Things To Do
in Puerto Deseado

Puerto Deseado is a windswept Patagonian port town where the Deseado River meets the Atlantic, creating a rugged coastal landscape. Its shores support penguin colonies, sea lions, and a working fishing fleet set against dramatic cliffs and gray-blue seas. The town serves as a gateway to wildlife cruises, estuary tours, and abundant seafood gastronomies.

Visitors can stroll historic docks, hike coastal trails, and soak in a frontier-town atmosphere with generous skies and open horizons.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious Argentine breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh croissants and coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the historic center, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Stop by the Museo de la Patagonia, where you can learn about the region's history and indigenous cultures.

afternoon
:

Visit the iconic Plaza de las Américas, where you can relax under the shade of trees and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Grab lunch at a traditional parrilla, tasting asado, a famous Argentine barbecue, while mingling with locals. In the afternoon, explore the nearby coastal pathways, taking in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged cliffs.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, feasting on fresh seafood caught daily. After dinner, stroll along the beach, listening to the calming waves and watching the stars emerge in the clear sky. Conclude your day by visiting a local bar for a taste of regional wines and perhaps some live music.

day 2
Birdwatching at Ría Deseado
morning
:

Begin your day early with a guided birdwatching tour at Ría Deseado, known for its diverse avian population. With binoculars in hand, observe species like the Magellanic cormorant and the elegant flamingos in their natural habitat. The tranquility of the estuary combined with the beauty of its wildlife makes for an unforgettable morning.

afternoon
:

After a picnic lunch by the water, continue your exploration with a boat tour, providing a closer look at the unique landscapes and potential sea lion sightings. The guides will share fascinating insights about the ecosystem and conservation efforts in the area. Capture stunning photographs as you navigate the winding estuary and marvel at the cliffs surrounding you.

evening
:

Return to Puerto Deseado to relax after an exhilarating day outdoors. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying the region's specialty, Patagonian lamb. Spend your evening unwinding at your accommodation, reflecting on the day's adventures.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$25-50
Coffee$2-4
🧭Taxi start/1 km within town$1-3
🍷Bottle of local wine$8-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Abundant wildlife and seafood, authentic Patagonian experience
  • Compact town with easy access to coastal landscapes and boat tours
  • Friendly locals and a relaxed pace of travel
  • Good value for money compared to more hours-distant Patagonia destinations
  • Remote location means limited services outside main town
  • Seasonal variability can affect tours and nightlife
  • Windy conditions and variable weather require flexible plans
  • Some attractions and amenities may have limited English-speaking staff
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
  • "Puede recomendarme un restaurante?" - Could you recommend a restaurant?
  • "Me gustaría una mesa para dos" - I would like a table for two
  • "¡Salud!" - Cheers!

Places to Visit in Puerto Deseado

Visit one of these nice places.

Isla Pingüino (Penguin Island)

A wildlife-rich island with penguin colonies; best photographed at dawn or dusk when birds are active and light is soft.

Muelle Viejo (Old Pier)

Historic dock with working boats; moody seascapes and reflections are ideal at sunrise or sunset.

Reserva Natural Cabo Blanco

Coastal cliffs, sea lions, seabirds, and rugged shoreline provide dramatic wildlife and landscape shots.

Faro de Puerto Deseado (Lighthouse)

Lighthouse viewpoints overlook the estuary and open sea, offering panoramic coastal photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Puerto Deseado

Patagonian cuisine in Puerto Deseado centers on fresh seafood, Antarctic-influenced dishes, and hearty beef and lamb specialties. Expect simple, robust flavors that celebrate the ocean and the region’s grazing lands. Seasonal fish, shellfish, and smoked products are common, with many eateries offering rustic Patagonian parrilla options.

Puerto Deseado Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Trucha Patagónica a la parrilla

Grilled Patagonian trout, usually served lightly seasoned with lemon, herbs, and olive oil; a freshwater specialty near the Deseado River.

Must-Try!

Ostras de Puerto Deseado

Fresh oysters from local farms, typically enjoyed on the half shell with lemon and a light dressing.

Cazuela de mariscos

Seafood stew with fish, squid, shellfish, and potatoes in a comforting Patagonian broth.

Asado Patagónico

Slow-grilled Patagonian lamb or beef, often shared as a social meal at parrillas.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Puerto Deseado

A hub for fresh seafood, local produce, cheeses, and regional specialties; great for tasting and picking up provisions.

