Valdes Peninsula, Nature reserve peninsula in Atlantic Patagonia, Argentina.
Valdes Peninsula is a nature reserve on the Atlantic coast in Chubut Province, stretching over thousands of square kilometers with steppes and cliffs. The landscape features rolling terrain with exposed rock formations and open grasslands that slope toward the ocean.
The area received World Heritage Site status in 1999 for its marine ecosystem and role as a breeding ground for whales. This recognition honored the biological importance of the waters and coasts as habitat for marine wildlife.
The surrounding region shows Welsh influences from settlers who arrived in the 1860s, with tea rooms and Welsh-speaking communities in nearby towns. You can notice this cultural blend in local architecture and the way people preserve their traditions.
The peninsula is reachable via airports in Trelew and Puerto Madryn, though travel on unpaved roads requires a four-wheel drive vehicle. Visitors should prepare for changing weather conditions and allow plenty of time for exploring.
Southern right whales gather in the waters between May and December, while orcas use a specific hunting technique by swimming up onto the beach. This unusual behavior by the orcas is rare and draws observers from around the world.
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