Bustling Puerto Madryn serves up Patagonia’s finest natural encounters right from your cruise ship. This coastal gateway delivers three standout shore excursions that consistently wow visitors:
The massive Punta Tombo penguin colony (where you’ll walk among thousands of these charming birds), the wildlife-rich Peninsula Valdes (perfect for spotting whales, sea lions, and elephant seals), and the scenic Punta Cuevas coastal bike route (great for active travelers).
Both private and group options run regularly, though accessibility is limited for wheelchair users. I love the penguin colony tour especially – the guides are top-notch and the experience is unforgettable.
Let’s explore these outstanding shore excursions in detail.
Key Points
- Punta Tombo Excursions offer the chance to observe the largest Magellanic penguin colony, with early tours providing fewer crowds and better wildlife activity.
- Peninsula Valdes Excursions showcase the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s diverse wildlife, including elephant seals, sea lions, and Magellanic penguins.
- Private Tours to Peninsula Valdes or Punta Tombo provide personalized experiences with private transportation, knowledgeable guides, and flexible schedules.
- City and Wildlife Tours combine Punta Loma Sea Lions Reserve with cultural exploration of Puerto Madryn, offering a diverse range of experiences.
- Sea Lion Tours allow visitors to witness majestic sea lions in their natural habitat, with flexible schedules to accommodate cruise ship timetables.
Cruise Shore Excursion Punta Tombo – Tickets Included – Puerto Madryn Patagonia
This shore excursion provides travelers with the opportunity to visit the renowned Punta Tombo penguin colony, located approximately 2.5 hours from Puerto Madryn.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a box lunch with dietary options, and a professional guide for groups of 5 or more.
Visitors can expect to see Magellanic penguins in their natural habitat, as well as other wildlife like guanacos and flamingos.
Past participants have praised the knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation.
While the walk to the colony may be longer than anticipated, early tours offer fewer crowds and better penguin activity.
Booking flexibility and clear communication from the operators make this a convenient shore excursion option.
Read our full review: Cruise Shore Excursion Punta Tombo – Tickets Included – Puerto Madryn Patagonia Review
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Cruise Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes – Pto Madryn – Patagonia – Argentina
For travelers looking to explore the natural wonders of the Patagonian coastline, the Cruise Shore Excursion to Peninsula Valdes from Puerto Madryn offers an exceptional opportunity.
This shared tour takes visitors to a wildlife refuge, visitors center, and sea lion colonies, with the potential to spot guanacos, elephant seals, Magellanic penguins, and more.
While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, the tour boasts an average rating of 4.0 out of 90 reviews, with knowledgeable guides providing insights in English and Spanish.
Priced from €144.76 and with a maximum of 23 travelers, the excursion includes a box lunch and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Wheelchair accessibility, stroller access, and infant seats make this tour suitable for a variety of travelers.
Read our full review: Cruise Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes – Pto Madryn – Patagonia – Argentina Review
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Visiting the Punta Tombo Penguin Colony is a must-do shore excursion for cruise passengers docking in Puerto Madryn, Argentina.
The 2.5-hour drive each way is well worth it to witness the Magellan penguins in their natural habitat. The shared tour, with a maximum of 17 travelers, includes air-conditioned transportation, a boxed lunch, and a knowledgeable local guide.
Travelers can observe the penguins’ breeding and migration behaviors, walk among them, and potentially spot other wildlife like guanacos and birds.
With a 94% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this excursion offers an exceptional wildlife experience. Guests praise the guides’ expertise and communication skills in both Spanish and English.
Read our full review: Punta Tombo Shore Excursion W/Box Lunch(Shared Tour for Cruises) Review
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Cruise Shore Excursion Ea San Lorenzo Peninsula Valdes – Patagonia – Argentina
Cruise passengers docking in Puerto Madryn can embark on an immersive shore excursion to the San Lorenzo Peninsula within Patagonia.
This 91% recommended tour takes travelers on a scenic drive through the region, offering close encounters with Magellanic penguins, sea lions, and elephant seals.