Street food by the docks

Empanadas de pescado and other quick bites like choripán are common, especially in the warmer months.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region has a cool, ocean-influenced Patagonian climate with frequent winds. Summers are mild to cool, winters are cold and windy, and weather can change rapidly, so layers are essential year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite handshake or a kiss on the cheek among friends; greet with buenos días or buenas tardes and use polite forms of address.

Conversation

Friendly chatting about travel, food, and family is common; avoid sensitive topics with strangers.

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; follow the guidelines above.

Wildlife etiquette

Maintain a respectful distance from wildlife; do not feed or touch animals.

Safety Guide

Safety

General travel safety is good in town, but visitors should stay aware of ocean conditions, weather changes, and gaps in remote areas. Avoid wandering far offshore without a guide, and use reputable operators for wildlife tours. Carry a map, have travel insurance, and keep valuables secure near the harbor and docks.

Tipping in Puerto Deseado

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a tip of about 10% is common if service is not included. You may round up the bill at bars or leave modest extra for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash (ARS) is widely accepted; many places also take credit/debit cards. Some rural or smaller venues may be cash-only or have limited card terminals. ATMs are available in town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December–February)

Long daylight hours, cool to mild temperatures, and breezes from the sea; ideal for boat trips and wildlife viewing, though expect occasional strong gusts.

Autumn (March–May)

Cooler days, decreasing crowds, and windy conditions; great for coastal hikes and photography with golden light at dusk.

Winter (June–August)

Cold, windy, and often rainy; some tours demand flexible plans; layer up and be prepared for rough seas.

Spring (September–November)

Birds returning, moderate temperatures, and blooming coastlines; good for wildlife watching and hikes.

Nightlife Guide

Puerto Deseado at Night

Puerto Deseado’s nightlife is relaxed and small-scale, centered on waterfront bars and pubs. In peak season, occasional live music or small performances appear, but most evenings are quiet and locals-friendly rather than tourist-heavy.

Hiking in Puerto Deseado

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cabo Blanco Coastal Trail

Rugged coastal path offering cliff views, sea lions, and seabird colonies; best with a guided or well-prepared hike.

Faro Trail to the Lighthouse

Moderate hike to the lighthouse overlooking the estuary; rewarding sunset perspectives.

Isla Pingüino Peninsula Walk

Seasonal coastal walk near penguin habitats; check access windows and guided-tour requirements.

Airports

How to reach Puerto Deseado by plane.

Puerto Deseado Airport

Small regional airport serving domestic flights and occasional charters; check seasonal schedules in advance.

Comodoro Rivadavia Airport

Larger regional hub with connections to Buenos Aires and other major cities; serves as a common link for longer trips.

El Calafate Airport

Major Patagonia gateway with regular flights to Buenos Aires and other destinations; practical for broader Patagonia itineraries.

Rio Gallegos Airport

Regional airport offering connections to southern Patagonia and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center and harbor area are small and walkable, with most sights reachable on foot. Short distances make strolling pleasant, but some coastal and island hikes require transport or guided tours. Parking is generally available near the waterfront, and walking along the docks provides great views of the fishing fleet.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

A mix of Patagonian locals, fishing families, and residents from other parts of Argentina; many are bilingual in Spanish and basic English in tourist-service roles.

Seasonal workers

Seasonal influxes for fishing, tourism, and service industries, contributing to a dynamic town rhythm in peak months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport in Argentina, widely played and followed in Puerto Deseado.

Fishing

A core activity for locals and visitors, with both recreational and sport fishing along the coast and estuary.

Kayaking

Popular for coastal and estuary exploration, with opportunities to observe wildlife up close.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light in Puerto Deseado, with most movement concentrated along the waterfront and main streets. Road travel to surrounding areas is feasible but can include gravel sections; boat and ferry trips may require scheduling. Public transportation is limited—taxis and private tours are common for visitors.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Deseado.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Seafood-centric area; options include salads, grilled vegetables, pastas, and vegetable-based dishes. Communicate dietary needs and ask for vegetable-forward preparations when available.

Gluten-free

Many seafood dishes are naturally gluten-free; avoid breaded items and sauces containing gluten; request gluten-free options when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Local healthcare includes a hospital and regional clinics; for serious emergencies or specialized care, travel to larger facilities in nearby cities is common. Travel insurance with international coverage is advisable for visitors, and bring any required medications with you.

Discover Argentina

Read more in our Argentina 2025 Travel Guide.

Argentina Travel Guide