Valdes Peninsula

We kept heading north after crossing the Magellan Straits. The temperature has already improved with 40 in the morning but warming to the 50’s. After so many frigid days this is very welcome. We stayed in the city of Rio Gallegas to have an oil change and a much needed wash job. We are retracing our route and fuel availability is still a concern. There is an empty landscape between filling stations so we top off every chance we get. The town of Caleta Olivia was welcome after driving many miles of nothing. There are many sheep, rheas, guanocos, and jack rabbits but few people.

We camped overlooking the Atlantic and the winds were strong and gusty during the night. Caution was advised. As we drove inland the winds lessened. We were headed to the Valdes Peninsula off the Atlantic coast and the San Jose Gulf. This is a national park. The area is known for whale watching, elephant seals and penguins. There is a real campground with electricity. After a long day we had to do some fixing and cleaning. The step had quick working and we “ kinda” got stuck in the sand as we found our spot to stay. A big truck made short work of pulling us out and we made some new friends.

The next morning we walked to the beach where they launch the boats to go whale watching. After donning lifejackets we and 20 others boarded a boat that was still on the beach in a wheeled cradle with a long tongue. A 4 wheel drive tractor then shoved boat and cradle into the ocean. A very efficient operation.

Within 15 minutes we were at the feeding grounds. We have been on several whale watching tours but this was by far the best. We saw at least 100 whales and their babies. Most of them were very close to the boat. You could feel and hear the spray when they blowed. We stayed in the area about 45 minutes and it was wonderful.

Chores were done that evening. About 7P.M. we decided to walk to the small town for dinner. This is a tourist town and a base for hikers and tourist buses. We knew that they don’t start serving dinner in this country till late but we found out it was later than we thought. After walking a mile or more and finding that the restaurants do not open till 8P.M. we headed back to our motorhome. The last minute meal was a good one.

The next morning we drove a 165mile loop around the Peninsula. There were overlooks to see the elephant seals and the penguins were up close and personal.

We enjoyed our respite in the national park. We have met some nice folks and have seen more motorhomes here than anywhere else. Now we head north toward Buenos Aries. The temperature continues to rise.

Gerry and Bill