Argentina Wildlife Tours
Custom-Made Experiences by Locals
Nature & Wildlife Experiences in Argentina
We are a local travel agency based in Argentina, specializing in personalized journeys across the country and the region, including parts of Chile and neighboring countries. Argentina is home to some of South America's most remarkable wildlife destinations, from the whale and penguin colonies of Península Valdés to the rich ecosystems of the Iberá Wetlands, where capybaras, caimans, marsh deer, monkeys, and hundreds of bird species thrive. Patagonia is also home to iconic wildlife such as pumas, guanacos, condors, elephant seals, dolphins, and orcas. In this section, you'll find suggested wildlife itineraries and travel ideas that can be customized to match your interests, travel style, and preferred wildlife experiences.
Looking specifically for Patagonia? Check out our Patagonia Wildlife Tours.
Trips to Inspire You
Patagonia Wildlife SafariPeninsula Valdés, Puerto Madryn, El Calafate, Torres del Paine National Park & Puerto Natales
Wildlife: Peninsula Valdes, the Wetlands & Iguazu FallsBuenos Aires, Peninsula Valdés, Iberá Wetlands, Iguazú Falls
Misiones province & Ibera Wetlands- Wildlife & Nature tourMisiones, Iberá Wetlands, Iguazú Falls, Atlantic Forest
Patagonia Penguins TourPuerto Deseado, Peninsula Valdés, Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego
Argentina Herping ExpeditionBuenos Aires, Iguazú Falls, Puerto Iguazú, Misiones, San Sebastián de la Selva, Iberá Wetlands, Posadas
Let's start planning your personalized experience
Beyond BA Latam is a local travel company based in Argentina, specializing in tailor-made journeys across Argentina, Chile, and Antarctica. Our knowledgeable team designs trips around your interests and travel style, helping you experience the region in a more enjoyable way.
What kinds of animals live in Argentina?
Argentina is home to numerous animal species. Its vast territory and the different environments and climates that the country offers allow for a biodiversity that is uncommonly seen in other parts of the world. Some of the most recognizable animal species (there are many others) that inhabit the Argentine territory (and also neighboring countries) are:
Puma (Puma concolor)
Also known as the mountain lion, this feline can be found throughout most of the Argentine territory; however, it is rarely seen. It is the main predator of Andean Patagonia, and its main prey is the guanaco. It can also be found in Chile and other areas of the American continent.
Southern Right Whale
This sociable whale species chooses the quiet waters of the Península Valdés gulfs, in the Chubut Province, to reproduce and raise its calves. You will have the chance to see these amazing animals from June to December.
Magellanic Penguin
The Magellanic Penguin is probably one of the most lovable and popular inhabitants of Patagonia. It can be found in various points along the Patagonian coast (both in Argentina and Chile). Its main populations are found in the Chubut Province. They are usually present from September to March. There are also other species such as King, Gentoo, and Rockhopper penguins.
Condor
The Condor is the master and lord of the Andean skies (throughout much of South America). It is one of the largest flying birds on the planet. There are several viewpoints throughout Patagonia and the Cuyo region where it is possible to spot them.
Guanaco
This camelid inhabits large areas of western Argentina, but it is especially common in Patagonia. It is one of the few mammals that can drink salt water without any problem. It also lives in Chile.
Jaguar
Also known as the Yaguareté, the Jaguar is the largest feline in the Americas.
Even though it was hunted to near extinction, the population of this amazing predator is slowly recovering. It can be seen in the northeast of the country. However, the best place to spot it is Brazil.
Orca (Killer Whale)
The largest member of the oceanic dolphins chooses the beaches of Península Valdés to feed on sea lion pups. They use one of the most impressive hunting practices in the world: intentional stranding. It consists of deliberately beaching themselves while waiting for their prey to enter the water. They also live in many other parts of South America and the world.
Huemul
The Huemul, or Southern Andean Deer, is an endangered mammal belonging to the Cervidae family that lives in the Andes. It is the southernmost deer on the planet. During the 20th century, its population was drastically reduced by humans. Today, of the thousands that once lived throughout Patagonia, fewer than 1,000 remain. It is also very popular in Chile.
The Marsh Deer
It is the largest cervid in South America, reaching 2 m in length and 1.20 m in height at the withers. Formerly distributed throughout much of the subtropical regions of the continent, today it survives in small isolated populations. In Argentina, it is possible to see them mainly in the Iberá Wetlands.
Choique
The Patagonian Choique is a large flightless bird that can be seen throughout the Patagonian steppe. Outside the breeding season, they live in groups of 5 to 30 birds of different sexes and ages. Their diet is mainly based on shrubs, leaves, and herbs. It also lives in Chile.
