Argentina Scheduled Expedition
Patagonian Orcas
April 25 to 30 I 2027
TRIP TYPE
Scheduled
DURATION
6 days, 5 nights
DEPARTING FROM
Trelew (Arg)
GROUP SIZE (MAX)
6 Guests
ABOUT THIS TRIP
Top Predators of the Valdes Peninsula, Argentine Patagonia
Witness a wildlife phenomenon found nowhere else on Earth: the intentional beaching of Orcas to hunt sea lion pups. This extraordinary event is exclusive to the Valdes Peninsula, situated at Patagonia’s northeastern edge.
Every year from March to early May, young sea lion pups gather at rookeries to practice swimming. A unique group of Orcas has mastered a specialized hunting technique, stealthily tracking these inexperienced pups before surging onto the shore in a sudden ambush.
Researchers continue to study this remarkable behavior of the ocean’s apex predator, which occurs only at specific locations along the gravel shorelines of the Valdes Peninsula in Chubut, Argentina.
Our expedition takes us to the private coast of Estancia La Ernestina. Here, we will patiently patrol the area for the chance to observe and capture photographs of these dramatic hunting displays.
Operating from a traditional Patagonian sheep farm, guests will travel in a small, expert-led group. While we are positioned in the optimal location during the peak season with an experienced team, wildlife sightings remain subject to nature; however, we are committed to maximizing our time in the field to achieve this goal.
PRICING
USD 7,200
Per person, double occupancy · small groups of max 6 guests
rEADY FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP?
Itinerary in brief
Participants are required to arrive in Trelew on the day preceding the expedition’s start. A synchronized morning departure schedule will be established for the commencement of our journey on Day 1. We recommend booking flights from Buenos Aires to Trelew (REL). The journey officially begins and concludes in Puerto Madryn — located approximately 66 km (41 miles) from Trelew. Regular shuttle services operate between the airport and the city. Our team is available to assist with coordinating these transfers.
Our expedition begins with a private morning transfer from your hotel in Puerto Madryn to the Valdes Peninsula. This region is a premier wildlife sanctuary in Patagonia, sheltering a rich diversity of marine species, coastal fauna, and terrestrial birds.
We journey to the peninsula’s northern reaches to focus our efforts at the private Estancia La Ernestina. Its extensive gravel coastlines provide the definitive stage for observing specific orca pods that have refined the art of hunting sea lion pups over decades. Guests will be hosted at the estancia’s comfortable facilities, experiencing authentic Patagonian hospitality and regional gastronomy.
The peninsula is home to diverse species, including Lesser Rhea, Elegant Crested-Tinamou, and Magellanic Penguin, as well as Dusky Dolphins and Southern Elephant Seals. While the area is world-renowned for Southern Right Whales, please note they typically arrive later in the season, between July and November.
Our initial search session begins this afternoon. Guided by our hosts, we will review essential wildlife-viewing and photography protocols to optimize our upcoming field schedule. This also offers a chance to photograph the estancia’s varied wildlife against the backdrop of a dramatic Patagonian sunset.
Field sessions benefit from the profound expertise of local researchers who possess decades of experience tracking and interpreting the unique behaviors of these Patagonian orcas.
For the next four days, we will be positioned at optimal coastal locations before sunrise. Site selection is dictated by the activity at sea lion rookeries, weather conditions, and precise tide cycles. To maximize our opportunities, the team will spend the entire day in the field, supported by experts patrolling the coast to provide real-time updates on orca movements. Refreshments and lunch will be provided on-site.
The sudden nature of orca attacks demands constant vigilance; these dramatic events often occur without warning, requiring photographers to remain perpetually ready. As with any serious wildlife expedition, patience is paramount. While some days may be long and sightings elusive, we remain in the field until late afternoon, when hunting probability decreases.
Patagonia’s climate is famously unpredictable; April temperatures typically range from 0°C to 20°C (32°F–68°F). While heavy rain is rare in this sector, wind and cold are common. We advise dressing in several layers, including waterproof trousers and water-resistant footwear for the damp pebble beaches. Muted, earth-toned clothing is strongly encouraged to minimize our visual impact on the environment.
To maintain a respectful distance from the wildlife, a telephoto lens of at least 400mm is recommended; our experts frequently utilize 600mm lenses with teleconverters. A mid-range zoom is also valuable for closer encounters, while wide-angle lenses excel at capturing the vast landscapes. We suggest bringing both a tripod and a monopod for stability during long waits.
