Patagonian Mara

The Patagonian Mara resembles a mix between a rabbit and a small deer and is an essential part of Argentina’s wildlife. It can often be spotted in the country’s expansive grasslands and semi-desert…

Patagonian MaraPatagonian mara walking on green grass, with its long legs and hare-like ears

The Patagonian Mara resembles a mix between a rabbit and a small deer and is an essential part of Argentina’s wildlife. It can often be spotted in the country’s expansive grasslands and semi-desert landscapes, especially in the Patagonian steppe. One of the best places to observe this fascinating animal is Peninsula Valdés, where visitors can also encounter many other remarkable species.

Features and Characteristics of the Patagonian Mara

The Patagonian Mara, scientifically known as Dolichotis patagonum, is a large rodent native to Argentina. Despite its rabbit-like appearance, it is closely related to the guinea pig family. Here are some of the remarkable characteristics that make this animal stand out:

  • Size and Appearance: Adult maras can grow up to 70–80 cm in length and weigh between 8 and 16 kg. They have long, powerful hind legs and shorter forelegs, giving them a distinctive bounding gait somewhat similar to that of a kangaroo. Their large eyes and long ears give them a unique and endearing appearance.
  • Social Structure: Patagonian Maras are known for their strong social bonds and usually live in pairs, often forming lifelong relationships. Although they are monogamous, several pairs may live near one another, creating small colonies during the breeding season.
  • Diet and Behavior: These animals are herbivores that primarily feed on grasses and low shrubs abundant throughout the Patagonian steppe. They are highly adapted to arid environments and obtain most of their hydration from the plants they consume. Maras are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk, avoiding the hottest hours of the day.

Where to Find the Patagonian Mara in Patagonia

Patagonian Maras are found throughout Patagonia’s grasslands and shrublands, particularly in the provinces of Chubut and Santa Cruz. They are commonly spotted in open plains, where they can use their impressive speed — reaching up to 45 km/h — to escape predators. These wide-open landscapes also provide excellent visibility for travelers hoping to observe them.

One of the best places to see the Patagonian Mara is Peninsula Valdés, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Chubut Province. This region is famous not only for its exceptional marine wildlife but also for its abundance of terrestrial animals, including the Patagonian Mara.

When visiting the peninsula, keep an eye out along roads and open areas, especially during the early morning or late afternoon, when maras are most active.

Another excellent location for spotting them is Parque Patagonia Argentina, near the Cave of Hands. In this remote Patagonian landscape, maras coexist with other native desert species, such as the Chinchillón Anaranjado.

When to Visit Peninsula Valdés for Wildlife Spotting

Peninsula Valdés is a fantastic destination for wildlife viewing throughout the year, although the best time to visit depends on the species you hope to encounter.

Patagonian Maras can be observed year-round, but travelers visiting between September and December have a greater chance of spotting young maras alongside their parents, as this is the primary breeding season.

In addition to the Patagonian Mara, Peninsula Valdés is home to a wide variety of extraordinary wildlife, particularly marine species:

  • Southern Right Whales: Between June and late November, Southern Right Whales gather off the coast to mate and give birth, making Peninsula Valdés one of the world’s premier whale-watching destinations. If you visit between June and early October, don’t miss El Doradillo Beach.
  • Orcas: Famous for their unique hunting technique of intentionally beaching themselves to catch sea lions, Orcas in Patagonia are frequently sighted near Punta Norte.
  • Elephant Seals and Sea Lions: Colonies of Southern Elephant Seals and sea lions inhabit the beaches of Peninsula Valdés, particularly between August and March.
  • Magellanic Penguins: Penguins in Patagonia begin arriving in September and October, with breeding season peaking in November, providing excellent opportunities for close observation.
Southern right whale and calf beside a whale-watching boat off Península Valdés, seen from aboveOrca beaching itself to hunt sea lion pups at Punta Norte, Península Valdés

Exploring Patagonia’s Wildlife with a Custom Tour

For travelers interested in experiencing the Patagonian Mara and Patagonia’s remarkable biodiversity, a custom-designed journey is the ideal way to make the most of the region.

Patagonia’s vast landscapes offer unforgettable wildlife encounters, from the open plains where maras roam freely to the Atlantic coastlines filled with marine life.

Beyond BA Latam specializes in personalized Patagonia experiences, allowing travelers to explore both iconic destinations and lesser-known areas rich in wildlife. From guided tours in Peninsula Valdés to remote Patagonian adventures, our itineraries are designed to immerse visitors in the natural beauty of Argentina.

In addition to wildlife experiences, we also offer luxury travel, hiking, cruises, and self-drive adventures throughout Patagonia, including the following travel ideas:

Patagonia Wildlife Tours

Argentina Wildlife Tours

Patagonia Wildlife Safari

Patagonia Tours

Argentina Tours

Patagonia Road Trips

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Beyond BA Latam is a local travel agency based in Argentina that designs personalized tours in Argentina, Chile and Antarctica. We are very proud to work with a knowledgeable team capable to design trips based on your interests and traveling style. We are able to bring you a different and more enjoyable experience.

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