What Whales Can You See?
The main species sighted is the southern right whale (Eubalaena australis).
This whale migrates from its feeding grounds (near Antarctica, etc.) to warmer, calmer waters to reproduce, mate, give birth, and raise its young.
When is the season?
The official season runs from July to October (winter to spring in the Southern Hemisphere).
Sometimes the first sightings occur a little earlier (for example, in June) if conditions are favorable.
It has also been observed that this season can extend into November in some cases.
Where to see them
The best Departments for whale watching in Uruguay are Rocha and Maldonado.
Some of the specific recommended sites:
- La Paloma (including the Cerro de la Virgen viewing platform)
- Punta del Este, Piriápolis
- Various beaches in Rocha, such as La Coronilla, Cabo Polonio, Santa Teresa, Barra de Chuy, etc.
- Natural viewpoints and elevated coastal platforms allow for observation from the mainland.
Why Uruguay is a special place for this
Uruguay’s coastal waters are part of the southern right whale’s migratory route.
In these waters, they find calm, temperate conditions ideal for breeding and raising their young.
There are regulations and laws that protect cetaceans, allowing for more responsible tourism.
Interesting recent data
During the 2023 season, many sightings were recorded: for example, 93 days with the presence of right whales, and more than 800 whales observed.
El Observador
The season is often officially launched with public events, such as in Punta del Este, organized by municipalities and the Ministry of Tourism.
