El Pedral and Punta Ninfas

Most wildlife tours from Puerto Madryn head north to Peninsula Valdes or south to Punta Tombo, but this one explores a lesser-known stretch of coast on the southern side of Golfo Nuevo. The day begins with a drive across the steppe to the El Pedral area, where a small colony of Magellanic penguins nests among the bushes close to the sea. The setting is quiet, with few other visitors, and the guide leads a walk among the burrows. The route then continues to Punta Ninfas, a headland with towering cliffs, an old lighthouse and sweeping views over the Atlantic. Sea lions, cormorants and other seabirds are common here, and in the whale season, roughly June to December, southern right whales may be visible from the clifftops. At midday the group sits down to a Patagonian asado, a barbecue of lamb or beef cooked on an open fire, with salads, bread and local drinks. The meal is a highlight, and the rural atmosphere gives a sense of Patagonian life. This is a small-group style day, more expensive than the standard tours, but it offers intimacy and exclusivity. As the tour has no ratings yet, check the schedule, season and inclusions with the operator before booking.

The attraction of this itinerary is its quiet. Punta Tombo and Peninsula Valdes are famous and can be busy, whereas El Pedral and Punta Ninfas see far fewer people. That makes it easier to take photographs without crowds and to watch animals undisturbed. The penguins are present from roughly September to March; outside that time the day focuses on the cliffs, sea lions and the asado. Ask the operator what to expect on your dates.

Roads in this part of Chubut are mostly unpaved, and the last stretches can be rough, so the tour uses sturdy vehicles and an experienced driver. Expect dust, wind and long distances. The cliffs at Punta Ninfas are high and exposed, with no railings in places, so follow the guide's instructions and keep children close. Stay well back from edges, especially on windy days.

The asado is part of the cultural experience. Argentines treat the barbecue as a social ritual, with meat cooked slowly over embers and shared at a long table. Vegetarians should tell the operator in advance so that alternatives can be arranged. Drinks may be included or extra. Wear layers, sturdy shoes and sun protection, and bring a camera with a zoom lens.

This tour suits couples, small families and travellers who want an unhurried day and are willing to pay more for a less-visited route. If you only have one day to spare, compare it with the standard penguin trips, which have more reviews and a bigger colony, but for a different experience this is an excellent choice.

Because the tour covers remote ground, bring a small first-aid kit, plenty of water and any medication you need. Mobile phone coverage can be patchy, so agree a meeting plan with your companions and listen to the guide. The reward for the effort is a day of space and silence that many travellers consider the best of their trip. Ask the operator how many guests share each vehicle, since smaller groups make the walk among the burrows quieter.