Madryn

Puerto Madryn is a city in the Chubut Province of Argentina, located on the coast of Golfo Nuevo in Patagonia. It lies along the Atlantic Ocean and serves as the gateway to the nearby Península Valdés, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its marine wildlife, including southern right whales, sea lions, elephant seals, and penguins. The city has a population in the tens of thousands to around 100,000 inhabitants and functions as a service, fishing, and tourism hub for the region.

History and development in Puerto Madryn began in the late 19th century, with the establishment of a port in 1886 to support the settlement and economic development of Patagonia. The port facilitated fishing and export activities and contributed to the growth of nearby communities in the Valdés area. Over time, the town diversified from its initial maritime role to become a center for tourism and regional commerce.

Economy and tourism in modern Puerto Madryn are heavily oriented toward ecotourism and wildlife experiences. Whale watching is a major draw during the austral winter months, and visitors also come for visits to nearby wildlife colonies and coastal activities. The city serves as a base for excursions to Península Valdés and to other coastal attractions in southern Patagonia.

Climate in the area is cool and windy with a semi-arid character, featuring mild summers and cool winters. The surrounding region reflects a Patagonian landscape, with cultural influences from Welsh-Argentine communities in the broader Trelew–Gaiman area.