Highlights include visiting a large penguin colony and observing diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. The tour includes a lunch of Patagonian lamb and salad at Estancia San Lorenzo, as well as park entrance fees and a knowledgeable guide.
While some travelers noted cramped transportation and long gravel road drives, many found the unique wildlife experiences and coastal scenery to be well worth the excursion.
Read our full review: Cruise Shore Excursion Ea San Lorenzo Peninsula Valdes – Patagonia – Argentina Review
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Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes With All Inclusive-Puerto Madryn
Discovering the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Peninsula Valdes is a must-do shore excursion for cruise passengers docking in Puerto Madryn.
This private tour offers nature lovers and first-time visitors a 100% traveler-recommended experience. Explore the region’s incredible wildlife, including elephant seals and sea lions in their natural habitats.
The relaxed walking tour of Puerto Pirámides city provides an up-close look at the local area. With an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and a box lunch catered to dietary needs, the tour is all-inclusive.
Conveniently starting from the Comandante Luis Piedra Buena Pier, the excursion guarantees a timely return to the dock, accommodating up to 17 travelers.
Priced from $125 per person, this shore excursion is a must-book for your Puerto Madryn cruise stop.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes With All Inclusive-Puerto Madryn Review
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Shore Excursion Punta Tombo With All Inclusive – Puerto Madryn
Travelers visiting Puerto Madryn can embark on an unforgettable shore excursion to the renowned Punta Tombo, home to the largest colony of Magellanic penguins.
Offered by Sussanich Turismo, this tour provides an up-close experience with these charming seabirds. The excursion includes transportation, a box lunch, and an English-speaking guide.
Participants can observe the penguins caring for their chicks and preparing for hunting expeditions. With a maximum group size of 16, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience.
Accessibility is excellent, making it suitable for most travelers. Priced from $125, this shore excursion receives exceptional reviews and a Badge of Excellence, ensuring a memorable outing in Puerto Madryn.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Punta Tombo With All Inclusive – Puerto Madryn Review
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SIB Cruise Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes – Pto Madryn – Patagonia Argentina
For those visiting Puerto Madryn, the SIB Cruise Shore Excursion to Peninsula Valdes offers an immersive exploration of this renowned nature reserve.
The 5-hour tour includes transportation, a box lunch, and a professional guide. Visitors can expect to see a variety of wildlife, such as Magellan penguins, sea lions, and guanacos.
While the tour generally receives positive reviews, some past participants have noted long travel times, limited wildlife sightings, and language barriers with guides.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and the cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: SIB Cruise Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes – Pto Madryn – Patagonia Argentina Review
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Shore Excursion to Peninsula Valdés for Cruises
The Cruise Ships Valdes Peninsula Regular Tour offers an immersive exploration of the renowned Peninsula Valdés nature reserve for visitors to Puerto Madryn. Priced at $128.34, the 4-star rated tour is operated by Odisea Patagonica and includes an air-conditioned vehicle, park tickets, lunch, and tips.
Passengers can expect to see a variety of wildlife, such as guanacos, penguins, and sea lions, as well as stunning landscapes. While some travelers have praised the guide’s attentiveness, others have raised concerns about the vehicle’s comfort and the guide’s English proficiency.
The tour provides a comprehensive experience of the region’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion to Peninsula Valdés for Cruises Review
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Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes or Punta Tombo – Private Car
For those seeking a more personalized and immersive experience of the stunning Peninsula Valdés or the penguin colony at Punta Tombo, the private car tour is an excellent choice.
Operated by the highly-rated Sussanich Turismo, this tour provides private transportation, entrance fees, and lunch, all at a reasonable price per group.
With a perfect 5-star rating from 11 reviews, the tour is recommended by 100% of travelers.
