Nestled between the vast steppe and the Atlantic Ocean, Camarones and Cabo Dos Bahías offer one of the most overlooked coastal treasures in Argentine Patagonia. This remote stretch of shoreline, accessible via the scenic Provincial Route 1, delivers unforgettable encounters with marine wildlife, untouched landscapes, and the quiet charm of a fishing village lost in time.
Camarones: Gateway to the Wild Atlantic
The small village of Camarones sits halfway between Trelew and Comodoro Rivadavia. Its name—meaning “shrimp” in Spanish—hints at its origins as a fishing port. Today, Camarones maintains its rustic authenticity while serving as a base for exploring the region’s natural wonders.
Despite its size, the town surprises visitors with:
- A peaceful coastline perfect for birdwatching and coastal walks
- A small but charming museum dedicated to Juan Domingo Perón, who spent part of his childhood here
- Access to nearby penguin colonies and marine reserves
Cabo Dos Bahías: A Sanctuary for Penguins and More
Located within the Cabo Dos Bahías Provincial Reserve, just 28 km (17 mi) south of Camarones via a gravel road, this rugged promontory is home to one of the largest Magellanic penguin colonies in Patagonia.
Visitors walking along the marked trails can get remarkably close to:
- Magellanic penguins (from September to April)
- Guanacos roaming the coastal hills
- Cormorants, giant petrels, and skuas nesting on cliffside ledges
- Expansive views of the South Atlantic crashing against volcanic rock formations
Wildlife Highlights
- Commerson’s dolphins (a.k.a. “panda dolphins”), playful and easily spotted from the harbor
- Rockhopper penguins at Isla Pingüino—one of the few accessible places to see them in Argentina
- Patagonian sea lions basking along the rocky shores
- Birdlife galore: steamer ducks, oystercatchers, and sheathbills
Road Trip Tip: Provincial Route 1 – Patagonia’s Forgotten Coastal Road
Puerto Deseado is a fantastic destination for those traveling by road along Patagonia’s Atlantic coast, especially for those looking to get off the beaten path.
The Route
Provincial Route 1 (RP1) is an unpaved coastal road that runs parallel to Ruta Nacional 3, connecting a string of hidden Patagonian gems between Trelew and Comodoro Rivadavia.
- Stretch: ~300 km (185 mi) of scenic gravel road
- Highlights: Wild beaches, cliffs, estuaries, and very little traffic
- Road condition: Rough in sections, high-clearance vehicles recommended
How to Connect
- Northbound: Combine with Punta Tombo (penguin reserve) and Rawson for a wildlife-rich itinerary
- Southbound: Connect with Puerto Deseado and Bosques Petrificados National Park
- Loop Option: Form a circular route by taking RP1 one way and returning via the paved Ruta Nacional 3
Best Time to Visit
- Spring and early summer (Oct–Dec) for peak wildlife activity and manageable road conditions
We’re a local tour operator based in Buenos Aires, which offers custom tours in Patagonia and other regions of Argentina and Chile. We invite you to contact us, and start planning your next incredible journey to South America!
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