Rio Deseado
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With sparkling, emerald green water and a thriving marine life, the Ría Deseado is one of the most exciting, and most unknown, places in all of Argentina. The rio, which is a long, tidal inlet of water, technically speaking, is 42 kilometers long, and sits in an ancient river valley or the Deseado River.
The Río Deseado Natural Reserve has the highest level of marine biodiversity in all of South America, including a couple of species that will make you giddy with delight upon seeing them.
The main star of the area is the Commerson’s Dolphin, more commonly known as a Skunk Dolphin or Piebald Dolphin. This small, black and white creature is only found in two places in the entire world, including many inlets in Argentina and the Strait of Magellan. The second area is in the Indian Ocean, near the Kerguelen Islands.
The dolphin is especially active, swimming quickly and often leaping and jumping from the water. Even when it is underwater it swims with vigor, spinning and twisting, and catching waves like a natural surfer when close to the shoreline. It even swims upside-down from time to time.
The other animals you’ll want to see most are the migratory birds and penguins, both of which are around for spring and summer. They arrive in September, but will be gone by early fall. These are just a few of the species you’ll be able to observe while visiting Río Deseado; its rich concentration of marine life results in one of the purest, most untouched jewels in all of South America. You’ll want to stay in Puerto Deseado, the natural home base for the area. It is located 300 kilometers from Comodoro Rivadavia, in Patagonia and sits on RP 281, which you can reach by way of RN 3.
There are numerous circuits to explore from Puerto Deseado. Impressive cliffs sit at the end of the inlet, which are known as the Miradores de Darwin, a barren and infinite landscape which offer breathtaking views. Another popular circuit is the Siete Cuevas (Seven Caves), which is a volcanic ash formation created over 15 million years ago.
The area is also home to many historic and beautiful lighthouses, one of which is called Faro Isla Pingüino (Penguin Island Lighthouse), and sits surrounded by the formal-looking little creatures when they are in the area, although that is not the only place they can be found. There are many amazing places to visit in Patagonia in this travel Argentina guide.
Adventure seekers will also find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the landscape. Taking advantage of the water and, sometimes, the winds, you can kite surf, windsurf, sail, canoe, kayak, and scuba dive. The land offers equally fun and exciting activities, including 4-wheeling, mountain biking, trekking and horseback riding. Most of these activities can be done at various levels of difficulty, ensuring enjoyment by anyone and everyone. Bird watching is, of course, another popular activity to do while around. This is for sure one of the most fantastic places of Argentina.
The area is known for its fine seafood, homemade sweets, Patagonian lamb and artisan beer. Many fine restaurants can be found offering any combination of the specialties of the area. The government promotes tourism, and the tourist office is a great place to start. There is no shortage of things to do and see here, so be sure to allow plenty of time to soak it all up.