El Calafate: Monte León 4x4 Wolves and Penguins Excursion
Lago Argentino Department, Argentina
On this tour, you will walk among penguins and observe sea lions, guanacos, and other species. The tour includes guided trekking and a packed lunch, making it ideal for exploring Monte León National Park.
Monte León 4x4: Sea Lions and Penguins Excursion from El Calafate
This full-day 4x4 tour from El Calafate combines wildlife viewing with coastal and steppe landscapes, ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Travel in a 4x4 Overland vehicle to observe native Patagonian wildlife
- 1.5-hour hike among a Magellanic penguin colony
- Hike the Lobería and Cabeza de León Trail to watch sea lions
- Professional guide, lunch, and binoculars included
Description
The tour begins with hotel pickup in El Calafate at 6:30 a.m. aboard a 4x4 Overland vehicle, heading east on Provincial Route No. 9 toward Monte León National Park, Argentina’s first national park with a coastline. Along the route, cross the Patagonian steppe and enjoy views of the Santa Cruz River valley while spotting native wildlife such as guanacos, foxes, maras, and occasionally pumas. Stops at scenic viewpoints allow for panoramic photos and wildlife observation.
At around 11:30 a.m., enter Monte León National Park and proceed to the coast. Here you will embark on a 1.5-hour easy hike along the Penguin Trail, walking among Magellanic penguin nests and reaching a viewpoint over the colony, one of the largest in the country.
Next, travel by 4x4 to the Lobería and Cabeza de León Trail. This area features a cliff resembling a reclining lion—the park’s namesake—and is home to South American fur seal colonies. Occasionally, you may spot marine mammals such as southern right whales, Peale’s dolphins, or white-headed dolphins off the coast.
The tour continues to the Monte León Island Viewpoint, where large colonies of cormorants and other seabird species can be observed.
The return journey follows the same gravel road back to El Calafate, arriving around 9:30 p.m., completing a unique visit to the only national park in Argentina that encompasses sea, coast, and steppe ecosystems.
Includes
- Transfer from El Calafate hotel to Monte León National Park in a 4x4 Overland vehicle
- 1.5-hour hike among a penguin colony
- Hike along Lobería and Cabeza de León Trail for sea lion watching
- Experienced guide throughout the excursion
- Lunch, drinks, and snacks for the entire day
- Use of binoculars
- Entrance fee to Monte León National Park
Important Information
- Bring warm clothing, waterproof jacket and pants, hiking boots, gloves, and a beanie
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, book in advance, wear comfortable hiking shoes, and bring layered clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions.
