Puerto Pirámides travel guide

Puerto Pirámides, 107 km east of Puerto Madryn, is the centre for visits to the peninsula, and whale-watching boat trips leave from its broad sandy beach. Every year, between June and December, 400 to 500 southern right whales migrate to the Golfo Nuevo to mate and give birth. It is without doubt one of the best places in the world to watch these beautiful animals, and in many places these whales come within just a few metres of the coast. From Puerto Pirámides, boat trips take you gently close to basking whales, and if you’re lucky, you may find yourself incredibly close to a mother and baby. Sailings are controlled by the Prefectura (Naval Police), according to weather and sea conditions (if you’re very prone to sea sickness, think twice before setting off on a windy day). There’s one four-star hotel, right by the beach where boat trips begin, and plenty of other places to stay strung out along the road from the beach in this touristy little place, plus a campsite, and a good range of places to eat. All are packed out in January and February. There is a small tourist office (T02965-495084, http://www.puertopiramides.gov.ar) on the edge of Puerto Pirámides, offering useful information for hikes and driving tours.