Humboldt Penguin (Chile)
This species of penguin lives on the west coast of South America. In Chile, it can be found from the far north of the country to the Chiloé area. In recent years, its populations have been drastically reduced as a result of the scarcity of nesting sites, reduced food supply, predation by humans, and, above all, the impact of severe climatic phenomena such as El Niño. Chile is also home to other penguin species such as Magellanic and King penguins.
Flamingo
This elegant and graceful bird is characterized by its beautiful pink plumage. Flamingos acquire this unusual color by eating small invertebrates rich in carotenoids. In Chile, they can be particularly spotted in the Surire and Atacama salt flats, the National Reserve of El Yali, and on Chiloé Island. Likewise, flamingos can also be found in Argentina, in the high plateau and other regions.
Pudú
Pudú is a genus of cervids native to the Andean region of South America. They are the smallest members of the cervid family. Pudús range in size from 60 to 90 cm in length and 30 to 40 cm in height, and weigh between 7 and 10 kg. They live in forests and dense thickets, from Curicó to Aysén, and also on Chiloé Island, where they are more abundant. They can also be found in Argentine Patagonia.
Chilean Dolphin
Also known as the Black Dolphin, it is one of the smallest dolphins in the world. Its main characteristic is that its fins are rounded rather than pointed, unlike most dolphins. The dorsal fin has a rounded edge, and the pectoral fins are oval in shape. It reaches a maximum length of 165 cm and weighs an average of 57 kg. It can be seen along the Beagle Channel (Argentina and Chile) and other areas.
Maned Wolf
Also known as the Aguará Guazú, it is the tallest member of the canid family. It lives mainly in the Cerrado, the extensive savannah of Brazil. The Maned Wolf generally stays hidden during the day and hunts mainly at twilight, although it is also active at night. It is omnivorous and obtains most of its calories from fruits and tender roots; however, it is also a skilled hunter. It stalks small rodents, rabbits, hares, guinea pigs, lizards, frogs, and birds, often surprising its prey rather than chasing it over long distances. It reaches 107 cm in height at the withers and up to 125 cm in body length, plus about 45 cm of tail. It can weigh up to 36 kg. Its body structure resembles that of a fox, although its long legs give it a very distinctive appearance. It can also be found, although more rarely, in the Iberá Wetlands of Argentina.
The Blue Macaw (Brazil)
The Blue Macaw lives in the Brazilian jungles and is the largest macaw species. These birds grow to an average size of about 70 cm in length (and can reach 105 cm), with a wingspan of 120 to 140 cm and a weight of 1.5 to 1.7 kg. Its beak is the strongest among all birds and is essential for feeding on nuts and hard seeds. It also allows them to crack open coconuts, wood, and other plant matter.
Ring-tailed Coati
It is a mammal related to the raccoon, characterized by a long, somewhat pig-like snout and strong claws. Adults measure 41 to 67 cm from head to tail base, plus an additional 30 to 60 cm of tail. At the shoulders, they reach about 30 cm and weigh between 3 and 8 kg. Males can be twice the size of females and possess large, sharp canines. They have strong limbs for climbing and digging and are known for their intelligence. They live in groups of 10 to 20 individuals (sometimes more), while adult males are usually solitary. They can be easily spotted around the Iguazú Falls area.
Giant Anteater
It is the largest species of anteater. Its body measures approximately 120 to 200 cm in length, including the tail, and it can weigh between 25 and 40 kg. The snout is very elongated and conical. Its tongue can reach 75 cm in length and is covered with a sticky substance used to capture insects. In Brazil, it can be found throughout large areas of the Amazon, the Chaco, and the Atlantic Forest. It also lives in Argentina, especially in Corrientes, Formosa, and Chaco.
The Tapir
The Tapir is a mammal belonging to the order Perissodactyla, which also includes horses, zebras, and rhinoceroses. Depending on the species, it measures approximately two meters in length and can weigh between 150 and 300 kg. Its body is robust, with a broad head and neck adapted to moving through dense tropical forests. One of its most distinctive features is its flexible tubular snout, which helps it detect fruits, flowers, leaves, and other vegetation on which it feeds. Tapirs inhabit humid jungle regions close to water and are excellent swimmers and divers. They can be found in Argentina, Brazil, and other areas of South America.
Three-Banded Armadillo
It is a species of armadillo endemic to Brazil and one of only two armadillo species capable of rolling itself into a complete ball. Adults weigh approximately 1.5 kg and measure between 35 and 45 cm in length, excluding the 6 to 7 cm tail. It lives mainly in the Caatinga, a dry thorny scrubland of northeastern Brazil, and in the eastern part of the Cerrado.
