Orcas Hunting | 10 days

Recommended dates: February to April

Step into this natural arena where one of the world’s most fascinating spectacles unfolds. Explore with exclusive access the dramatic coastline of Península Valdés, a UNESCO World Heritage Site bustling with wildlife. From this secluded corner of the world and accompanied by expert guidance every step of the way, witness one of nature’s rarest hunting techniques: the magnificent orcas’ intentional stranding. Get your front rwo seat to meet mother nature at her most raw and unfiltered.

Rates per person starting at: USD 8,040

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Highlights of the journey

Orcas’ “intentional stranding” observation
Exclusive access to the area
Expert professionals accompanying your journey
Once-in-a-lifetime wildlife photography opportunities
UNESCO World Heritage site

A front row seat to the orcas’ killer dance

Península Valdés is an extraordinary destination where nature unfolds in its most dramatic and unfiltered form. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this rugged peninsula is home to a stunning array of marine life, from vast colonies of sea lions and elephant seals to the majestic southern right whales that frequent its waters. But what truly sets this place apart is the rare opportunity to witness one of the most remarkable hunting behaviors in the animal kingdom—the orcas’ intentional stranding technique.

Your stay at the charming Estancia La Ernestina places you in the heart of this pristine wilderness, offering front-row access to Punta Norte, where this awe-inspiring spectacle occurs. From February to April, highly skilled orcas patrol the coastline, timing their attacks with precision as they lunge onto the shore to catch unsuspecting sea lion pups. This rare and dramatic display of intelligence and strategy is one of the world’s most sought-after wildlife experiences, making Península Valdés an unparalleled destination for nature lovers and photographers eager to capture the raw beauty of the wild.

Itinerary

Everything you can expect, day by day.

Day 1 | Puerto Madrín – Punta Norte

Upon arrival at Puerto Madryn Airport in Argentina, you will be greeted and transferred to the stunning Península Valdés, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its extraordinary wildlife and natural beauty.

Sea lions at Peninsula Valdes Patagonia Argentina

Your destination is Estancia La Ernestina, a secluded and charming retreat perfectly situated for exploring the region’s unique landscapes and diverse fauna.

Meals: dinner

Days 2 to 9 | Punta Norte (Peninsula Valdes)

We’ll stay at a traditional estancia that has shared this natural treasure with its guests for over 90 years. The spectacular scenery and the wild and rugged coastline offer a unique opportunity to stay within a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visitors can spot various wildlife, including iconic orcas (killer whales), southern elephant seals, South American sea lions, penguins, and occasionally southern right whales. In addition, there are a variety of other animals, including foxes, armadillos, and other land fauna, as well as many different species of birds.

If you love nature, they have a treat in store for you! From the tiny creatures that lurk in coastal bushes to one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife events, where an orca leaps out of the water to capture baby seals, this estancia is a place like no other. We can go early in the morning to see the sunrise or go back home just after sunset. But, of course, it all depends on the weather and wildlife.

The owners have worked with world-renowned documentary crews and wildlife photographers, so they understand the desire to sit quietly and allow wildlife to ‘do what it wants.’

Orcas intentional stranding hunting technique in Peninsula Valdes Patagonia

Our days in this remote and cozy place will be utterly dedicated to documenting wildlife, but first of all, hunting orcas, one of the most fantastic phenomena of wild nature.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 10 | Punta Norte (Peninsula Valdes) – departure

Breakfast and check-out. We will drive back straight to Puerto Madryn airport, where we can take our flight to Buenos Aires and connections.

Orca catching a sea lion pup at the beach in Peninsula Valdes Patagonia

Meals: breakfast

CUSTOMIZE THIS JOURNEY

Tour Price

This is a tour designed for 2 guests in a shared room.

Rates per person starting at: USD 8,040 | Single supplement: USD 2,120

Payment Policy:

30% deposit
Balance due 60 days prior arrival

More Information

The deposit of 30% will be requested after the booking confirmation. It’s a guarantee of reservation and is not refunded in case of trip cancellation for any reason. The deposit amount will be deducted from the remainder of the payment.
The description of the itinerary is an idea of the activities we will seek to do during the expedition, which can be changed according to weather conditions, recommendations from the responsible local guide, or for reasons of force majeure.

Accommodation:

Peninsula Valdés: Estancia La Ernestina

Services:

Included

9 nights accommodation
Full board meals, except on arrival and departure days
Private transportation in A/C 4×4 vehicles
Entrance fees, national park fees and other taxes

Not Included

Any flights
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Early check-in e late check-out
Lunch, dinner and drinks not described in the itinerary
Personal expenses such as laundry, tipping, souvenirs, etc.
Any visa, if necessary

Cancellation and refund policies

All cancellations and trip change requests must be made in writing by mail or by email and received, and acknowledged by SouthQuest.
All cancellations requested up to 61 calendar days prior to departure have non-refundable security deposits unless SouthQuest is able to renegotiate the terms with the service providers. That is why it is important that cancellations are announced as early as possible.
Cancellations made with 60 calendar days or less prior to group starts are assessed a cancellation fee of 100% of the trip price, including domestic flights, extensions, and extra services such as hotel nights