EXPERIENCES

We visit a few Welsh settlement located in Rio Chubut Valley. Trelew was named after Lewis Jones, who was a pioneer in the Welsh settlement that started in 1865. Gaiman is a small village with less than 10,000 inhabitants who work mainly in farming activities. Gaiman's main attraction stands on both its high number of typical Welsh buildings and the historic and cultural events that take place in the village every year. Dolavon is also a small village, founded in 1915 and is known as the 'village of the waterwheels'. We also visit Rawson, the capital of the province of Chubut, and enjoy a traditional Welsh tea at Hosteria TyGyn.

Departure from Puerto Madryn; after traveling 70 km through Patagonian steppe, we reach the southern end of the mouth of the Golfo Nuevo where Punta Ninfas lighthouse is located, a valuable reference for navigators entering this area. On the beaches that surround Punta Ninfas we can see breeding groups of elephants and seals. We then continue to El Pedral, an authentic Patagonian estancia built at the beginning of the 20th century. The materials and furniture were brought from Europe by boat and landed on the coasts of the estancia itself. Then we went to the Magellan penguin colony located on El Pedral seashore, a short distance from the house. A guided tour between their nests allows us to better know these curious animals. In summer we recommend a cap and sunglasses, as well as to carry a bottle of water. At noon, we have lunch in the estancia: grilled lamb with a variety of salads, dessert and coffee (includes drinks and wine). In the afternoon you can enjoy the pool and the pétanque court, as well as take walks around the property or have a tea/coffee before returning back our hotel.

Very early in the morning we depart from the meeting point, with a 50 km route to the south of Punta Arenas. The Kayak with Whales begins with a navigation to the landing point with the kayaks, in order to be able to paddle alongside the humpback whales, present in this place during the season. Likewise, within the Francisco Coloane marine park, we can see different animals such as sea lions, petrels, cormorants and southern dolphins, among others. All within the majestic Patagonian landscape with mountains, glaciers and forests... At the end, we will begin the return trip to Punta Arenas, where the excursion ends.