| |
|
 Estimated reading time: 1 min. |
 Marcelo Sola  Jorge González |
The Cabo Blanco Intangible Natural Reserve lies 88 kilometers North of Puerto Deseado. One of the most important colonies of South American fur seals in the country is located there. This species is undergoing a process of slow recovery after being endangered to an extent of almost becoming extinct as a result of the poaching episodes carried out during the XVIII and XIX centuries due to their precious fur.
A lighthouse built to guide the vessels that would approach the shore is standing in this spot. It features 87 meters of height and its light reaches 14 nautical miles.
|
 |
Various worldwide known sailors passed by Cabo Blanco, namely Magellan, Drake, Cavendish, Van Noort, Shoutern, Le Maire and Darwin, among the most outstanding ones. The site was given the name Cabo Blanco (White Cape) by Magellan in 1520 when he spotted three rocky white hills made of cormorant guano. Such geographical feature began to appear in the navigation charts ever since.
Undoubtedly, the first dwellers of the cape were the natives, as various objects have been found which give evidence of this fact, such as boleadoras balls, hooks, bone harpoons and arrow points. Various studies assert that the archeological sites found in Cabo Blanco might date back to 3,000 years ago. |
 |
Once in the area, the lighthouse may be accessed and visitors may also go on a hiking tour around the surroundings in order to watch the local birds.
The lighthouse tower was built in a conical shape. 110,000 trapezoidal bricks were needed to finish the construction.
To reach the top of the lighthouse, visitors must go up a spiral staircase that contains approximately 100 steps. From the top, coves and rocky islets dwelled by South American fur seals may be observed.
The site features a very important animal population. |
 |
A few kilometers away from Cabo Blanco, there is a large salt mine that may also be visited. The remains of an old mining exploitation venue may be observed there. The salt mine used to represent a big source of wealth related to sheep husbandry. Visitors must bear in mind that the preservation of meat and leather used to be carried out with the use of salt in the early XX century.
The scenery is quite attractive, therefore it is recommended that visitors take their time to tour around the Cabo Blanco area.
|
 |
this region must be accessed through National Route 281 up to the 24th kilometer marker. Once there, Provincial Routes 14 and 91 must be followed. |
|
 |
all day |
|
 |
Cis Tours
San Martín 916 Of. 1 (9050) Puerto Deseado - Santa Cruz - Argentina
Tel/Fax: +54 297 487-2864
|
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
contemplative, wildlife mapping, historical |
|
 |
