Peninsula Valdes
Peninsula Valdés charismatically juts out from the eastern tip of central Patagonia by a narrow isthmus called Itsmo Carlos Ameghino. Barren and windswept, the peninsula provides sanctuary to numerous marine mammals along the Atlantic Coast; most notable being endangered southern right whales that arrive in its protected waters between Golfo Nuevo and Golfo San José from June to mid-December to breed. Recognised as a site of global significance for wildlife conservation, Peninsula Valdes was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.
The peninsula coastline dotted with rocky outcrops, bays and beaches is strictly out of bounds, becoming a haven for wildlife between September and January when Magellanic penguins, elephant seals, sea lions and almost 200 bird species including cormorants, terns and albatross arrive to reclaim their breeding grounds. Southern right whales and Commerson's dolphin encircle Peninsula Valdes and Punta Loma, while the peninsula interior is home to guanacos, maras and rheas.
Nestled on the mainland steppe, Chubut Valley is home to a 19th century Welsh settlement where cream teas are sold and Welsh songs sung.