Ushuaia, Argentina sits at the southern tip of South America. It’s a place that calls to those who love adventure and nature. Known as the “End of the World,” this city is full of beautiful views, deep history, and exciting activities. You can cruise the Beagle Channel, hike in Tierra del Fuego National Park, or take the famous “End of the World Train.” But what makes Ushuaia stand out, and what activities should you not miss? Let’s explore the best things to do in Ushuaia, Argentina, your entry to Patagonia’s wonders.
Key Takeaways
- Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world, located at the tip of Argentina on the Beagle Channel.
- Explore the diverse landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park, the southernmost national park in the world.
- Cruise the Beagle Channel to spot sea lions, cormorants, and the historic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse.
- Ride the iconic “End of the World Train” for a scenic journey through the stunning Patagonian landscapes.
- Witness the captivating colonies of Magellanic penguins on Martillo Island.
Introduction to Ushuaia
At the southern tip of Argentina, by the Beagle Channel, is the lively city of Ushuaia. Known as the “End of the World,” it’s a key spot for exploring Tierra del Fuego and Antarctica.
Where is Ushuaia?
Ushuaia is the southernmost city globally, located in Argentinian Patagonia. It has grown from a small town to a city of about 60,000 people in recent decades.
How to Get to Ushuaia?
The easiest way to get to Ushuaia is by a direct flight from Buenos Aires. You can also fly in from Rio Gallegos or take a bus and boat from Punta Arenas, Chile through the Magellan Straits.
When is the Best Time to Visit Ushuaia?
The best time to visit Ushuaia is from December to March, the southern hemisphere’s summer. The weather is mild, and it’s full of tourists enjoying the outdoors.
“Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world, serving as a busy port for Antarctica cruises.”
Cruise the Beagle Channel
One of the top things to do in Ushuaia is taking a boat tour on the Beagle Channel. This beautiful waterway lets you see lots of wildlife and stunning views. You’ll see sea lions and cormorants, visit Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, and explore Bridges Island on your cruise.
Spot Sea Lions and Cormorants
On the Beagle Channel, you’ll see a big group of sea lions and cormorants on rocky spots. These amazing animals live here, and a boat tour lets you watch them in their home. You’ll see sea lions sunbathing and cormorants diving for food.
Visit the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse
A key stop on the cruise is the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. It’s famous from Jules Verne’s “The Lighthouse at the End of the World.” The lighthouse is tall and gives great views of the water and the area’s history.
Explore Bridges Island
Go to Bridges Island for a unique adventure. You can get off the boat and walk on the rocky land. Here, you can see different plants and animals. From here, you’ll see amazing views of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia.
There are many tour options for the Beagle Channel. You can pick a short cruise or a longer one based on what you like. This trip is a must-do in Ushuaia.
Hike to Laguna Esmeralda
Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, is famous for its beautiful nature. The hike to Laguna Esmeralda is a top choice. It’s 8.7 kilometers (5.4 miles) long and is considered moderately difficult.
The trail gets tough after heavy rain, becoming muddy and boggy. But after dry weather, it’s easy and fun. At the end, you’ll see a stunning emerald lake, with the Andean peaks around it.
Guided tours are available, but the trail is easy to follow on your own. You can bring a picnic lunch and eat by the lake. The hike takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on your fitness and the weather.
There are more trails in Ushuaia with amazing views and unique experiences. You can try the tough Ojo del Albino Glacier hike, the moderate Laguna Turquesa trek, or the Glaciar Martial hike for great views.
If you love hiking or just want a beautiful outdoor adventure, don’t miss the Laguna Esmeralda hike. It’s a key activity in Ushuaia, the gateway to Tierra del Fuego and southern Argentina’s beautiful landscapes.
Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park
Located just 17 kilometers from Ushuaia’s center, Tierra del Fuego National Park is a gem for nature lovers. It’s a small park but full of stunning views and trails for all. Whether you’re an expert hiker or just starting out, there’s something for you in Argentina’s southernmost national park.
