Patagonia Orca Safari

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Killer Whales of Valdes - Orca Safari 8 days. Limited Space

Prices From £3,653pp
March to April | 7 nights
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Killer Whales of Valdes - Orca Safari 8 days. Limited Space

Observe rare encounters of Orcas intentionally beaching while hunting for seal pups. Exceptional photographic & observation opportunities, available to only a small number of privileged observers who may visit the Valdes Peninsula in Argentinean each year. On this tour, led by international experts, you will sometimes be as close as 20 metres to an orca attacking a seal pup on the beach. A unique experience.

Highlights

  • Unique Orca Sightings Straddling on to the Beach
  • Excellent Photography & Film Opportunities 
  • Limited & Controlled Allocation of Space 

What's Included

  • Transfers between Trelew Airport & hotel
  • Seven nights bed and breakfast in comfortable local accommodation
  • Services of English-speaking local Photo Guide & Expert
  • Photographic permits and national park fees
  • Rates based on two persons sharing. 
  • 5 Full Days Observing the Orca of Valdes

Our popularitinerary Suggestions

All our itinerary holidays are fully customisable

Trelew
1Day

Trelew

Arrive at Trelew and transfer to the Peninsula Hotel at Puerto Madryn for 1 night. The hotel overlooks the Golfo Nuevo and whales can sometimes be seen breaching from the hotel.

Orca Watching
2 - 6Days

Orca Watching

Arrive at the captivating Estancia La Ernestina, nestled in the heart of Patagonia's Valdes Peninsula. Immerse yourself in the rustic charm of this traditional sheep ranch and settle into your cosy accommodations. Meet Juan Copello, co-founder of Punta Norte Orca Research, established in 2004, and the owner-operator of the boutique accommodation at La Ernestina. Juan is an expert in the orcas of Punta Norte, having witnessed over 2,000 attacks and knowing each orca by name. His wealth of knowledge and experience make him the ultimate guide for your wildlife adventure.

Wake up to the enchanting Patagonian sunrise and fuel yourself with a hearty breakfast. Join Juan Copello on excursions to the beaches of Estancia La Ernestina, where the unique population of orcas visits and hunts. Learn about the fascinating characteristics of these individual orcas and how to identify them. With Juan's guidance, you will gain insights into their behaviours, hunting strategies, and the intricate dynamics of their social structures.

Throughout your stay, unwind in comfortable rooms that blend traditional Patagonian decor with modern amenities, providing a peaceful sanctuary after exhilarating days of exploration. Benefit from the expertise of Juan Copello and the dedicated ranch staff, who will accompany you on every outing, ensuring a safe and respectful experience with the wildlife.

Enjoy delectable meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients, whether it's a hearty lunch on the beach or a mouthwatering dinner in the warm ambience of the main house. Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Valdes Peninsula, where orcas, elephant seals, and a rich marine ecosystem come together to create unforgettable moments of wildlife observation and appreciation.

On your final day, enjoy your last breakfast at Estancia La Ernestina and take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary experiences you've had during your stay. Exchange stories with fellow wildlife enthusiasts and bid farewell to Juan Copello and the dedicated staff who have made your retreat truly unforgettable. Depart with a sense of wonder, carrying cherished memories of this remote retreat for wildlife enthusiasts.

At Estancia La Ernestina, you will discover a remote retreat that offers a unique opportunity to connect with the captivating beauty of Patagonia and the remarkable orcas of Punta Norte. Book your stay now and embark on a journey into the heart of wildlife wonder, guided by Juan Copello, one of the world's most experienced individuals when it comes to the orcas of Punta Norte.

On days when the orcas may not show up near the hunting beaches or when the weather and sea conditions prevent them from hunting, alternative programmes are offered. Other wildlife in the region includes foxes, armadillos, various seabird species, herons and turkey vultures, and the huge colonies of sea lions.

Puerto Madryn
7Day

Puerto Madryn

Depart La Ernestina and the Valdes Peninsula and return to Puerto Madryn for your final night in the region at the Peninsula Hotel.

Trelew
8Day

Trelew

Transfer to Trelew airport in the evening for the return flight.

A view from Above

Accommodation Options

Estancia La Ernestina, Punta Norte

This authentic estancia is located at the edge of the sea and the peninsula road, just a few kilometres from Punta Norte, in an area boasting the highest concentration of marine mammals and birds in the whole Peninsula Valdes. This is the perfect spot from which to see Orcas, Southern Elephant Seals, South American Sea Lions, Penguins, Southern Right Whales, birds and land fauna among many other species.

The estancia features 6 cosy and beautifully decorated bedrooms with ocean views, all set amongst 15000 hectares and 20km of coastline with exclusive access to the beach

Peninsula Hotel

Offering unbeatable value, comfort, and convenience, this family-friendly hotel provides an array of amenities tailored to meet your needs. Immerse yourself in well-appointed guest rooms with air conditioning, minibar, and refrigerator, while staying connected with complimentary wifi. Indulge in the hotel's 24-hour front desk, concierge services, and room service. Explore nearby landmarks such as Muelle Luis Piedra Buena and Monumento al Trabajador effortlessly.

Too much to choose from? This is where we come in

Take advantage of our vast experience, passion and expertise to help you hand craft the perfect Argentina adventure for you.

Michael Gardiner Senior Travel Expert

Mike has more than 15 years of experience in the travel industry and continues to be inspired by the people, places and wildlife he discovers. His in-depth personal knowledge of a diverse range of destinations ensures your adventure itinerary will be a holiday like no other.

Simon Rowland Senior Travel Expert

Simon’s deep passion for and first-hand knowledge of a vast range of destinations all over the world gives him the ideal skills to help you create a truly unforgettable wildlife inspired adventure to the most exciting places on the planet.

Amy Lucas Travel Specialist

With countless travel experiences and an enduring hunger for adventure, Amy knows exactly what’s needed to craft a holiday of a lifetime. Her experience and generosity of spirit are legendary and she’ll help you build an itinerary that will make all your dreams come true.

Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?

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0800 195 3385
Outside the uk
+ 44 1625 5811 43 Call us
+ 44 1625 5811 43 Call us
+ 44 1625 5811 43

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Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?

Call us - 0800 195 3385
Outside the uk? + 44 1625 5811 43 + 44 1625 5811 43 Call us - 0800 195 3385

Chat Now

Request a
callback

Fill in our
Enquiry form

Book Consultation

Book a
Consultation

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