Transfer facts
- From
- Puerto Madryn
- To
- Punta Tombo
Price on request: we reply with the final price for your date.
Punta Tombo is a coastal reserve in Chubut, south of Trelew, where Magellanic penguins nest in very large numbers and visitors walk among the burrows. From Puerto Madryn it is a full-day outing with a long drive each way. We arrange a car with waiting time for your group; availability is confirmed when booking.
Check the season first
Penguins are at the colony roughly from September to April. In winter they are at sea and the colony is empty. Before booking, confirm that the reserve is open and occupied on your dates.
The drive
The route follows Ruta 3 south, passes Trelew and then leaves the highway on a secondary road to the coast. The final stretch may include gravel, and its condition is checked before the trip. Guanacos are often seen along the way.
At the colony
- You walk on marked paths and boardwalks.
- Penguins cross the path constantly. Give way and do not touch them.
- Each visitor pays the entry fee at the gate.
- The site is open to wind and sun, with very little shade. Bring a hat, a jacket and water.
Making a day of it
On the way back, two stops are popular: Gaiman, a town of Welsh heritage known for its tea houses, and the palaeontology museum in Trelew. Tell us which you prefer and we plan the times. If you stay in Trelew or land at its airport, the drive is much shorter. Groups can ask for a minivan.
Updated on 13 October 2026
Frequently asked questions
Can we do Punta Tombo and Península Valdés in one day?
We advise against it. They lie in opposite directions from Puerto Madryn, and each fills a day.
How long do people spend with the penguins?
It varies with how far you walk. Tell us if you want an unhurried visit and we allow for it in the waiting time.
Is the trip suitable for older travellers?
The walking is gentle, but the day in the car is long. Stops can be added if you ask when booking.