Things To Do
in Puerto Deseado
Puerto Deseado is a picturesque port town located on the coast of Patagonia in Argentina. It is known for its rugged landscape, towering cliffs, and diverse wildlife. The town is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts interested in activities such as hiking, bird watching, and fishing.
Puerto Deseado also has a rich maritime history, with opportunities to explore shipwrecks and historic sites.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walk along the picturesque coastline, taking in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Stop by local artisan shops for unique souvenirs.
Visit the nearby Punta Delgada lighthouse and enjoy the panoramic views of the sea. Have lunch at a cozy seaside restaurant, sampling fresh seafood dishes.
Relax at a local café, sipping on Argentinean mate while watching the sunset over the ocean. Consider trying a traditional Argentine barbecue for dinner.
Join a guided tour to observe the diverse wildlife in the area, including seals and penguins. Bring binoculars to fully enjoy the experience.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in a designated area, surrounded by nature. Keep your eyes peeled for birds and other wildlife while you eat.
Return to town and enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant. Share your wildlife experiences with fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes, including the nearby Patagonian coast.
- Rich in wildlife, making it a great spot for bird watching and marine life observation.
- A peaceful and less crowded environment compared to larger cities.
- Strong sense of community and local culture.
- Growing tourism opportunities, especially for eco-tourism.
- Limited access to some modern amenities and services.
- Harsh weather conditions, particularly in winter.
- Economic challenges and limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Distance from major urban centers, which can make travel more complex.
- Potential for isolation due to its remote location.
Best Activities in Puerto Deseado
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the breathtaking sight of southern right whales off the coast of Puerto Deseado, particularly during their migration season.
Explore the scenic estuary of Puerto Deseado by kayak, offering a unique perspective of the local wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Visit Ría Deseado, a vital wetland area, to observe a wide variety of bird species, including Magellanic penguins and various seabirds.
Take advantage of the numerous hiking trails around Puerto Deseado, which provide stunning views and an opportunity to explore the unique Patagonian landscape.
Enjoy fishing in the local waters, where you can catch species like sea bass and other coastal fish, perfect for both amateur and experienced anglers.
Explore the beautiful Deseado River, where visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, kayaking, and taking in the serene natural environment.
Take a guided tour to learn about the rich history of Puerto Deseado, including its indigenous heritage and early colonial times.
Tours
Uncover the best of Puerto Deseado with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Puerto Deseado
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular spot offering panoramic views of the harbor and the surrounding landscape. Ideal for sunset photography.
A beautiful natural bay with rocky cliffs and crystal-clear waters, perfect for capturing stunning seascapes.
An old ranch area that provides a unique backdrop with its historical buildings and picturesque countryside.
A unique estuarine environment where photographers can capture diverse wildlife and the stunning interplay of light and water.
A scenic cape offering breathtaking ocean views and opportunities to photograph local bird species nesting on the cliffs.
This reserve provides breathtaking natural scenery, including mountains and forests, offering stunning photo opportunities.
Food in Puerto Deseado
Puerto Deseado Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Centolla, or King Crab, is a popular local delicacy known for its sweet, delicate flavor. It can be found at various seafood restaurants and markets in Puerto Deseado, such as La Pescaderia de Juan.
Must-Try!
Cordero Patagónico is a traditional dish of slow-roasted Patagonian lamb, seasoned with local herbs and spices. It is a must-try at restaurants like El Viejo Marino.
Tarta Frita is a fried bread dough that is a popular street snack in Puerto Deseado. It is often enjoyed with a sprinkle of sugar and can be found at local food stands.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Puerto Deseado better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Feria Franca is a popular weekend market where visitors can explore a variety of local food stalls offering fresh seafood, empanadas, and traditional Argentine snacks like choripán.
Along the Costanera, visitors can find numerous food stands offering freshly prepared seafood dishes, including grilled fish and seafood empanadas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Puerto Deseado, it is common to greet people with a friendly handshake or a kiss on the cheek, especially among friends and family. Always make eye contact and smile when greeting someone to convey warmth and respect.
When dining in Puerto Deseado, it is polite to wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating. Additionally, keeping your hands on the table (but not your elbows) during the meal is considered proper etiquette.