Animals in Antarctica
The Antarctic Peninsula also offers an amazing variety of ocean wildlife experiences, including many penguin species (from Emperor to Gentoo), Minke Whales, Humpback Whales, Killer Whales, Antarctic Fur Seals, Leopard Seals, Elephant Seals, Blue-eyed Shags, Antarctic Petrels, and many other incredible animals.
Articles
Ecotourism in Argentina: Unforgettable Nature ExperiencesThe concept of Ecotourism in Argentina can be reflected in many different ways, but only a few destinations combine all the elements that define it. Among these sites, two areas stand out as role…
Ibera National Park: An Incredible Wildlife DestinationLocated in the geographical heart of Corrientes Province, Ibera National Park is one of the most impressive, yet still lesser-known, destinations to experience Argentina’s native flora and fauna.…
Whale Watching in Puerto Madryn: An Unforgettable Wildlife ExperienceA close encounter with nature in one of Patagonia’s most extraordinary wildlife destinations is right at your fingertips. That's the easiest way to describe Whale Watching in Puerto Madryn, but…
Peninsula ValdesPeninsula Valdés, located on the Patagonian Atlantic coast of Argentina in Chubut Province, is a natural sanctuary renowned for its diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. This UNESCO World…
Best Places to See Penguins in PatagoniaIf you're looking for the best places to see penguins in Patagonia, you'll find incredible wildlife experiences across both Argentina and Chile. Every year, generally from October through March or…
Orcas in Patagonia: Where and When to See Killer WhalesOrcas in Patagonia belong to a fascinating species: the killer whale is the largest member of the dolphin family. These remarkable marine mammals are found in oceans around the world, from the…
Pumas in Patagonia: An Incredible Wildlife Experience in Argentina & ChileOne of the most impressive yet elusive animals in Patagonia is the puma (Puma concolor). Also known as the mountain lion, it is one of the largest wild cats in the Americas and a powerful symbol of…
Patagonia Big FiveEven though there is no official definition of the Patagonia Big Five, many travelers and wildlife enthusiasts have embraced the idea of creating our own version of Africa’s famous safari concept.…
Jaguars in Argentina: A Wild Journey Through Their HabitatJaguars in Argentina are represented by the yaguareté (Panthera onca), the largest feline in the Americas. Once widespread across much of the country, the species now survives mainly in the Yungas…
Capybaras in Argentina: Fascinating Wildlife & Where to See ThemIf you’re fascinated by wildlife, Capybaras in Argentina are a fascinating species to encounter. Known locally as carpinchos, these gentle semi-aquatic mammals are the largest rodents in the world and…
Birds of the Ibera Wetlands: A Spectacular Wildlife ExperienceThe Iberá Wetlands, located in Corrientes Province in northeastern Argentina, are one of South America’s most important biodiversity reserves. Covering more than 13,000 km², the Iberá Wetlands form…
Marsh Deer – The Largest Deer in South AmericaThe marsh deer (Blastocerus dichotomus) is the largest deer species in South America and one of the most emblematic mammals of the Argentine wetlands. Known for its reddish-brown coat, large black…
Yacaré Caiman – Argentina’s Prehistoric ReptileFound across the wetlands of northern Argentina, the Yacare Caiman is one of the most iconic reptilian inhabitants of the region. These crocodilian creatures—often seen basking along riverbanks or…
- Giant Anteater – The Flagship Species of Argentina’s Grasslands
Giant Anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) is one of South America’s most iconic and unusual mammals. With its elongated snout, bushy tail, and slow, deliberate movements, the Giant Anteater seems…
La Lorenza Iguazu: An Amazing Wildlife & Nature ExperienceLa Lorenza Iguazu is a small private reserve of native forest located about 45 km from Iguazú, approximately a 50-minute drive from the city. Set along the Paraná River near Puerto Libertad, the…
- Birds of Iguazu Falls & Misiones
The province of Misiones, in northeastern Argentina, is a jewel of the Atlantic Rainforest (also Misiones Rainforest). Though it covers only a small portion of the country, it holds an outsized…
- El Impenetrable National Park – Argentina’s New Frontier of Wilderness
El Impenetrable National Park, located in the heart of the Gran Chaco region, is one of Argentina’s newest and most ambitious conservation areas. Created in 2014, this vast protected area covers…
Condors in Argentina & Chile: Discover Their Majestic WorldCondors in Argentina are among the country’s most impressive wildlife encounters. Gliding effortlessly over the Andes Mountains, Patagonia, and other rugged landscapes, the Andean Condor is one of the…
Andean Flamingo: A Spectacular High-Altitude BirdThe Andean Flamingo (Phoenicoparrus andinus) is one of the most fascinating birds of South America. Native to the high-altitude wetlands of the Andes Mountains, this elegant species has become a…
