4 Alternative Excursions From Puerto Madryn

Aside from going to see whales, penguins and seals, there are several alternative excursions from Puerto Madryn which perhaps aren't as well-known. Below are a few ideas for interesting things to see and do outside of the city.

1. Dique Florentino Ameghino

The Dique Florentino Ameghino (Florentino Ameghino Dam) is a hydroelectric dam located in the centre of the province on the Chubut River, the ideal place to spend a day relaxing and admiring some incredible scenery. Here, the river runs between huge rocky walls and the beautiful emerald waters against the red rocks of the plains and the lush green vegetation make it a truly spectacular vision. You can enjoy a full day excursion to this peaceful location, which is ideal for anyone looking to get away from the busier spots in Chubut and fully immerse themselves in nature and silence. A number of activities are on offer such as interpretive walks, fishing and sailing and there are trails around the area where you can witness various species of Patagonian wildlife, such as guanacos, choiques and Patagonian hares. There is also a campsite, should you choose to stay overnight instead of returning to Puerto Madryn.

[caption id="attachment_7137" align="aligncenter" width="540"] The peaceful, quiet surroundings of Dique Florentino Ameghino / source[/caption]  

2. A day in the ranches

The Patagonian ranches are one of the alternative excursions for tourists who have seen enough of the city and want to learn a bit about country life. Over the past few years, rural tourism has boomed and a number of farms have started opening their doors to the public, enabling them to learn about herding cattle, sheep shearing, preparing meals and general countryside living. Tourists are even allowed to participate in these tasks in order to gain a better understanding of the country people’s daily routine. As part of the gaucho excursion, you will have the chance to sample tasty typical meals of the region, such as fried cakes, homemade bread and roast Patagonian lamb, which will give you all the energy you need to partake in a spot of horse-riding or mountain biking, two of the many activities on offer at the ranches. As well as this, you can go on photographic safaris and archeological expeditions, before relaxing in the ranch house, which some farms also use as overnight accommodation.

[caption id="attachment_7139" align="aligncenter" width="540"] Rounding up sheep on a Patagonian ranch / source[/caption] 

3. Fossil expedition

The Chubut Valley is a treasure trove of fossils, with some being up to 20million years old! You can delve into the world of the past with a fossil expedition, which is carried out in the areas surrounding Puerto Madryn in 4x4 vehicles, accompanied by a professional tour guide. As part of the excursion, you’ll have the chance to explore dunes, fields and ravines, whereby you can witness the local flora and fauna, before disembarking the vehicle to begin hiking in search of marine fossils. In order to assist with the search, tours provide field guides and tools at the start of the hike, giving you the opportunity to discover a large number of fossils. As well as this, you'll be able to visit an aboriginal settlement of great historical importance, complete with spears and arrowheads made from stone by its ancient inhabitants, the Tehuelches.

[caption id="attachment_7143" align="aligncenter" width="540"] Some of the marine fossils are as old as 20billion years / source[/caption]  

4. Moonlight expedition

The clear nights in the countryside surrounding Puerto Madryn enable tourists to spot a range of nocturnal wildlife. In a moonlight expedition, along with the aid of flashlights and lights from the vehicles, you’ll be able to discover life forms which only emerge at night. As well as observing wildlife, you can gaze up at the starry skies, which become visible once you leave the city. The stars can be viewed through small telescopes from strategic viewpoints, and it really is quite a remarkable sight.

[caption id="attachment_7144" align="aligncenter" width="540"] Experience a different view of Puerto Madryn once the sun has set / source[/caption]  

Overall, there are plenty of alternative excursions from Puerto Madryn, all which focus on the wonderful natural sights around the city.

For more tours and activities in Puerto Madryn, visit our website.

By: Milly Day For: Argentina4u