Patagonia is a vast wildland. The Santa Cruz Province has a population density of just one person per square kilometer and seven protected national parks. The region's remoteness means there is plenty of room for fauna. Bird watchers dream of traveling here. Lucky visitors may see sea lions, wild llamas, foxes, pumas, cormorants, penguins, orcas, condors, mini armadillos, huemul deer, and more. For people planning or dreaming of a Patagonian adventure, here's how and where to discover its wildlife.
On The Road
One of the best ways to see the wildlife is simply by driving along the highway. Travelers are sure to spot guanacos on the shoulder. In fact, locals consider these wild llamas something of a nuisance since they pose a threat to cars if drivers aren't paying close attention, much like North American deer. Most often, visitors will see a lone male on a ridge or hilltop. He's acting as a lookout for his herd who are likely nearby, hidden in a valley. Pull over and watch for a while, they may make an appearance. The real spectacle starts when these graceful animals leap over two-meter high fences effortlessly. Don't get too close though, because much like their llama cousins they'll spit if they're angry.
Most travelers also catch sight of ñandus, also called choiques. These are large flightless birds, similar to ostriches. In the spring, passersby may see the fathers herding families of 20 tiny hatchlings (but sometimes as many as 40) while the mothers are out grocery shopping for insects and small lizards. These comical birds are a delightful sight.
Travelers in cars will likely spot piches, or small armadillos, and foxes, as well. Piches are shy and will quickly dig a hole to get away from perceived threats. If drivers see one cross the road, it's fairly simple to stop quickly enough to snap a picture. These critters can't run very fast. Locals catch and eat them, but they're protected wildlife, so let them go on their way.
Hiking El Chalten
Hikers consider the town of El Chalten a paradise. Amazing trails start right in the middle of town so there's no need to organize transportation from hostel to trailhead. Many people hike here to see the El Chorillo waterfall, spectacular views of jagged Mount Fitz Roy, and mountain lakes. There's another reason to hike here: the wildlife.
Most striking are the birds. More than 100 species live in the woods here, but the Andean condors and Maganellic woodpeckers are the most representative of the region. Another favorite is the loica which is easy to spot due to its bright red chest.
The most secretive and sought out fauna in this area is a small sweet deer known locally as a huemul. They are an endangered species and park rangers keep close tabs on them. As soon as visitors enter El Chalten, authorities ask them to report any sightings.
Kayaking With Penguins And More
On the coast of Santa Cruz, far from El Chalten's mountains, lies the town of Puerto Deseado. This tourist destination gained fame for the marine life that lives nearby. Boat excursions take visitors past island penguin colonies, jumping black and white dolphins (toninas), near beaches with sunbathing sea lions, and cliffs with nesting commorants. In just a few hours, visitors see a huge variety of fauna.
For a closer encounter, travelers can kayak Puerto Deseado's ria. From start to finish this will take about two days. On the second day, kayakers row right past penguin colonies. If they eat lunch nearby, the curious birds may waddle over to see what's going on. Farther along, kayaks pass by rocks with resting sea lions. Visitors shouldn't get too close--these huge marine animals may jump into the water and splash them. Upon arrival at the town's port, nesting cormorants welcome kayakers. These birds' squawked greeting sounds unexpectedly like grunting pigs.