Flexibility is assured, as the tour can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Whether you’re interested in the unique wildlife of the Peninsula or the adorable penguins of Punta Tombo, this private car tour is an exceptional way to explore the region.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes or Punta Tombo – Private Car Review
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Shore Excursion Punta Loma Sea Lions Reserve Including Puerto Madryn City Tour
Visitors seeking to explore the fascinating Punta Loma Sea Lions Reserve and discover the charming city of Puerto Madryn will find this guided tour an excellent choice.
With an overall rating of 3.5 from 16 reviews, the tour provides an up-close experience with sea lions in their natural habitat and a sightseeing trip through Puerto Madryn.
Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or port, along with a professional driver and licensed guide, are included. However, food, drinks, and gratuities are not.
Reviewers note the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, though some found the tour overpriced or lacking in content.
The start time may vary depending on tide conditions, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Punta Loma Sea Lions Reserve Including Puerto Madryn City Tour Review
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From Punta Madryn: Punta Tombo Shore Excursion With Lunch
Travelers can embark on an exciting excursion to the Punta Tombo National Reserve, the world’s largest colony of Magellanic penguins, from the port of Puerto Madryn.
This 7-hour tour costs $139 per person and includes roundtrip transportation, entrance fees, a packed lunch, and a bottled water.
Guests will take a 2.5-hour van ride to the reserve, where they’ll enjoy a guided tour, scenic views, and a 1.5-kilometer walk to observe the waddling penguins.
The tour also includes a visit to the Interpretation Center to learn about the penguins’ life cycles.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this shore excursion offers a memorable wildlife experience.
Read our full review: From Punta Madryn: Punta Tombo Shore Excursion With Lunch Review
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Peninsula Valdes: Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers
A magnificent opportunity awaits cruise passengers disembarking at Puerto Madryn – the chance to explore the awe-inspiring Peninsula Valdés, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its diverse wildlife and pristine landscapes.
This 6-hour shore excursion, priced from $150 per person, takes visitors to the Istmo Carlos Ameghino and the stunning Caleta Valdés, where they can view elephant seals, sea lions, and Magellanic penguins.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, an English/Spanish-speaking guide, and entrance fees.
While not suitable for those with mobility issues, the excursion offers the chance to witness the region’s incredible natural wonders and create lasting memories.
Read our full review: Peninsula Valdes: Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers Review
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Punta Tombo: Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers
The Punta Tombo shore excursion offers cruise passengers a unique opportunity to explore one of the largest Magellanic penguin colonies in the world.
This 6-hour tour takes visitors on a 2-hour van ride to the Punta Tombo reserve, where they’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour guided tour among the penguins. The tour is available in English and Spanish, and small group sizes ensure personalized attention.
Highlights include witnessing penguin interactions up close and experiencing the beauty of the wildlife and nature.
While the tour itself is reasonably priced at $150 per person, the $15 entrance fee to the reserve isn’t included. Certain restrictions apply, so it’s important to review the details carefully before booking.
Read our full review: Punta Tombo: Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers Review
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Shore Excursion Lower Valley of Chubut River With Patagonian Dish
One popular shore excursion in Puerto Madryn is the “Lower Valley of Chubut River with Patagonian Dish” tour.
This 5-star rated excursion takes travelers on a journey through the lower valley of the Chubut River, showcasing the region’s Patagonian landscape.
The tour includes an English and Spanish-speaking guide, a delicious Patagonian-style lunch, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Pickup is at the Comandante Luis Piedra Buena Pier, with the tour operating daily from 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM.
It can accommodate up to 20 travelers, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Most visitors can participate, making this an excellent option to explore the natural beauty of the Chubut River valley.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Lower Valley of Chubut River With Patagonian Dish Review
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Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes With Box Lunch &Entry Fee Madryn
Travelers looking to explore the stunning Peninsula Valdes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, can embark on a private tour that offers a comprehensive experience.
This tour is ideal for nature lovers and first-time visitors, providing the opportunity to spot elephant seals and sea lions in their natural habitat.
The package includes an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, a box lunch, and a professional tour guide.
Travelers can also enjoy a relaxed walking tour of Puerto Pirámides city.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and with a maximum of 17 participants, it ensures a personalized and intimate experience.