From mid-April to early May, sea lion pups become more adventurous and travel further from the shore. This shift requires the orcas to be increasingly strategic and effective in their hunting, providing a fascinating window into the apex predator’s adaptability amid cooler, variable weather.
Following a final morning session observing the orcas, we depart Estancia La Ernestina in the early afternoon. A private transfer will take you to Trelew airport for your departing flight, where our services conclude.
WHAT MAKES THIS TRIP SPECIAL
Trip Highlights
A trip specifically geared up to maximize the opportunities to watch and photograph Orcas while attempting to hunt sea lion pups at the Valdes Peninsula.
Comprehensive visit to the world’s only spot where Orcas show this intriguing hunting behavior — intentional beaching to capture prey.
Maximum field time, trying to watch and photograph orcas, from sunrise to sunset. Every moment counts in this once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience.
Field outings led by local orca experts with the support of the Punta Norte Orca Research group. The benefit of decades of experience.
Beyond Orcas, encounter Southern Right Whales, dolphins, sea lions, and abundant seabirds in the productive waters of the Peninsula.
Five full days visiting the Valdes Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and World Biosphere Reserve, home to extraordinary marine wildlife.
Stay at a traditional Estancia, a Patagonian sheep farm, enjoying the local hospitality and cuisine in an authentic rural setting.
PLAN YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE
Dates & Rates
PRICE PER PERSON
$7,200 USD
Based on double occupancy · All payments in US Dollars
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
$320 USD
Departures
Group Size:
Trips are guaranteed to depart with a minimum of 4 guests. Maximum group size: 6 participants
The above prices are per person in US Dollars, based on double occupancy. All payments are in US Dollars.
A single supplement will be added if single accommodations are requested.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Trip inclusions & exclusions
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- All accommodations
- All meals as stated in the itinerary
- Expert guide services throughout
- Private ground transportation during the tour
The services of one experienced orca researcher/tracker are included in the trip price in addition to the company of one of our tour leaders throughout the trip.
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
- Domestic flights
- Tipping for restaurants and guides
- Travel insurance
- Entrance tax to Chile
- Excess baggage charges
- À la carte dishes, snacks, drinks
- Laundry, telephone calls
- Anything of a purely personal nature
THE ACCOMMODATION
Estancia La Ernestina, Punta Norte, Valdes Peninsula
Guests will be hosted at the estancia’s comfortable facilities, a traditional working sheep farm featuring eight guest rooms. These accommodations are configured for twin or double occupancy, with the possibility of arranging an additional bed upon request. Each guest room includes an ensuite bathroom with a shower providing hot and cold running water, a washbasin, and a toilet, along with a gas heater for comfort. To ensure a reliable 24-hour electricity supply in this remote setting, the property utilizes a combination of solar energy and a generator. While satellite-based Wi-Fi is available, please be mindful that its capacity is limited by our secluded location. Regional gastronomy and local hospitality are central to the experience, with breakfast and dinner served daily in the dining room. All meals are expertly prepared on-site by the estancia’s skilled culinary team, and we highlight a traditional Patagonian asado (barbecue) held once a week. We kindly request that you inform us of any specific dietary requirements in advance of your arrival.
The expedition operates during the peak orca season, spanning from March through early May. This specific timing aligns with a wildlife phenomenon: the period when recently born sea lion pups first enter the surf to practice swimming. The seasonal cycle begins in December with the arrival of adult male sea lions, followed by the females and the subsequent birth of the pups. By early March, these inexperienced pups begin developing their marine skills in front of the rookeries, presenting a window of vulnerability. While orca pods frequent the waters of Punta Norte throughout the year, their presence intensifies during these months as they capitalize on the naive prey. Regarding the optimal time for sightings, there is no single definitive window; while activity often increases in April, nature remains unpredictable. Sightings are subject to the strategic and elusive hunting patterns of these apex predators, and while we are positioned in the prime location, long periods of absence are possible at any point. Our commitment is to maximize field time during this fascinating window, acknowledging that in the wild, there are no guarantees.
GALLERY
Wildlife & landscapes
Need help planning?
Our team is ready to answer your questions and help you prepare for this unforgettable expedition.