Puerto Madryn

Puerto Madryn sits on the Golfo Nuevo in Patagonian Argentina, and it's the gateway to Península Valdés, a UNESCO-listed wildlife reserve. The cruise pier is close to the town centre, which has a waterfront promenade with shops and restaurants. The town itself is pleasant but unremarkable, so the wildlife excursions are the main reason to stop. Península Valdés, about 80km east, has southern right whales (June-December), Magellanic penguins, elephant seals, and sea lions, depending on the season. Orcas sometimes beach themselves to catch sea lion pups at Punta Norte (March-April). Punta Tombo, further south, has the largest Magellanic penguin colony on the continent. Closer to town, the EcoCentro marine museum is well done. Argentine steak (asado) is the meal to have, and Malbec is the wine to drink with it. The Argentine Peso is the currency.