Hike the Trails
The park has trails for every hiker. The Senda Costera trail is a favorite, stretching 8 kilometers along the coast. It takes about 2-3 hours to finish. For a bit more challenge, try the Hito XXIV trail, a 7-kilometer hike to Lago Acigami.
For those seeking adventure, the Cerro Guanaco trail is a choice. It’s an 8-kilometer hike with amazing views, but it takes longer, about 4 hours.
Visit Bahia Lapataia
Bahia Lapataia is a key spot in the park, marking the end of the Pan-American Highway. This beautiful bay is surrounded by stunning nature. You can join a guided tour or explore on your own, but Bahia Lapataia is a must-see.
Spot Wildlife
While hiking, watch for the park’s diverse wildlife. You might see beavers, birds, and more. With luck, you could catch a glimpse of some of the park’s rare animals.
Visiting Tierra del Fuego National Park is an experience you won’t forget. It lets you dive into the area’s natural beauty. Whether you’re up for a tough hike or just want to enjoy the views, this park is a top spot in Ushuaia.
Ushuaia, Argentina: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Ushuaia is more than just the Tierra del Fuego National Park and Beagle Channel cruises. It’s a place full of unique adventures for those who love the outdoors. You can hike the Martial Glacier for amazing views or take the End of the World Train to learn about the area’s history.
For those interested in culture, there’s the Ushuaia Maritime Museum and the old prison. These places tell the town’s interesting story.
Wildlife lovers will adore Ushuaia. You can see penguins up close on Martillo Island or watch sea lions and cormorants in the Beagle Channel. And don’t miss trying the local king crab at a top restaurant.
Ushuaia has something for everyone. It’s perfect for those who want adventure, beautiful nature, and real cultural experiences in Argentina’s far south.
- Hike the Martial Glacier for stunning vistas
- Ride the End of the World Train to explore the region’s history
- Discover the Ushuaia Maritime Museum and former prison
- Witness the captivating penguin colonies on Martillo Island
- Indulge in the local specialty of centolla (king crab)
“Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world, offering a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural exploration.”
Ushuaia is a paradise for those who love adventure and nature. You can hike in Tierra del Fuego National Park, cruise the Beagle Channel, or just walk around the town. It’s a place that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Ride the End of the World Train
Visiting Ushuaia, Argentina, means you can’t miss the “End of the World Train,” also known as the Tren del Fin del Mundo. This historic steam train was made by prisoners to carry timber. Now, it takes tourists on a scenic trip through Tierra del Fuego National Park’s stunning landscapes.
Train Route and History
The End of the World Train takes a 50-minute ride, covering the last 7 kilometres of the original route. It starts at the End of the World train station, 8 kilometres west of Ushuaia, and ends at the Tierra del Fuego National Park station. Passengers see the Burnt Bridge, La Macarena Waterfall Station, the Tree Cemetery, and the National Park Station along the way.
Onboard Experience
Book your Ushuaia train tickets early, especially in the busy season. You can choose from Tourist Class, Premium Class, or VIP Class, each offering different levels of comfort and food. The Tren del Fin del Mundo has an audio guide in many languages, making it easy for everyone to enjoy.
After the train stops at the National Park Station, you can get off to explore Tierra del Fuego National Park. Or, join a guided tour that includes the End of the World Train and other places like Bahia Ensenada Zaratiegui and Bahia Lapataia.
The End of the World Train is a key experience in Ushuaia, Argentina. Its history, beautiful views, and varied experience make it a must-do. Don’t miss this chance to see the natural beauty of Tierra del Fuego National Park on this iconic train.
Walk with Penguins on Martillo Island
Ushuaia is famous for its chance to walk among Magellanic penguins on Martillo Island. This special experience is only through tours. It lets visitors see the penguins up close in their home. The best time to see them is from November to February, when there are the most penguins. Visiting in March can also be good, before they head north.
