Things To Do
in Trelew
Trelew is a Patagonian city in Chubut Province that serves as a practical gateway to both Atlantic coastline and desert landscapes. It blends Welsh heritage with Argentine Patagonian culture, creating a sturdy, friendly atmosphere and a compact urban core. The city hosts the renowned Museo Paleontológico Egidio Feruglio, vibrant markets, and easy access to wildlife mecca like Punta Tombo and Península Valdés.
With windswept plains, sea breeze, and hearty regional cuisine, Trelew is a convenient base for Patagonian adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, enjoying freshly baked pastries and strong Argentine coffee. Afterward, stroll through the picturesque streets of Trelew's historic center, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant murals. Don't forget to visit the Plaza Independencia, a perfect spot for people-watching and soaking in the local atmosphere.
Head to the Museo Paleontológico Egidio Feruglio, where you can marvel at dinosaur fossils and learn about the region's prehistoric past. After immersing yourself in history, grab a hearty lunch at a traditional parrilla, sampling local grilled meats. Spend the afternoon visiting artisan shops, where you can find unique handcrafted souvenirs and regional crafts.
As the sun sets, choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, savoring local specialties such as Patagonian lamb or fresh seafood. Enjoy a glass of Malbec while taking in the charming ambiance of the town. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the riverbank, enjoying the peacefulness of the night.
Embark on an early morning drive to Puerto Madryn, located just a short distance from Trelew, to catch a glimpse of the majestic southern right whales. Join a guided boat tour and enjoy the stunning views of the coast as you search for these magnificent creatures. The excitement builds as you spot whales breaching and swimming close to your boat.
After your thrilling whale watching experience, enjoy a seafood lunch at a seaside restaurant, indulging in fresh catches of the day. Spend the afternoon exploring the coastal city, visiting the Ecocentro to learn about marine life and the conservation efforts in the area. Take a stroll along the beach to relax and soak in the beautiful Patagonian scenery.
Return to Trelew and unwind at your accommodation, reflecting on the incredible wildlife encounters. For dinner, choose a local pizzeria where you can enjoy a delicious Argentine-style pizza with a variety of toppings. Wrap up the day with a walk through the town, experiencing the night life and perhaps stopping for gelato.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $60-120 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $5-15 |
| 🥩Dinner for two (mid-range) | $25-45 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to world-class wildlife reserves and penguin colonies
- Welsh-Patagonian cultural heritage and welcoming locals
- Strong paleontology museum and educational experiences
- Walkable city center with easy access to day trips
- Delicious Patagonian cuisine, especially seafood and lamb
- Windy conditions can be persistent and strong
- Nightlife and entertainment options are more limited than in larger cities
- Some rural day trips require long drives
- Seasonal wildlife experiences depend on timing
- Public transportation options can be less frequent outside peak season
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hi, how are you?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quisiera... por favor" - I would like... please
Places to Visit in Trelew
Visit one of these nice places.
Distinctive modern architecture and dinosaur-inspired exterior lines provide striking photos, especially at dusk.
Open square with monuments, palm trees, and colorful storefronts—great for street photography and portraits.
Scenic riverfront views, calm reflections, and birds, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Vibrant murals and lively sidewalk scenes offer colorful, candid photo opportunities.
Food in Trelew
Trelew Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-roasted Patagonian lamb cooked over open flames, a iconic regional specialty.
Must-Try!
Hake cooked in a tomato-onion sauce with peppers, a beloved coastal fish dish.
Baked or fried pastry pockets filled with beef, onions, and spices (vegetarian fillings available by request).
King crab prepared in various styles, frequently featured in seafood-focused menus during fishing seasons.
Traditional potato-based dishes or corn-based fillings that appear as sides or vegetarian options.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A central market area with fish stalls, butchers, and prepared foods—great for tasting local selections and buying ingredients.
Choripán, empanadas, and other quick bites are commonly available at stalls and casual eateries around the city center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; in casual settings, a light kiss on the cheek may occur among friends. Use polite phrases like 'por favor' and 'gracias' and be patient with casual conversation pacing.
Spanish is the primary language; many locals appreciate basic Spanish phrases. Ask before photographing people, and be respectful of personal space and quiet moments in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Trelew
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10% tip is common if service is not included. Rounding up the bill is also appreciated. Small gratuities for hotel staff and taxi drivers are customary.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities; carry some cash in Argentine pesos for smaller shops and markets. ATMs are common in Trelew and nearby towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with sea breezes and extended daylight; winds can still be strong. Pack layered clothing and sun protection; coastal trips are popular but can be breezy.
Milder temperatures with fresher evenings; shoulder-season crowds and good conditions for walking tours and outdoor photography.
Cool to cold and windy, with relatively dry air; some days require warm layers and windproof outerwear; indoor museum visits are ideal on rough days.
Variable weather with wind; flowers and green landscapes begin to emerge; good for outdoor activities and wildlife watching along the coast.
Trelew at Night
Hiking in Trelew
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy coastal trails near the penguin colony with opportunities for seabird photography and scenic viewpoints.
Coastal reserve with short trails and excellent wildlife viewing along the Atlantic shoreline.
Gentle hillside trails offering panoramic views of Trelew and the surrounding steppe.
Airports
How to reach Trelew by plane.
Main regional airport with domestic connections to Buenos Aires and other Patagonian hubs; serves as a primary gateway to the region.
Nearby coastal airport offering regional flights; convenient for visits to Península Valdés and whale watching tours.
Larger regional airport in the south; serves longer domestic routes and connects to Trelew via road or bus trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A notable historical influence in the area, reflected in cultural traditions and regional cuisine.
Residents from Chubut Province and surrounding regions, including Mapuche communities in the broader Patagonia area.
Visitors drawn to wildlife reserves, beaches, and paleontology, plus temporary workers in tourism and fishing sectors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport nationwide, with local clubs and casual play throughout the city.
Common club sports in Patagonia, with community leagues and youth programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Trelew.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find empanadas with cheese and vegetables, pasta, salads, and roasted vegetables; ask for vegetable-forward dishes or modifications at most restaurants.