This weekend, residents of Puerto Madryn and tourists experienced an unforgettable day at Canteras Beach, located beyond El Doradillo, one of the most iconic spots for viewing southern right whales in the Golfo Nuevo.
Despite the cold weather, hundreds of people gathered to enjoy the natural spectacle, filling the area with vehicles and requiring the presence of Traffic personnel to organize parking.
The sea giants did their part: breaching, tail slapping, and blowhole spraying animated the scene, and many families were lucky to see whale calves with their mothers up close, just a few meters from the shore.
A unique place in the world to see whales from land
Between June and November, the Chubut coast becomes a temporary habitat for hundreds of whales that migrate to warmer waters to give birth, nurse, and socialize. The El Doradillo Protected Natural Area, established in 2001, offers an exceptional opportunity: to see large cetaceans without the need for a boat.
Its privileged geography —with protective cliffs and considerable depth of the sea just meters from the coast— creates optimal conditions for whales to approach, making it one of the best coastal whale watching sites on the planet.
Accessibility, conservation, and winter experience on the coast
Free access, coupled with recent road paving works, allowed more visitors to reach the area without difficulty. During the past weekends, the weather was favorable with clear skies and calm winds, ideal for whale watching.
The southern right whale, which can reach up to 16 meters in length and weigh up to 50 tons, is the undisputed star of this phenomenon. Its characteristic dark body, white callosities on the head, and slow movements make it easy to identify from the coast.
Puerto Madryn, a winter with the sea as the protagonist
While many people associate winter with snow destinations, Puerto Madryn is establishing itself as a different option within national tourism. Winter in Chubut offers fewer crowds, more affordable rates, and experiences of deep contact with nature.
In addition to El Doradillo, whales can be observed from the city itself, at sites such as Comandante Luis Piedra Buena pier or Paraná Beach.
The whale watching season extends until mid-November, with the peak months between August and October, when the highest concentration of specimens is recorded. To fully enjoy it, warm clothing, binoculars, a camera, and patience are recommended: the unpredictability of whale behavior is part of the charm.
Recommendations for responsible whale watching
- Access is free and can be done by vehicle, bicycle, or organized tours.
- Do not bring pets or make loud noises.
- The rule is clear: observe with respect and preserve the environment.
Cover photo: El Chubut