Puerto Deseado has a rich cultural heritage, so it's important to show appreciation for local customs and traditions. This includes being respectful during local festivals and celebrations, and showing interest in the history and stories of the area.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Puerto Deseado with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Puerto Deseado
Ensure a smooth experience
In Puerto Deseado, tipping practices generally follow the customs observed throughout Argentina. It is common to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is satisfactory. Tipping is also seen in other service-oriented establishments such as hotels and taxis, where rounding up the fare or leaving a small additional amount is appreciated but not mandatory.
Payment practices in Puerto Deseado vary, with both cash and card payments being accepted. Many businesses, especially restaurants and stores, typically prefer cash transactions, but larger establishments may accept credit or debit cards. It's advisable for visitors to carry cash, particularly when visiting smaller local shops or markets that might not have card facilities.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Puerto Deseado.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summer is warm in Puerto Deseado, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F). This is the best time for outdoor activities such as fishing, bird watching, and exploring the natural parks. The wildlife is vibrant, and you can expect to see an array of seabirds and marine life.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures, averaging between 10°C and 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The scenery changes with beautiful autumn colors. It's a good time for photography, and the trails are less crowded, making it ideal for hiking. Wildlife is still abundant as animals prepare for the winter.
Winter is cold, with temperatures often dropping to between 0°C and 10°C (32°F to 50°F). While it's not the ideal time for typical outdoor activities, visitors can expect a quiet and serene atmosphere. It's a good time for those looking to escape the heat and enjoy the tranquility of the region, but be aware of cold weather and possible snow.
Spring sees a rise in temperatures from 5°C to 18°C (41°F to 64°F) and marks the return of vibrant wildlife. Flowers bloom and migratory birds return, making it a picturesque time to visit. It's great for nature walks and wildlife observation, as animals become more active after winter.
Puerto Deseado at Night
Hiking in Puerto Deseado
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike featuring stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscapes, with opportunities to observe local wildlife.
A coastal trail that offers a unique blend of beach walks and rocky terrains, ideal for spotting sea lions and various bird species.
A picturesque hiking area that leads to breathtaking cliffs and panoramic ocean views, perfect for photography and nature lovers.
Located a bit further from Puerto Deseado, this national park offers various hiking trails through diverse ecosystems, including forests and coastal areas.
Known for its rugged coastline and rich biodiversity, this hiking spot provides trails that can lead to secluded beaches and historical sites.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Puerto Deseado through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Puerto Deseado by plane.
Located approximately 180 kilometers from Puerto Deseado, this is the nearest major international airport, serving various domestic and international flights.
Situated around 390 kilometers from Puerto Deseado, this airport primarily serves tourists heading to Los Glaciares National Park and offers some international connections.
Approximately 660 kilometers away from Puerto Deseado, this is the southernmost international airport in the world and provides flights to various destinations, including international routes.
Located about 570 kilometers from Puerto Deseado, this airport handles some international flights and connects to major cities in Argentina.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population, including individuals of Spanish and indigenous descent.
Small groups of indigenous communities that may include the Tehuelche and Mapuche.
Descendants of early 20th-century European immigrants, particularly from Italy and Germany.
Includes other minor populations such as African descendants and recent immigrants from different countries.
The Soul of Puerto Deseado
Discover the essence of Puerto Deseado through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Puerto Deseado, with local teams competing in regional leagues and a passionate fan base.
Rugby has a growing following, with local clubs forming and participating in regional competitions.
Basketball is played in schools and community centers, with local tournaments attracting young athletes.
Field hockey has gained popularity among youth, with clubs forming to promote the sport.
Whether sport or leisure, fishing is a common activity and social event among the locals, given the proximity to the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Deseado.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Puerto Deseado's cuisine heavily features seafood and meats, many restaurants and cafes offer delicious vegetarian dishes, including fresh salads, vegetable empanadas, and savory tarts.
Vegan options are available at select establishments, with offerings such as vegetable stir-fries, quinoa salads, and plant-based sandwiches. Cafés often serve dairy-free milk alternatives for coffee.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy a range of gluten-free dishes, including grilled fish, seafood paella, and corn-based empanadas. Many restaurants in Puerto Deseado are accommodating to gluten-free dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Puerto Deseado with these cultural adventures.