Birds of ArgentinaWith more than 1,000 bird species, Argentina is one of the most diverse birding destinations in South America. From the colorful species of the north to the majestic seabirds of Patagonia, the country…
Wild Cats of ArgentinaWild Cats of Argentina are among the country’s most fascinating and elusive wildlife species. From the mighty jaguar roaming subtropical forests to the tiny kodkod hidden deep within Patagonian…
Huemul: The Remarkable South Andean Deer of PatagoniaThe Patagonian Huemul (Hippocamelus bisulcus), also known as the South Andean deer, South Andean Huemul, or Chilean huemul, is one of the most endangered deer species in South America. It is also an…
Sea Lions in ArgentinaSea Lions in Argentina are among the most fascinating marine animals found along the country's extensive Atlantic coastline. From the rugged shores of Patagonia to the famous Península Valdés, these…
Fauna Calendar in Puerto Madryn: Plan Your Unforgettable Wildlife EncounterThe Fauna Calendar in Puerto Madryn is a useful guide to understanding Puerto Madryn wildlife and planning a wildlife-focused trip to Patagonia, as different species follow distinct seasonal…
Why Choose Beyond BA
Personalized Trips
Travel itineraries built together with you from the very beginning. Tailored to your preferences, travel pace, budget range and preferred accommodation style.
Local Experts
As the best recommendations come from real experiences, we personally explore the places and activities we recommend, while always discovering new ones to share with you.
Genuine Connections
Our work has led us to build meaningful partnerships with local experts across Argentina and Chile, connecting us to truly authentic experiences.
Positive Impact
Our aim is to promote responsible travel by respecting local cultures, protecting the places we explore together and preserving the cultural & natural heritage of our country.
What Our Travelers Say
TripAdvisor
My dream was to go to Patagonia. I was planning it for a long time but decided to find someone who could help me with it. I was assigned with Lucila and this is when my dream stared coming true. She was the most attentive, helpful, and caring person. Listened to every concern I had and paid attention to all my wishes regarding how I want this trip to be like. When the itinerary was ready and the trip booked, she made sure everything was going smoothly. While in Argentina, I can't think of anything that went not according to plan. All the trips, pick-ups, activities were perfectly planned and Lucila was always within reach in case I had any questions. Honestly, this trip was a dream come true and the service quality impeccable. Now, I can't imagine planning my next trip to Argentina with anyone else
WeTravel
Victoria at BA Travel organized the most incredible trip down to the smallest details and connected us to wonderful local guides where needed. She really went the extra mile to make sure everything went smoothly and that is was the kind of trip that I would enjoy. I have traveled all over the world and have used a variety of services and I am so impressed with BA Travel and highly recommend them.
TrustPilot
Enjoyable experience in Patagonia Beyond BA , especially Alvaro, our advisor, did a great job helping plan our itinerary in Patagonia. Alvaro was very responsive and gave us good insights/advices during the planning process. At the onset and everyday we received reminders/updates on our drivers and activities for the next day. The whole trip was arranged smoothly and local operators/guides and drivers were all reliable and helpful. We enjoyed our trip and will definitely use them again if I go back to Argentina.
I suppose that Beyond BA got its name… I suppose that Beyond BA got its name from the fact that its organization of trips is BEYOND any expectations one can imagine. Their professionalism is of the highest standards. Lucila (our contact) followed us from the very beginning throughout our journey with her support and advice. All the reservations, flights, guides were as scheduled. It was amazing. To everyone that wishes to visit Argentina, only one travel agency: Beyond.....
Victoria and the team were Exceptional!!! Every email I sent was promptly answered, bookings and payments made easy with Beyond BA and Victoria's professionalism. Highly recommended to book through Beyond BA. Our tour was to Patagonia for hiking and it was an amazing experience. Great value for money. One of the most organised I've been on. Only having to carry day packs on the hikes was a bonus and the camp grounds were comfortable and an experience in its self. There was 3 of us and Victoria secured us triple rooms when not camping. Can not recommend Beyond BA highly enough and Victoria, thank you
We had a fantastic time during the trip and everything was organised perfectly by Beyond BA. They gave us great advices on how to better organise the trip suggesting great locations. In particular our contact Alvaro was fantastic, he was always available for any doubts we had during the trip and we are very grateful for his help!
We enjoyed the interaction with the company, specifically Julieta... Very well organized. Very good guides and drivers.