Why stop here
San Julián is far more than a fuel stop on Route 3. According to the provincial tourism office, this is where Ferdinand Magellan's expedition landed in 1520, and later where the Beagle called with Charles Darwin aboard. The Diocese of Río Gallegos places the first documented Mass in what is now Argentina in this bay, on 1 April 1520.
Things to do
- Nao Victoria Theme Museum: a replica of Magellan's ship on the waterfront.
- Coastal Circuit: a drive past beaches and cliffs, with an official audio guide you can download from the province.
- Boat trips on the bay: Banco Cormorán, Penguin Island and Banco/Isla Justicia, with sightings of Commerson's dolphins and seabirds.
- Makenke Interjurisdictional Marine Park: a marine protected area known for its red-legged cormorants.
- Rosa Novak Museum, Museo del Campo (rural life museum), First Mass Monument and La Cascada Nature Reserve.
- Estancia La María: a rock-art site northwest of town, off Route 77 (about 140–150 km according to local sources). Visits by reservation only.
Getting there
Via National Route 3. The nearest airport with scheduled flights mentioned by the province is Comodoro Rivadavia (Chubut). For distances, bus schedules and travel tips, see our article Where is Puerto San Julián?
Useful info
Puerto San Julián Tourism Office: Av. San Martín 1570. Open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 8 pm, according to the provincial website.
Looking for somewhere to stay or eat? Check the San Julián directory.
