Dusky Dolphins at Sunrise

A magical encounter in Puerto Madryn to appreciate maritime wildlife in its natural habitat at the quietest time of the day.

Puerto Madryn, in the province of Chubut, is mostly known as a whale watching site from May to December, and also for the penguin rookery in Punta Tombo, active from September to March. But in the summer, when the whale season is over, these Atlantic waters are visited by Dusky dolphins.

Dusky dolphins playing in Puerto Madryn_PH Jorge Barone

Among other areas, off South America this species range from Southern Peru to Cape Horn; commonly found from Mar del Plata to Peninsula Valdés. They can be easily spotted from the shore, jumping and surfing waves.

We discovered a funnier way to connect with these rare dark dolphins and with other maritime animals. Departing from the Piedra Buena pier at sunrise, when the tide is calm and the day begins, the chances to spot them are higher and so is to get closer to them.

A close encounter_PH Jorge Barone

Early in the morning, you will go on board a Zodiac boat and get deep into the waters of the Golfo Nuevo. Joined by the bilingual guides specialized in maritime fauna, through the navigation you will learn about this ecosystem and these dolphins’ biological cycle, reproduction, socialization and feeding habits.

Keep an eye on the water! Any subtle movement suddenly may become into wildlife in action right in front of you. You will share a moment in these magnificent animals´ lives, appreciating them in the freedom of their natural habitat.

Dusky Dolphins_Puerto Madryn 06As in any nature watching experience, you should expect surprises. Many birds -as the South American tern and the Magellanic cormorant- and also sea lions chose these Patagonian shores to rest on the cliffs and boulder beaches, so you may get to see and learn about them too when you pass by Punta Loma, where they settled their colony. If you are lucky, you may also meet other cetaceans curious enough to come close.

Sea Lion in Puerto Madryn_PH Jorge Barone

You will definitely enjoy this relaxing navigation, feeling the sea breeze and your heart pumping fast knowing that in any possible moment wildlife may show up as close to you as it can be.

Dusky dolphins in Puerto Madryn_PH Jorge Barone

GENERAL INFORMATION
  • Includes navigation on Zodiac boat, bilingual specialized guide, a snack, photography service (pictures not included). Transfers to and from the pier not included.
  • Operates daily from December to April. From two to three departures from Piedra Buena pier: 6:30 am (sunrise) – 9:30 am – 1:00 pm.
  • 2-2:30 hs Regular navigation shared with other guests. Departure is guaranteed (weather permitting) with a minimum of 10 pax. For this matter, we recommend this activity for groups, or check availability for FITS on specific required dates.
  • The navigation main objective is to encounter dusky dolphins but also visiting the sea lion colony in Punta Loma, Folias shipwreck in Paraná beach, Punta Este and piers; depending on time and weather conditions.
  • Activity subject to weather conditions. The navigation route and itinerary may change or the activity may be cancelled without previous notice. Dusky dolphins watching can not be assured given to the species characteristics and unspecified location.
  • Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, cap or hat, a coat, drinking water.

Nature & Relax at the Iberá Wetlands

Right by the mysterious Iberá Wetlands, find a colonial and cozy natural environment, home-made meals and daily activities in the first touristic estancia in Corrientes, with the personalized attention of its owners.

Located northeast of Corrientes province, on the banks of the Iberá Wetlands and close to the San Ignacio Jesuit ruins, the Estancia San Juan Poriahú is a traditional ranch, nowadays dedicated to breeding cattle.

Estancia San Juan de Poriahu, a farm in the Ibera Wetlands, Corrientes Province, Argentina
Estancia San Juan de Poriahu, Iberá Wetlands, Corrientes Province.

Once upon a time a Jesuit residence itself, its origins date back to the 17th century when the Society of Jesus founded its famous townships in Paraguay, Brazil and Argentina. Today, Ana María is the current owner of the estancia and Marcos -her son- is the one who takes care of it. The story goes that Marcos’ grandfather, Don Ernesto, surprisingly inherited the colonial farmhouse and 5.000 hectares from a friend that passed away. In time, more land was acquired to reach the final 13.000 hectares that the estancia occupies now.

Marcos used to spend his summer vacations here when he was a child and today he has become a renowned naturalist and expert of the area. Also he may be one of the guides that take you on a boat ride, drive or hike through this ecosystem and tell you everything he knows about it.

Capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) at Estancia San Juan de Poriahu, Ibera Wetlands (Esteros del Ibera), Corrientes Province, Argentina
Capibara at the Wetlands

Visiting and staying at Poriahú is to travel back to colonial times. The aged Jesuit farmhouse has thick adobe walls, a palm roof (typical of this region), a gallery and an outdoor pool to relax and contemplate nature. There are also nine wide and simple twin rooms with private or shared bathroom. The family keeps an eye on the details and makes an effort to create a homey atmosphere in the rooms and common areas, such as the shared dining room and the living room. Meals are always homemade and include regional dishes. You may even taste our traditional asado!

