Begin your day with a 35-mile drive from Puerto Madryn to the Valdes Peninsula, an important nature reserve that was first listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Your first stop will be at the visitors center, which houses an excellent collection and information about historical events that took place here, the ecosystems of the area, and the regional flora and fauna. Learn about this amazing ecosystem, featuring a variety of marine life, including orcas, elephant seals, fur seals, and Magellan penguins.

After exlporing the visitors center, continue on gravel roads to Caleta Valdes, a 21-mile stretch of protected land. Once there, you will have a chance to see the southern elephant seals, considered to be the world’s largest seals, and other various marine animals. There are different hiking paths and overlooks that will allow you to further explore. There may also be an opportunity to see a new penguin colony nearby.

Continue on to Puerto Pirámides, where you will have the opportunity to view a sea lion colony. If you are especially fortunate, you may even witness orcas hunting sea lions along the shoreline using their remarkable hunting technique of intentionally stranding themselves on the beach. Following your wildlife exploration, enjoy a relaxing three-course lunch at The Paradise Restaurant or a similar local restaurant. Lunch Menu:

Starter: Two Patagonian lamb empanadas

Main Course: Braised beef served with rustic potatoes

Dessert: Ice cream, homemade flan, or seasonal fresh fruit

Beverages: One bottle of water or a soft drink, plus one glass of local wine or beer

On the return drive to the cruise ship pier, keep an eye out for the region's native wildlife. You will also pass the impressive salt flats, before arriving back at the pier.

DISTINCTIVE VOYAGES DISCLAIMER:
Distinctive Voyages sailing dates and amenities, including exclusive shore events, are current at time of printing and are subject to change without notice. Amenities apply to 1st and 2nd passenger only. Cancellations, refunds, and penalties are imposed by the individual cruise lines. Distinctive Voyages amenities may be substituted if a minimum number of guests are not confirmed on any given departure. Combinability varies. Guests must be booked in a featured group or promo-code applied to receive amenities. If group space has been recalled or canceled by the cruise line, amenities cannot be applied nor are they eligible to be carried over to another departure.