Penguin Viewing Tours
Piratour is the only one offering tours to Martillo Island. They give the chance to walk with Martillo Island penguins. The tour, lasting 8-9 hours, takes you through beautiful landscapes to the island. Piratour limits the group to 20 people, making it a personal experience.
Best Time for Penguin Watching
The best time to see penguins in Ushuaia is during breeding season, from early October to February. This is when you can see penguins in their home and the young ones arrive. Tours to the island near Ushuaia have only two trips a day with 20 passengers each. It’s wise to book early, especially in the busy season.
“In Ushuaia, visitors are allowed to walk on the island with penguins in groups not exceeding twenty people.”
Visit the Prison and Maritime Museums
Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, has a special place to visit – the Prison and Maritime Museum complex. This place lets you explore the area’s history and maritime past.
The old prison closed in 1947. Now, it shows us the tough life of inmates who worked on the Ushuaia Prison Museum and the End of the World Train. Walking through the cold, dark cells, you feel the hard times they went through.
But there’s more than just the prison. The complex also has the Ushuaia Maritime Museum, the Antarctic Museum, and the Marine Art Museum. These museums tell us about Ushuaia’s maritime history and its link to Antarctica. You can take your time with the ticket, valid for two days, to dive deep into the city’s story.
| Museum | Focus | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Ushuaia Prison Museum | History of the former prison | Eerie cellblocks, insights into harsh conditions faced by inmates |
| Ushuaia Maritime Museum | Ushuaia’s maritime heritage | Exhibits on local exploration, famous explorers, and naval history |
| Antarctic Museum | Exploration of the Antarctic region | Artifacts, information, and insights into Antarctic expeditions |
| Marine Art Museum | Art depicting the marine environment | Paintings, sculptures, and other artwork showcasing the ocean and its inhabitants |
If you like history, maritime stories, or unique cultural spots, don’t miss the Prison and Maritime Museum complex in Ushuaia. It’s a great place to see the city’s past and present.
Try Centolla (King Crab)
When in Ushuaia, Argentina, don’t miss out on the local favorite – centolla, or king crab. This sweet, succulent crustacean is a key dish in Ushuaia. You’ll find it on the menus of many Ushuaia restaurants.
El Viejo Marino is famous for its king crab dishes. They serve generous portions that are best shared between two or three people.
Savor the Flavors of Centolla at Local Ushuaia Eateries
Other than El Viejo Marino, many Ushuaia restaurants offer centolla. These include:
- La Cantina del Nautico
- Kaupe
- La Estancia del Beagle
- La Cazuela del Abuelo
Whether you choose a crab cake or a whole crab, the king crab in Ushuaia is a must-try. It’s a culinary experience that will impress your taste buds.
| Restaurant | Centolla (King Crab) Dish Highlights |
|---|---|
| El Viejo Marino | Whole roasted king crab, king crab croquettes, king crab bisque |
| La Cantina del Nautico | King crab salad, king crab ravioli, king crab empanadas |
| Kaupe | Grilled king crab legs, king crab cakes, king crab risotto |
| La Estancia del Beagle | King crab burgers, king crab tacos, king crab mac and cheese |
| La Cazuela del Abuelo | King crab chowder, king crab fried in garlic butter, king crab pasta |
Enjoy the local taste of centolla, or king crab, in Ushuaia, Argentina. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers.
Conclusion
Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world, filled with unforgettable experiences. You can cruise the Beagle Channel, hike to Laguna Esmeralda, or explore Tierra del Fuego National Park. It’s a place of outdoor adventure and stunning beauty.
But there’s more than just nature. Ushuaia has a rich culture too. You can ride the historic End of the World Train or visit museums. And don’t miss trying the local specialty, centolla (king crab).
No matter the time you have, Ushuaia has something for everyone. It’s a mix of nature, culture, and adventure. This southern city will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
