The weeks before the beginning of the Watching Season at Peninsula Valdes, the two gulfs that shape the peninsula become more populous with right whales. Each day, all along the shore from Puerto Madryn to Puerto Piramides, those species individuals grow in number.
Fall roots itself more deeply, and whales comfortably find peace in this heavenly place on earth. While the concentration of animals is overall intense, the highest density of whales per km2 is observed, no chance of doubt, at Protected Natural Area El Doradillo, which takes the major award worldwide in whale population between May and July.
This place, this time of year, a few meters from where the sea washes the sand, a unique concentration of right whales can be appreciated – all of them mothers with their calves. To the human eye experiencing such sight, either for the first or for the millionth time, it is a magnificent show hard to compare, captivating the most sensitive observer and leaving them at a loss for words. This video successfully reflects the reigning atmosphere of these beaches some with sand, others with Boulder geography, as well as all the energy of the boundless immensity offered by this corner of the Argentine Patagonia. Shore Whale Watching at El Doradillo, an invitation to experience nature in family
During one of the most significant and magical cycles of their existence, these marine giants approach the solid ground. Accessible to those who come to El Doradillo and witness the moment, a flask, a mate, and rolls in hand, sitting on the beach, every day, these are masterly classes of living in harmony. Daily lessons on bringing up their calves with motherly love and infinite patience, nursing them and helping them perfect their air-breathing maneuver, among other basic survival skills, are deeply touching. These are customs and practices right whales pass on from generation to generation, from The Beginning of Times.
The protected area finds its starting point at the coastal geographic feature known as Punta Arco, located about 20 km from Puerto Madryn. It spreads through an area parallel to the coast covering 3 km wide and about 25 km long, including Punta Ameghino, the popular dwelling place for the southern sea lion, to Punta Prismático, where the coastal circuit of the Provincial Route 42 ends, reaching a total area of 7500 hectares.
Access should be made by car, taxi, and organized tours – the adventure lovers in good fitness might also bicycle to get there. There is no bus service to reach those shores. Some adventure privileged arrive in motor homes.
Naturally, ‘the whale’ is the greatest tourist attraction of this natural reservoir, but it is not the only one. The steppe is home to vital flora and fauna – plants nestled in an immense biodiversity barely noticed by who quickly passes through this desolate semi-deserted area. However, vegetation consisting mainly of low shrub-like plants, featuring more than 15 different species, predominates and embraces this saline ground to take root. Tens of bird species inhabit the region, as well as small mammals such as the skunk, the piche, and the southern mountain cave. For further information, visit the Natural Heritage site about the history of the Protected Natural Area El Doradillo, and how it was originated.
