On Day 4 of my cruise to Antarctica, I purchased a shore excursion in Puerto Madryn, Argentina for a walk with the penguins. The tour was named Punta Ninfas and Penguins at El Pedral Lodge.
Beaches
Puerto Madryn is a vibrant city in Patagonia, boasting beautiful coastal avenues overlooking the huge natural amphitheater of Golfo Nuevo. Naturally, Golfo Nuevo protects Puerto Madryn as it is formed by Peninsula Valdes and Punto Ninas. Not surprising, Puerto Madryn is one of the most sheltered places on the Patagonia coast. Blessed with 5 kilometers of beaches bordering the city, Puerto Madryn forms a gateway to other Argentina attractions.
Mimosa
Interestingly, Puerto Madryn was founded on July 28th, 1865, upon the arrival of 150 Welsh immigrants aboard the ship “Mimosa.” Not surprisingly, the Welsh named this natural harbor Puerto Madryn after Loves Jones Parry, the Baron of Madryn in the country of Wales.
Part of the tour’s fun involves visiting the Estacion Pinguinos de Magallanes. The Magellanic penguin (Spheniscus magellanicus) is a South American penguin from coastal Patagonia, Argentina, Chile, and the Falkland Islands. Some migrate to Brazil and Uruguay. They appear north by Espirito Santo and are the most numerous Spheniscus penguins.
Penguin Cuteness
Join the fun and see some penguin cuteness captured in the photos! Indeed, do walk with the penguins!
More About A Walk with the Magellanic Penguins
Once upon a time, Magellanic penguins appeared in a colony off Argentina’s coast. These penguins were known for their distinctive black and white feathers and their adorable waddling gait. They were beloved by tourists and locals alike.
But the penguins’ cuteness also attracted unwanted attention. Sadly, poachers stole their eggs or captured the birds for black market sales. Fortunately, conservation efforts helped protect these penguins and habitat.
The Magellanic penguins boast an interesting provenance. Named after famed European explorer Ferdinand Magellan, he first spotted them in the 16th century.
Fascinating Lives
The penguins lead fascinating lives, spending most of their time swimming in the ocean or searching for food. Basically, they form bonds with their mates and raised their young in close-knit family groups.
While Magellanic penguins have faced challenges, they persist with their natural charm and resilience. Accordingly, they win the hearts of people worldwide.
Readers may also enjoy our reviews of Thousand Islands and Erie Canal, Best Travel Companions, Dinner with Gangsters and Ghosts, Four Days on the Bourbon Trail, and Making Memories in the Falklands.
