Punta Tombo is a nature reserve 110 km south of Trelew on the Atlantic coast of Chubut province (lat -44.0333, lng -65.2167). It harbours the world's largest continental colony of Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus), with an estimated population of approximately 1 million specimens during the breeding season (September to April). The 210-hectare reserve has wooden boardwalk trails running through the colony, allowing you to walk literally among penguins at centimetres distance -- they cross the path, nest beside the boardwalks and are unfazed by human presence. It is a unique wildlife experience, comparable to the Galapagos for proximity to animals. Peak season is October to February when penguins are with their chicks.
Getting there — distances & times
| From | Distance | Flight | Bus | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buenos Aires → Bariloche | 1640 km | 2 h 20 | 22 h | 18 h |
| Buenos Aires → El Calafate | 2700 km | 3 h 15 | 40 h | 35 h |
| Buenos Aires → Ushuaia | 3050 km | 3 h 35 | 50+ h | — |
| Bariloche → El Calafate | 1490 km | 1 h 45 | 28 h | 24 h |
| El Calafate → Ushuaia | 600 km | 1 h 15 | 18 h | 14 h |
Month-by-month climate
| Month | Temp. | Rain | Crowds | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 8° / 22°C | 40 mm | High season | |
| Feb | 8° / 22°C | 40 mm | ||
| Mar | 6° / 18°C | 50 mm | ||
| Apr | 3° / 14°C | 70 mm | ||
| May | 0° / 10°C | 90 mm | ||
| Jun | -2° / 6°C | 110 mm | Ski season | |
| Jul | -2° / 6°C | 120 mm | ||
| Aug | -1° / 8°C | 90 mm | ||
| Sep | 1° / 12°C | 60 mm | ||
| Oct | 4° / 16°C | 40 mm | ||
| Nov | 6° / 19°C | 40 mm | ||
| Dec | 7° / 21°C | 40 mm |
How to Get There
From Trelew: 110 km south via RP 1, 1.5-2 hours. First 70 km asphalt, last 40 km well-maintained gravel. From Puerto Madryn: 170 km, 2.5 hours. Organised tours from Madryn are the most practical option (USD 50-65, including entry).
Entry Booking
Since 2020, online booking is mandatory with date and time slot. Limited capacity to protect the colony. In high season (December-February) book days in advance.
What to See and Do
Colony Walk
The 3 km wooden boardwalk circuit runs through the penguin colony. You walk at ground level among nests (burrows dug in the earth), and penguins pass centimetres from visitors, crossing the boardwalks fearlessly. You see them feeding chicks, resting in the sun, waddling to the sea and returning with food. The experience can easily fill 2-3 hours.
Penguin Life Cycle
Penguins arrive in September after migrating from southern Brazil (5,000 km). Males arrive first to prepare nests. Females arrive in October and lay 2 eggs. Incubation lasts 40 days (both parents take turns). Chicks hatch in November-December. By January-February chicks are feathered and learning to swim. In March-April the colony gradually empties.
Photography
Punta Tombo is a photographer's paradise. No telephoto needed: penguins are 1-2 metres away. A 50-100 mm lens is perfect for portraits. Best light is in the morning (low sun, soft shadows). No flash.
When to Visit
- September-October: Penguins arriving. Courtship and pair formation.
- November-December: Chick hatching. The most tender scenes. Excellent for photography.
- January-February: Growing chicks learning to swim. Maximum activity. High season, more visitors. Book ahead.
- March-April: Penguins beginning migration. Colony emptying. Fewer people.
- May-August: Reserve closed. Penguins are at sea, migrating north.
