarize you with paddling techniques and the equipment.

What do I need to bring?
Usually all you need to bring is your personal gear. A detailed clothing and equipment list for each trip is mailed with the trip packet. We supply all specialized paddling gear, kayaks, and group camping equipment including top-quality tents.

Because we are self-supported on our paddling trip, carrying all of our food and water with us in the limited space we have in our kayaks, the goal of the list is to make sure you have the essentials-and not much else.

What can I expect to spend on round trip international flights to Buenos Aires and domestic flights to Trelew?  Airfare on international flights from the United States to Buenos Aires range in price from $1280 to $1580 USD.  Domestic airfare for flights between Buenos Aires and Trelew on Aerolineas Argentina range in prices from $365 to $580 USD.

What about optional excursions and extra days in Buenos Aires?  We have an English-speaking travel agent in Buenos Aires who can help you with flights between Buenos Aires and Trelew, book extra nights, city tours, tango shows and design further extensions should you wish to continue your travels.  Estimated prices in USD: City tour $90, Tango show $110, Extra night hotel $80 double occupancy. Call us for details.

What is included in the trip price?
All the trips and expeditions include:

• Professional guiding service for each activity
• Lodging in Trelew, Puerto Madryn and Buenos Aires
  
• Group equipment and / or technical gear for each activity
• All camping gear including tent, sleeping bag and pad
  
• All transport services during the trip (shuttle service), including hotel/airport transfers in Buenos Aires.
• 3 meals daily (B, L, D)
• Welcome dinner

What's not Included?

• Any extra meals and accommodation not outlined within this itinerary.
• Alcoholic drinks with meals at restaurants.
• Personal belongings and gear listed in 'Clothing and Gear List'
• Life, personal accident or travel insurance.
• Airport departure taxes, entry or reciprocity fees.
• Tiipping of guides
• Domestic and International flights.
  

Patagonia Whales & Kayaks 8-day Itinerary

Patagonia Whales & Kayaks 12-day Itinerary

What is included in the trip price

Patagonia whales & Kayaks 8-day Itinerary

Day 1: Upon arrival in Buenos Aires, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. There is a two-hour walking tour of the city in the afternoon.  The evening is free to rest or explore the city. At your request, we can arrange a glamorous tango show and dinner for a taste of Argentina culture  Overnight in Buenos Aires.  Meals not included. Note: Most international flights arrive to Buenos Aires in the morning.

Day 2: Early morning transfer and depart Buenos Aires for flight to Trelew airport, meet your guide and transfer to the village of Puerto Piramides. Two-hour whale watching cruise.  Welcome dinner and trip orientation.  Accommodation at an Eco-lodge in Puerto Piramides.  Meals: L, D

Day 3: After breakfast we leave Puerto Piramides and head towards San José gulf within the Península Valdés Nature Reserve where our kayaking trip starts.  After loading our gear in the kayaks, the guide gives us a safety briefing and instructs us about our expected conduct in a protected area. We start our paddling journey along a coastline of sand and stone beaches alternating with rocky formations and cliffs.  We encounter sea lion colonies and Southern right whales.  After a stop for lunch, we resume the paddling to our first night campsite for happy hour and dinner. Meals: B, L, D

Day 4: After breaking camp, we continue our paddling towards a small pebble beach where we set up our second night camp. A calm sunset will allow paddling in our kayaks to enjoy watching the sun go down. We feast on typical Patagonian lamb with the background sound of the whales in the gulf.  Meals: B, L, D

Day 5: After breakfast, we leave our camp behind for a full day paddle. Our paddling today is bound for Punta Conos, and El puente -the bridge- a maritime rock formation.  Punta Conos boasts a huge concentration of marine fossils dating back million years. Once we paddle through El Puente, we arrive at a small beach, perfect for a seaside lunch.  After lunch, we get back in our kayaks to visit a large south american sea lion colony. We enjoy the curiosity of the sea lions that swim around and approach our kayaks. After visiting the sea lion colony, we head back to camp for happy hour and dinner.  Meals: B, L, D

Day 6: After breakfast, we break camp and start touring Península Valdés. Our vehicle takes us to the most attractive spots such as Punta Norte and Caleta Valdés eventually dropping us at Estancia Rincón Chico. During the tour, we visit colonies of Magellanic penguins and observe the steppe's endemic wildlife along our way.  Overnight and farewell dinner at Estancia Rincón Chico, a turn-of-the-century sheep ranch located in the park.  Meals: B, L, D

Day 7: After breakfast, we visit a nearby elephant seal rookery and continue with a full day of wildlife viewing before transferring to a hotel in Puerto Madryn where our Patagonia adventure comes to an end.  Meals: B, L

Day 8: Morning transfer and flight out of Trelew to Buenos Aires.  Upon arrival to the domestic terminal in Buenos Aires, we are directly transferred to the international terminal and return flight home.  Meals not included.  You have the option of staying an extra day in Buenos Aires or continue your travels.