Cattle at Estancia San Juan de Poriahu, a cattle farm in the Ibera Wetlands, Corrientes Province, Argentina
Cattle at Estancia San Juan de Poriahu

Surrounded by an ancient and exuberant grove and the characteristic humidity of the marshlands, Poriahú is the best alternative to not only visit the historic ruins nearby but to take part on any ecotourism activity available at the region.

Among the activities that the estancia has to chose from, you can´t miss the boat ride through the wetlands. Jump onto a canoe conducted by a guide and navigate this magic aquatic environment girdled by colorful vegetation and rich native wildlife that you will be able to see and listen everywhere. You may spot roseate spoonbills, maguari storks, whistling herons, yacarés (caymans), marsh deers, aguará guazú (maned wolves), river otters and the cute capibaras or carpinchos.

Boat at Estancia San Juan de Poriahu, Ibera Wetlands, a marshland in Corrientes Province, Argentina
Boat at Estancia San Juan de Poriahu

Other daily options include horseback riding joined by the resident gauchos, photographic safari, guided hikes for bird and fauna watching, night tour for yacaré watching, off-road 4×4 ride within the ranch and rural activities such as cattle branding and bath, among others. Keep in mind that the activities are subject to weather conditions.

Gauchos on a traditional Argentinian cattle farm, Estancia San Juan de Poriahu, Ibera Wetlands, Corrientes Province, Argentina
Gauchos riding through the Wetlands

After an active day you will certainly enjoy to relax by the pool and share a mate while the sun sets in this enchanting place, where nature and wildlife have open access at anytime.

Swimming Pool at Estancia San Juan de Poriahu, Ibera Wetlands, Corrientes Province, Argentina
Swimming Pool at Estancia San Juan de Poriahu

Please, contact your Kallpa Tour executive for more information about the 4 days / 3 nights program with accommodation and activities at Estancia San Juan Poriahú in Esteros del Iberá.

 

Birdwatching in El Calafate

Only 1 km away from El Calafate´s downtown and really close to the Argentino Lake lies the Laguna Nimez Ecological Reserve. Being one of the best urban reserves in Patagonia, this is an ideal place for birdwatching.

Laguna Nimez hides beautiful natural treasures: almost 80 bird species -permanent and migratory- show off at this lagoon, bragging on their beauty, diverse colors and flair. Besides the bird life, the reserve presents typical patagonic steppe vegetation, characterised for different short bushes, reed beds and meadows that blend perfectly with the fauna.

mora-ceniciento-at-laguna-nimez-2

At dawn we met our guide at this patagonic bird sanctuary for a relaxed and instructive walk. For anyone curious about exploring a natural environment, this is certainly a contemplative stroll to appreciate, learn and get closer to nature,

group-at-laguna-nimez

Along the trail, we moved slowly and stopped at the panoramic spots to observe quietly the birds´ different feeding and nesting habits and also to discover the scrubs and reed beds where they rest around the lagoon. Learning about their behavior and characteristics helps to understand their relationship with the ecosystem.

Around the reserve, there are several explanatory signs about the flora and fauna that can be spotted in the area. Also, the guide helps to interpret and understand this natural environment using all the senses and paying attention to details all around.

lechuzon-ceniciento-at-laguna-nimez-2

This is how we were able to spot black-necked swans, groups of flamingos, upland geese, ducks, sparrowhawks, silvery grebes, lapwings, red-gartered coots, black-faced ibis and chimangos. But don’t forget that there almost 80 species all around!

Through the path we got to several panoramic viewpoints. At Argentino Lake´s lookout, the most amazing 360 degrees view showed us not only the lake itself but the whole reserve, the Isla Solitaria, the Andes and El Calafate city surrounded by mounts Huiliche and Calafate. A scene to remember!

birdwatching-at-laguna-nimez

The interpretive walk of the wetlands is about 3 km long and it takes approximately 2 hours. There is enough time for taking lots of pictures, observing the specimens, receiving the guide’s complete explanations and even to have a snack whilst enjoying the view of this delightful lagoon.

cucharas-ceniciento-at-laguna-nimez-2

For anyone willing to make an incursion into the birding world or simply relax and enjoy the nature and its wonders, this experience sharpens the senses to discover scents, sounds and pictures in the environment, so that nothing is left unnoticed.

Don’t forget to contact your Kallpa Tour Executive for more information and exact rates for this birdwatching excursion.

ceniciento-at-laguna-nimez

GENERAL INFORMATION

  • Half day excursion.
  • Regular daily operation at 5:30 pm, starting at the Reserve.
  • For private excursion, min. 3 pax required and max. 10 pax (suggested).
  • No age limit.
  • No cancellation upon bad weather.
  • Occasionally, exceptional floods may difficult the access to the trails. If this should happen, the condition and accessibility to the reserve will be previously notified. If the excursion must be cancelled, 100% of the paid fee will be refunded or we may suggest to do it another day, as long as the passenger is available to do so and the if paths are in the right conditions.
  • Recommendations: dress in layers and wear comfortable and warm clothes, preferably a windbreaker or waterproof jacket for the exterior layer. Wear shoes suitable for walking and preferably waterproof. Bring sunglasses, sun lotion and a hat or cap, extra warming clothes just in case and a bottle of water.

