Patagonia Wildlife

Bird enthusiasts will be captivated by Patagonia’s avian residents. Towering above them all is the Andean condor, one of the world’s largest flying birds, effortlessly gliding on thermal currents. Caracaras and eagles are frequently seen hunting across the plains, while the Magellanic woodpecker, with its striking redhead, is a sought-after sighting in the region’s forests.

Along the coasts, Magellanic penguins nest in colonies, particularly at Peninsula Valdés. The rarer king penguin can also be found in a colony Tierra del Fuego. Cormorants, black-browed albatrosses, and ducks thrive in Patagonia’s wild and windswept coastal regions.

Patagonia’s nutrient-rich waters are teeming with marine life. The Valdés Peninsula is a hotspot for southern right whales, which gather to breed and calve in the calm waters from June to December. Orcas, known for their unique hunting techniques, can be seen along the coast, particularly around Punta Norte.

Dolphins, including the playful Peale’s dolphin and striking Commerson’s dolphin, can often be spotted riding the bow waves of boats. Patagonia is also home to vast colonies of South American sea lions and elephant seals, which haul out on remote beaches and rocky shores.

Sustainable travel in Patagonia hinges on respecting and protecting its delicate ecosystem. 

1. Choose eco-friendly trips: Our operators care about the planet, not just profits.
2. Respect the wildlife: Keep your distance, no feeding, just watch, learn and enjoy. 
3. Support local: Use businesses that give back to the community and the environment—ask your Customer Experience Coordinator for more details about this. 
4. Travel light: Cut down on plastic, recycle, and leave no trace. Every little helps.
5. Learn & share: Get to know Patagonia's marine animals and tell your friends a story about the experience and why they need protection.