If you’re looking for a unique destination in Argentina, Ushuaia should definitely be on your list. Whether you want to hike through pristine nature, spot penguins on Martillo Island, trek on a glacier, or experience the end of the world, this southernmost destination promises an unforgettable travel experience.
Ushuaia is perfect for nature lovers, adventurers, and anyone eager to explore the edge of the world. Read on to discover the best things to do in Ushuaia and plan your unforgettable adventure at the end of the world.
Where is Ushuaia Located in Argentina?
Ushuaia is situated in the far south of Argentina, in Patagonia’s Tierra del Fuego province. It’s located on the southern coast of Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego, right by the Beagle Channel, and surrounded by the Martial mountain range. This makes Ushuaia the southernmost city in the world, often referred to as “Fin del Mundo” (End of the World).
From Ushuaia, you might consider traveling to Antarctica, as many expeditions to the white continent start here. However, keep in mind that this is a long and very expensive journey. The city also serves as a starting point for cruises through the Patagonian fjords and to Cape Horn.
The city is set in a stunning environment with imposing mountains on one side and the picturesque Beagle Channel on the other. This channel, named after Charles Darwin’s ship, is a crucial waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Ushuaia is not directly connected to mainland Argentina; to reach it by land, you must travel through Chile.
Near Ushuaia, you’ll find other famous Argentine attractions like Tierra del Fuego National Park, which offers hiking trails, lakes, and forests. The Cerro Castor ski resort, the world’s southernmost ski area, is also nearby. To the north of Ushuaia lies the city of Río Grande, an important hub for travelers in the region.
You can include Ushuaia in your Patagonian itinerary before or after visiting El Calafate, where you can marvel at the impressive Perito Moreno Glacier. Punta Arenas, known for its penguins, is also in the far south of Argentina.
What is Ushuaia Known For?
Ushuaia is renowned as the southernmost city in the world and a gateway to Antarctica. It is famous for its spectacular natural scenery, including national parks, fjords, and glaciers.
Ushuaia’s geographical location on the Beagle Channel and surrounded by the Martial mountain range makes it the world’s southernmost city. This unique position has earned the city the nickname “Fin del Mundo” (End of the World). This alone attracts countless tourists each year who seek the famous End of the World passport stamp and photo opportunities with the End of the World sign.
Additionally, Ushuaia is a major departure port for Antarctic expeditions. Many ships bound for the Antarctic continent depart from this city, making it a crucial hub for both tourists and scientists heading to the South Pole. So, if an Antarctic journey is on your bucket list, this is the place to be.
The nature around Ushuaia is also a major draw. The city is set in a spectacular environment with mountains, glaciers, and the Beagle Channel. Tierra del Fuego National Park, located near the city, offers visitors the chance to hike, camp, and observe wildlife such as birds and beavers. This park is known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Lastly, Ushuaia is famous for its penguin colonies. On nearby islands like Isla Martillo, visitors can observe penguins in their natural habitat, including species such as Magellanic and Gentoo penguins.
Where to Stay in Ushuaia
Ushuaia is not a destination for a quick day trip. You’ll likely spend several days here, and we recommend staying at least three nights.
Deciding where to stay in Ushuaia isn’t difficult. Ushuaia isn’t particularly large, so you’ll generally be in a good location no matter where you stay. The main question is whether you want to stay in the city itself or enjoy views of the Beagle Channel or the surrounding mountains. Would you prefer to stay in or outside Ushuaia?
The city itself is centered around Avenida San Martin, the main street of Ushuaia. If you want to be close to shops, restaurants, and city life, look for accommodation near this street. If you seek a quieter environment with beautiful views, consider the outskirts of Ushuaia. The road to Glacier Martial on the west side of the city offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape. The area around Mirador Arakur on the east side also provides gorgeous panoramic views.
The best hostels and hotels in Ushuaia:
#1 Hosteria Foike is a charming and budget-friendly B&B in the heart of Ushuaia, housed in an authentic wooden building. It offers beautiful views of the Beagle Channel and the surrounding mountains. The B&B features a library and an art gallery.