SERVICES INCLUDED

  • Bilingual English/Spanish specialized guide at the Reserve.
  • Binoculars and telescope for borrowing.
  • Snack (tea, coffee or mate with some cookies).
  • Entrance fee to the reserve.

SERVICES NOT INCLUDED

  • International/domestic flights.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Transfer from and to hotel (upon request).

CANCELLATION POLICY

  • 48 hs in advance, free of charge.
  • 24 hs in advance, 50% of the fee will be refunded per person.
  • Less than 24 hs in advance, 100% of the fee will be charged.

 

A walk among Penguins

There are few Magellanic Penguins colonies in Patagonia and one of them – the only one in Tierra del Fuego – can be found close to the oldest estancia in this province.

This full day adventure begins at Ushuaia´s town pier, where we board a board and head southeast to discover the Beagle Channel and finally arrive to Estancia Harberton, located 90 km away from the city.

Beagle Channel cruise observing Sea Lion colony, Ushuaia, Tierra Del Fuego, Patagonia, Argentina
Sea Lions Island

The channel´s natural surrounding offers a mountainous landscape and a few islands that we can see from a short distance. On the way, we stop at the Birds´ Island where it is possible to spot a colony of imperial shags and other birds such as skuas, southern giant petrels and black-browed albatross. Next by, there´s the Sea Lions´ Island, where we can watch these big south american mammals relaxing one over the other.

The picture perfect moment takes place once we spot the famous Les Éclaireurs lighthouse,  also known as the lighthouse at the end of the world after the homonymous novel by Jules Verne. A curious fact: in the novel, the writer did not refer to this particular lighthouse but to the one located at the Isla de los Estados, the San Juan Salvamento.

Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse and cormorant colony on an island in the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia, Tierra Del Fuego, Argentina
Les Éclaireurs lighthouse

Finally we arrive at the pier in Estancia Harberton, which is the closest to Martillo Island. Here, we embark on a semi rigid boat to reach the penguin rookery and start the walk.

Since 1978, the estancia has been also a working natural reserve, covering over 50.000 acres of mountains, forests, lakes and islands. Martillo Island – which native name is Yécapasela – is on this territory and since 2009 has a growing colony of Magellanic and Gentoo Penguins and also rock Cormorants nesting on the cliffs to the south.

Estancia Harberton
Estancia Harberton

This island is a great habitat for these species since there are very few predators in the area, abundant food and the ground and vegetation provide adequate shelter for their nests. Every year the penguins start arriving early in October for the the annual breeding and raising season, and then leave around late March to begin their usual migration northward for more than 6 months in the sea.

penguin-family-at-martillo-island

By agreement, only 80 persons per day are allowed to walk on a designated trail among the Magellanic Penguins in this island, joined by a specialized guide that teaches about their habits and behavior. Today, we are one of those lucky people to walk for an hour among these curious birds and learn about them. It is a magic experience to be so close to these animals, free in their natural habitat.

close-to-the-penguins-at-martillo-island-01

Once the time for joining the penguins is up, we sail back to the estancia for lunch (not included) and also a visit to the Acatushún Museum, where a collection of over 2700 marine mammals and 2300 birds skeletons can be appreciated.

About around 3.30 pm we begin our way back to Ushuaia but this time on a minibus, driving through the Provincial Route J and the National Route 3, making a few stops on the way to see the iconic flag trees.

As the day ends and we approach thepenguins-at-martillo-island city, it is amazing to think that only a couple of hours ago we were so close to nature and one of the most loveable and funny birds ever. A once in a lifetime experience, only in Ushuaia, Argentina.

Please contact a Kallpa Tour Executive for more information about this and other tours available.

GENERAL INFORMATION

  • Daily operation from December 12th 2016 to March 31st 2017.
  • Departs at 9 am from Ushuaia´s town pier. Returns by bus at 3.30 pm and arrival at 5 pm.
  • Full day shared excursion with other guests.
  • Requested group size 8, max. 20 guests.
  • Not suitable for disabled people.

SERVICES INCLUDED

  • Beagle Channel navigation, walk in penguin rookery and return by bus to Ushuaia.
  • Entrance fee to the estancia.
  • Bilingual English/Spanish guide.
  • Port tax.

SERVICES NOT INCLUDED

  • International/domestic flights.
  • Transfers to and from hotel to the pier.
  • Lunch and beverages.

CANCELLATION POLICY

  • Full refund in case of bad weather conditions or any other factor that exceeds the pax.
  • 48 hs in advance, 10% administrative cost.
  • Between 48 and 24 hs in advance, 50% penalty.
  • Within 24 hs, no refund.