A small coastal town on Argentina's Valdés Peninsula where southern right whales gather from June to December. Popular base for whale watching and sea lion spotting.
Puerto Pirámides, a small coastal village in Argentina's Chubut Province, sits within the UNESCO-listed Península Valdés. Watch southern right whales breach from your boat in Golfo Nuevo, walk the cliff-top trail to spot sea lions basking on the rocks, or paddle through the calm bay waters in a kayak. The village takes its name from the distinctive pyramid-shaped cliffs that rise along its coastline.
Getting to Puerto Pirámides
Puerto Pirámides lies 97 kilometers from Puerto Madryn and 1,430 kilometers from Buenos Aires. Drive to the village via Provincial Route 2, which connects to National Route 3. You'll find regular car rentals and organized tours departing from Puerto Madryn, with the drive taking about one hour through the Patagonian desert.
Whale Watching in Golfo Nuevo
Southern right whales swim into Golfo Nuevo from June to December. Local boat operators run 2-3 hour trips from the village harbor at 9 AM, 12 PM, and 3 PM daily. Visit between September and November to see mother whales swimming with their calves in the bay. The boats keep 50 meters away from the whales, though the curious mammals often swim closer to investigate.
Beach and Water Activities
The main beach curves along Bahía de Pirámides, with 30-meter cliffs blocking the strongest winds. The bay's sheltered position keeps water temperatures around 20°C (68°F) in summer, warmer than nearby beaches. Rent kayaks and paddleboards from the three shops on the beachfront, or join daily diving excursions to explore the natural reefs where you might spot sea lions, octopuses, and local fish species.
Wildlife Viewing Trails
A 4-kilometer marked trail starts at the western beach parking lot and winds along the cliffs to a sea lion colony. Stop at five viewing platforms with information panels explaining the peninsula's ecology. Head out at sunrise to see sea lions at their most active, fishing and playing in the surf. Pack water and a hat - the exposed trail has no shade or facilities.
The Village
Puerto Pirámides began as a salt mining port in 1898, when ships would dock to load salt from inland deposits. Today, the village's 600 residents welcome visitors year-round, with most working in whale watching and tourism. You can still see old salt loading equipment along the shore, particularly near the northern end of the beach.
