Peninsula Valdes is a true marine reserve for penguins, dolphins, whales, seals, sea lions, and elephant seals. The southern elephant seals that reside on the island belong to the family of true seals and are the largest among all pinnipeds. Only here you can see the southern elephant seal colony and nowhere else in the world.
From August to March more than 20,000 of these mammals come to Peninsula Valdes for mating, birthing, and molting. They make extremely loud roaring sounds during the mating season.
At park Punta Delgada you can find more information about these large amazing animals.
Practical info
When is the ideal season to see Southern Elephant Seals in Peninsula Valdes?
The Southern Elephant Seals can be best seen in Peninsula Valdes, Argentina from August to March. The peak season covers more than 20,000 elephant seals that come to the Peninsula for birthing, molting, and mating. Visiting the Peninsula at different times of the year affords unique sightings and experiences with the largest number of newborns between July and August followed by the males displaying their aggressiveness in December. Show more
Where is the world's only Southern Elephant Seal colony located?
The only colony of Southern Elephant Seals in the world is found at Peninsula Valdes in Argentina's Patagonia region. It is a marine reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Valdes Peninsula is an important sanctuary for varied marine life that includes whales, dolphins, sea lions, seals, penguins, and elephant seals which are known for their remarkable size and unique features. Show more
How loud can the mating calls of Southern Elephant Seals get?
Male Southern Elephant Seals emit loud mating calls, which can be heard from up to a mile away. The sound can be described as a low-pitched 'elephant' roar or similar to a truck's engine. Vocalization is used to summon a partner and establish territory, thus ensuring the females' mating willingness while intimidating rival males. Show more
When is the birthing season for Southern Elephant Seals in Peninsula Valdes?
The Southern Elephant Seals' birthing season typically occurs during the winter months of July and August in Peninsula Valdes. Female elephant seals refrain from feeding for months while in the water, venturing to land only to mate, nurse, and birth their pups. They carry their young for around 11 months, making the birthing period critical for the colony's growth and survival. Show more
What other sea creatures can be found in Peninsula Valdes besides Southern Elephant Seals?
Peninsula Valdes in Argentina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a natural marine reserve for an abundance of marine creatures such as dolphins, whales, sea lions, seals, elephant seals, and penguins. The area is known for the largest Southern Right Whale population globally, Orcas or Killer Whales, and a diverse range of birdlife. The Peninsula is one of the ultimate destinations for tourists interested in encountering vibrant marine fauna. Show more