Priced at $125 per person, the tour offers a Lowest Price Guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes With Box Lunch &Entry Fee Madryn Review
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Shore Excursion to the Punta Tombo Reserve for Cruises
Cruisers exploring the stunning Punta Tombo Reserve can embark on a captivating shore excursion that provides unparalleled opportunities to witness the region’s diverse wildlife.
This 5-star rated excursion offers an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, a box lunch with mineral water, and all applicable fees and taxes, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience.
With a maximum capacity of 17 travelers, this tour allows for an intimate and personalized adventure.
The meeting point at the Comandante Luis Piedra Buena Pier ensures seamless coordination, and the option for pickup adds to the convenience.
Accessibility features, such as wheelchair and stroller access, cater to diverse needs, making this excursion suitable for most travelers.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion to the Punta Tombo Reserve for Cruises Review
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Shore Excursion Punta Cuevas Bike & Adventure – Puerto Madryn
The Punta Cuevas Bike & Adventure shore excursion in Puerto Madryn offers cruisers a thrilling way to explore the region’s natural beauty.
Lasting approximately 7-8 hours, this moderate-level activity includes the use of a bicycle and a bilingual guide. Participants will meet at the Comandante Luis Piedra Buena Pier and be assisted in finding the instructor.
The tour operates daily from March 14, 2024 to September 15, 2025, with morning departure times. This adventure isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions.
Priced from $90 per person, the excursion can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexible planning.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Punta Cuevas Bike & Adventure – Puerto Madryn Review
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Punta Tombo Cruise Excursion With Penguins
Punta Tombo, located along the Patagonian coast, is home to one of the largest colonies of Magellanic penguins in the world.
Visitors can embark on a cruise excursion to observe these captivating creatures in their natural habitat. The tour, operated by Loika Expediciones, departs from Puerto Madryn and accommodates up to 16 travelers. Priced from $145 per person, the excursion allows guests to disembark at the Comandante Luis Piedra Buena Pier and explore the penguin colony.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, strollers and infant seats are permitted. Flexible booking options and a lowest price guarantee make this an attractive choice for wildlife enthusiasts visiting Puerto Madryn.
Read our full review: Punta Tombo Cruise Excursion With Penguins Review
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Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes/Punta Tombo – Minibus Madryn
Set out on a comprehensive shore excursion that takes you to the stunning Peninsula Valdes and the Punta Tombo penguin colony.
This private tour includes private transportation, entrance fees, and a delightful lunch.
The tour starts from the Comandante Luis Piedra Buena Pier in Puerto Madryn, with a flexible start time confirmed in advance.
The excursion is accessible, with infant seats and wheelchair-friendly surfaces.
Priced at €2,123.33 for up to 15 people, this tour offers a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Reserve now and pay later to enjoy maximum flexibility.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Peninsula Valdes/Punta Tombo – Minibus Madryn Review
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Shore Excursion Piramides Port & Sailing in Puerto Madryn
Visitors to Puerto Madryn can enjoy a captivating shore excursion that combines the enchanting Piramides Port and an exhilarating sailing adventure.
This private tour, provided by Puerto Madryn’s top tour operator, includes round-trip transportation, a licensed guide, and all necessary tickets and admissions. Guests will explore the historic Piramides Port, then embark on a sailing journey to witness the majestic sea lions in their natural habitat.
The tour is adaptable for cruise ship passengers, with flexibility to accommodate varying disembarkation and re-boarding times. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, making it an ideal choice for families and groups of various ages and abilities.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Piramides Port & Sailing in Puerto Madryn Review
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The Sum Up
Puerto Madryn offers a variety of exciting shore excursions for cruise passengers. From visiting the famous Punta Tombo penguin colony to exploring the stunning Peninsula Valdes, there’s something for all. Travelers can also enjoy biking, sailing, and even visiting a port town. With so many options, cruise visitors are sure to find the perfect way to experience the natural wonders of Patagonia.