Chubut: nature, history, and adventure in Argentine Patagonia
Within the framework of the Buy Patagonia Argentina event, held in Miami, we had the opportunity to speak with Diego Lapenna, Minister of Tourism of the Province of Chubut, about the tourist attractions offered by this Patagonian region
What are Chubut's main tourist destinations, and what are your top reasons to visit them?
Chubut is a vast and diverse province. We have coasts, plateaus, and mountain ranges, offering a unique variety of flora, fauna, and history. A must-see destination is the Valdés Peninsula, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and renowned for whale, orca, and penguin watching. In the Andean region, Los Alerces National Park, also a World Heritage Site, is ideal for trekking and adventure enthusiasts. Our province is home to 17 protected areas, reflecting our commitment to conservation.
The province has a strong influence of Welsh culture. What places would you recommend to experience this heritage?
Indeed, Welsh culture is deeply present in Chubut. Towns like Gaiman, Dolavon, and Trevelin maintain their traditions, including the language and their famous tea houses. These villages offer a unique experience for those who wish to immerse themselves in this rich cultural heritage.
Could you list other destinations within Chubut and their main attractions?
Of course. Puerto Madryn is the gateway to the Valdés Peninsula and is considered the national diving capital. Nearby, Trelew is home to the internationally renowned Egidio Feruglio Paleontological Museum (MEF). On the plateau, the Valle de Los Altares offers desert landscapes with impressive rock formations and ancient rock art. In the mountain range, towns like Lago Puelo, El Hoyo, and Esquel offer ideal natural settings for adventure tourism and direct contact with nature.
Regarding air connectivity, what facilities does Chubut offer visitors?
Our province has four airports: in Puerto Madryn, Trelew, Comodoro Rivadavia, and Esquel. This facilitates access to the different regions of Chubut and allows visitors to plan itineraries that combine diverse landscapes and experiences, entering through one airport and departing through another.
How would you describe the hotel infrastructure in the province?
Chubut offers a diverse and high-quality hotel infrastructure. Along the coast, cities like Puerto Madryn have ample hotel capacity. In the Andean region, apartment-style resorts and cabins predominate, ideal for those seeking a more natural experience. Additionally, incentives for tourism investment have been implemented, resulting in significant growth in the accommodation and service offerings.
What strategies are you implementing to attract more international tourists?
We're focusing on markets like Brazil, Uruguay, Colombia, and the United States. We participate in international events, such as VIVE Patagonia here in Miami, accompanied by Chubut tour operators. Our goal is to promote the diversity and richness of Chubut, highlighting both its natural and cultural attractions, and position the province as a premier destination in Argentine Patagonia.