Patagonia Whales & Kayaks 12-day Itinerary

Day 1: Upon arrival in Buenos Aires, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. There is a two-hour walking tour of the city in the afternoon.  The evening is free to rest or explore the city. At your request, we can arrange a glamorous tango show and dinner for a taste of Argentina culture  Overnight in Buenos Aires. Meals not included. Note: Most international flights arrive to Buenos Aires in the morning.

Day 2: Early am depart Buenos Aires for flight to Trelew airport, meet guide and transfer to the village of Puerto Piramides. Two-hour whale watching cruise.  Welcome dinner and trip orientation.  Accommodation at an Eco-lodge in Puerto Piramides.  Meals: L, D

Day 3: After breakfast we leave Puerto Piramides towards San José gulf within the Península Valdés Nature Reserve where our kayaking trip starts.  After loading our gear in the kayaks, the guide gives us a safety briefing and instructs us about our expected conduct in a protected area. We start our paddling journey along a coastline of sand and stone beaches alternating with rocky formations and cliffs.  We encounter sea lion colonies and Southern right whales.  After a stop for lunch, we resume the paddling to our first night campsite for happy hour and dinner. Meals: B, L, D

Day 4: After breaking camp, we continue our paddling towards a small pebble beach where we set up our second night camp. A calm sunset will allow paddling in our kayaks to enjoy watching the sun go down. We feast on typical Patagonian lamb with the background sound of the whales in the gulf.  Meals: B, L, D

Day 5: After breakfast, we leave our camp behind for a full day paddle. Our paddling today is bound for Punta Conos, and El puente -the bridge- a maritime rock formation.  Punta Conos boasts a huge concentration of marine fossils dating back million years.  Once we paddle through El Puente, we arrive at a small beach, perfect for a seaside lunch.  After lunch, we get back in our kayaks to visit a large south american sea lion colony. We enjoy the curiosity of the sea lions that swim around and approach our kayaks. After visiting the sea lion colony, we head back to camp for happy hour and dinner.  Meals: B, L, D

Day 6, 7, 8, 9:  Full days of kayaking including coastal hikes and wilderness camping as we continue following the coastline of Gulfo San Jose.  Meals: B, L, D

Day 10:  After breakfast, we break camp and start touring Península Valdés. Our vehicle takes us to the most attractive spots such as Punta Norte and Caleta Valdés eventually dropping us at Estancia Rincón Chico.  During the tour, we visit colonies of Magellanic penguins and elephant seals, and observe the steppe's endemic wildlife along our way.  Overnight and farewell dinner at Estancia Rincón Chico, a turn-of-the-century sheep ranch located in the park.  Meals: B, L, D

Day 11: After a full day of wildlife viewing, we transfer to a hotel in Puerto Madryn where our Patagonia adventure comes to an end. Meals: B, L

Day 12: Morning transfer and flight out of Trelew to Buenos Aires.  Upon arrival to the domestic terminal in Buenos Aires, we are directly transferred to the international terminal and return flight home.  Meals not included. You have the option of staying an extra day in Buenos Aires or continue your travels.

What is included in the trip price?
All the trips and expeditions include:

• Professional guiding service for each activity
• Lodging in Trelew, Puerto Madryn and Buenos Aires
• Group equipment and / or technical gear for each activity
• All camping gear including tent, sleeping bag and pad
• All transport services during the trip (shuttle service), including hotel/airport transfers in Buenos Aires.
• 3 meals daily (B, L, D)
• Welcome dinner

What's not Included?

• Any extra meals and accommodation not outlined within this itinerary.
• Alcoholic drinks with meals at restaurants.
• Personal belongings and gear listed in 'Clothing and Gear List'
• Life, personal accident or travel insurance.
• Airport departure taxes, entry or reciprocity fees.
• Tipping of guides
• Domestic and International flights.