Situated snugly in a well-protected bay of the Golfo Nuevo, Puerto Madryn is the natural gateway to the starkly beautiful plains of Patagonia. This vast area covers one third of the country but is occupied by less than four percent of the population. Patagonia characteristically encompasses three different regions: a vast and windy, treeless plateau; the Atlantic coast; and the southern part with its national parks, awesome mountain ranges, glaciers and fjords.
In northern Patagonia, in Chubut Province, is Argentina's Welsh community, which began when a group of adventurous Welsh immigrants settled in the area around Puerto Madryn in 1886. The town took its name from Love Parry, Baron of Madryn. Although today the town appears unmistakably Argentine, Welsh customs, names and even some of the language have survived.
Puerto Madryn has experienced rapid development thanks to Argentina's first aluminum plant established here. Lately it has also become a popular tourist center because of its excellent diving and water sports opportunities, attracting visitors from all over Argentina and other parts of South America. Still, its major draw is the proximity to such important wildlife reserves as Punta Tombo and the Valdes Peninsula. Scores of visitors endure long drives to visit these amazing nature reserves to see Magellanic penguins, elephant seals, sea lions and whales.
In town, a casino and several restaurants known for good seafood provide visitors with basic diversions. In addition, there is the Museum of Natural Sciences and Oceanography with exhibits portraying the remarkable wildlife in Chubut Province. Main street shops offer a limited selection of leather goods, water sports equipment and items made by the Patagonian Indians. |
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| The ship is scheduled to dock at the Muelle Nuevo "Luis Piedra Buena," about one mile from town. Taxis are generally available at the pier and charge flat rates to certain destinations. Trips to one of the wildlife reserves have to be negotiated. There are few English-speaking drivers. If hiring a taxi, be sure to check its condition carefully. Roads outside of town are rugged and isolated. |
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| Puerto Madryn's main street, Julio Roca, has a variety of shops selling leather articles, T-shirts, diving equipment and souvenirs of Patagonia and its wildlife. Some shops close for lunch. The local currency is the peso. |
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| Your best choice here is seafood. Restaurants are more rustic than elegant. Also popular are confiterias, some of them offering Welsh afternoon tea. |
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Museum of Natural Sciences and Oceanography
Housed in the historic Chalet Pujol, at Domec Garcia and Menendez Streets, the museum features displays of Patagonian flora and fauna, both marine and terrestrial. Enjoy the panoramic view from the loft.
Monument of the Mujer Galesa
Located on the Costanera, this unique monument of a Welsh woman acknowledges the contributions of Welsh immigrant women to the regional heritage and culture.
Private arrangements in this port may be limited; they are subject to the availability of English-speaking guides. |
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