Hola All,
Well certainly saw the penguins. It wasn´t quite what we expected as they were in burrows under bushes and spaced about 1m apart. We were hoping to see a large group out in the ocean. Actually quite a drive of about 400km to get there and back. Such is life.
Next day went out to Valdes peninsula. Again the day was quite a drive with about 200km on dirt road. First stop was puerto pyramides for whale watching. The water was calm and no wind and whales could be seen from the beach just lazing around! We took a boat out and folled a few whales around. Absolutely amazing watching a whale glide next to the boat within a meter. The 90min tour went like a flash. Think they were humpbacks returning with their calves and taking a break. Just wanted to get in a canoe and sit out there with them but no canoe available.
Next stop was near puento norte. Plenty of elephant seals and a lot of whales being very active. We got excited as the tide was high and killer whales often frequent on the tide. Unfortunately it was more humpbacks but still absolutely amazing. Elephant seals, humpback whales and sooty albatross passing in front of the viewing area.
Strangely the highlight of the trip was watching armadillos chase each other around! They move so quick and look like little piglets with armour on.
Unfortunately the peninsula is owned by farmers and it is unclear as to the actual park bit. Anyway it costs 45 peso each tourist and there isn`t much to show for it. Would have been nice to camp out on the peninsula and take our time. In retrospect we should have camped at puerto pyramides and watched the whales from the shore for a coule of days as it was really exciting.
Made a hastly decision to get out of the area. We booked the bus to buenos aires the day before and were leaving at 9pm. Yes another 18 hr trip! This time was cama not semi cama so it will will be with lounge couches for seats so more comfortable.
Adios,
David & Vanessa
