Hotel Peninsula Valdes is named after the reserve that draws most visitors to this part of Patagonia, and it makes sense as a base for anyone whose trip is built around whales, penguins and sea lions. The hotel is in Puerto Madryn rather than on the peninsula itself, which means you are near the town's restaurants, shops and tour offices and about an hour and a half from the village of Puerto Piramides. Expect a comfortable, mid-range hotel with a helpful reception and the sort of routines that suit a wildlife trip: early breakfasts, packed lunches on request, luggage storage and help arranging pickups. Rates vary by season, so check the current price, the type of room and what is included when you book. The hotel is a good choice for couples, families and small groups who want a sensible, clean base and plan to spend most days out. For those who want to stay on the peninsula itself, Puerto Piramides has a small number of inns, though they fill quickly in high season and are best booked far ahead. Staying in Puerto Madryn gives you more choice of restaurants and activities, and day trips to the peninsula are easy to arrange from here.
Location and access
The hotel is in Puerto Madryn, so you can walk or take a short taxi ride to the seafront. Day trips to the peninsula leave early and collect guests at their hotels, so ask the reception which pickup point is used for your tour. The airport is a short drive away, and buses to Trelew and Buenos Aires use the central terminal.
Rooms and services
Rooms are usually simple, with private bathrooms, heating and Wi-Fi. If you are travelling in winter, check that the heating is reliable, and in summer ask about cooling. Breakfast is typically early and straightforward. Ask about laundry service if you plan a sea lion snorkel and need swimwear dried.
Who it suits
Travellers who prefer a name that matches their purpose, and who want to be close to tour services. The hotel works for families, as there are enough restaurants and activities nearby to occupy children. It is also a fine base for solo travellers, who can meet others at breakfast and join group tours.
The best seasons are spring and early summer, but whale watchers should aim for the months between June and December. Pair your stay with the Peninsula Valdes full-day tour, the Puerto Piramides whale sailing and the Playa El Doradillo shore watching. For a more characterful hotel, see Hotel Bahia Nueva, and for an apartment-style stay, the Patagonia Apart Hotel.
Why stay here
- ✓Tour pickup from the hotel
- ✓Early breakfast
- ✓Packed lunches on request
- ✓Luggage storage
- ✓Wi-Fi
- ✓Heating in winter
- ✓Near restaurants and tour offices
- ✓Taxis and bus terminal nearby
Good questions
Is the hotel on Peninsula Valdes?+
No. It is in Puerto Madryn, around an hour and a half from Puerto Piramides.
Can I stay on the peninsula instead?+
Puerto Piramides has a few inns, but they book up early in high season.
Is it suitable for solo travellers?+
Yes, it is a practical base with easy access to group tours.
