Peninsula Valdes--how long?
 

I'm planning my trip to Argentina and am hoping some of you have experience with Peninsula Valdes.

The original schedule had me there Sept 16-21 (5 nights, 3 in Puerto Madryn and 2 in Punta Delgada). I may end up being there a few days earlier in September, but the basic time is mid Sept.

[This is not in chronological order.] One day is a group excursion to see the Peninsula and Punta Delgada, with a whale watching trip. Another day is a group excursion to Punta Tomba to see the penguins. A third day is "at leisure" to enjoy the amenities of the hotel and location in Punta Delgada. The morning and afternoon of the last day (to airport later) would be to explore Puerto Madryn and the Welsh town; I very much want tea!

The remaining day was going to be an excursion to Punta Norte and Estancia San Lorenzo, but it turns out that this is amazingly expensive. Cintia at WOW!Argentina suggested that I arrange this myself at the hotel but she just wrote me that the hotel (Faro Punta Delgada) now requires that this excursion be booked through a travel agent; her net price, with no markup, is $510 (US), which is incredibly high.

She's suggesting that I spend one less day on the Peninsula (spend only 1 night at Punta Delgada),which is a possibility.

But before I commit to that, how much time would you recommend in the area?
I want to see the penguins (I"m hoping they'll be there by then), any other wildlife (sea lions? Otters?) and birds, and the whales. And I want to see the Welsh town and have tea (my beverage of choice).
I understand that distances are long, and that's a major part of the expense.

Any advice on the possibility of finding a cheaper excursion? Any guide you'd recommend?

I do not want to rent a car, so that's out. I'm willing to walk a bit; can I get to any wildlife area or point of interest from Faro Punta Delgada on foot?

Cindy