#2 Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa is one of the most luxurious resorts in Ushuaia, located outside the city in the Cerro Alarkén nature reserve. The rooms offer impressive panoramic views of the sea or mountains. The resort has two pools, its own spa, and walking trails around the hotel.
#3 Antartica Hostel is the most popular hostel in Ushuaia among backpackers and budget travelers, known for its cozy atmosphere and excellent facilities. The hostel offers both dormitories and double rooms, all with shared bathrooms. Guests can use a fully equipped kitchen and enjoy an extensive breakfast.
#4 Los Acebos Ushuaia Hotel provides spacious rooms with stunning views of the Beagle Channel. Guests can enjoy daily special activities such as forest yoga or archery lessons. There is a free shuttle service to the city center, making it easy to explore Ushuaia.
#5 Ushuaia Lodge Las Margaritas 430 is a beautiful lodge with a cozy, rustic ambiance. The accommodation features a garden, free private parking, a terrace, and a bar, all managed by a helpful and hospitable family.
#6 Hotel Los Cauquenes Resort & Spa is a five-star luxury accommodation in Ushuaia boasting a private beach. Everything is stylishly decorated and meticulously cared for. The highlight is the panoramic view of the Beagle Channel and the mountains. The fully equipped spa, pool, and outdoor hot tub with views complete the luxurious stay.
Ushuaia Tourist Map
Top Things to Do in Ushuaia
#1 Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego
The most famous attraction near Ushuaia is undoubtedly Tierra del Fuego National Park. Located about 12 kilometers west of Ushuaia, the park spans 630 square kilometers and offers a unique mix of mountains, lakes, forests, and coastline, with spectacular views of the Beagle Channel and the surrounding mountains.
Hiking is the best way to explore Tierra del Fuego National Park, with well-marked trails for all levels. The challenging Cerro Guanaco route is a 12.5-kilometer trek that takes 5 to 7 hours and offers some of the best views in the park. Starting at the Alakush Visitor Center, the trail takes you through forests and swamps before a steep climb to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas.
Another popular trail is the Senda Costera, an 8-kilometer coastal walk that takes about 2 to 4 hours. This route runs along the beautiful coastline of the park, offering stunning views of the Beagle Channel and the mountains in Chile. You can hike it in either direction, starting at the Alakush Visitor Center or at Ensenada Zaratiegui, home to the southernmost post office in the world.
Other notable trails include Pampa Alta and Hito XXIV. The 4.7-kilometer Pampa Alta trail offers beautiful views over the Beagle Channel and the Pipo River valley. The 4.5-kilometer Hito XXIV trail runs along the base of the mountains and the Acigami Lake to the Chilean border.
The park is open daily, with shorter hours in winter. You can reach the park by shuttle bus, taxi, or the Tren del Fin del Mundo.
#2 End of the World
With a reputation as the End of the World, Ushuaia offers attractions that highlight this unique status. A photo with the famous Fin del Mundo sign is a must, and sending a postcard from the southernmost post office in the world is a special experience.
The iconic Fin del Mundo sign, located along the waterfront in downtown Ushuaia, symbolically marks the “end of the world” and is a popular photo spot. It’s easy to visit and offers beautiful views of the Beagle Channel.
The End of the World Post Office is located in Tierra del Fuego National Park, on the shores of Bahía Ensenada Zaratiegui. This small, cozy post office is built from corrugated iron and wood and is the southernmost place on Earth to send mail. Visitors can get their passports stamped and send unique postcards. The interior is decorated with stickers and cards from around the world. To visit the post office, take Ruta 3 to the park and follow the signs to the coastal path.
Additionally, there is the Museo del Fin del Mundo. Spread across two buildings, the museum offers insights into the history of Tierra del Fuego. The main building, housed in a former bank on Avenida Maipú, features exhibits on the indigenous peoples and early explorers. The second building, the old Casa de Gobierno, has exhibitions on the history of Ushuaia and the local wildlife.
#3 Martial Glacier & Vinciguerra Glacier
In Ushuaia, you can visit several impressive glaciers, including the Martial Glacier and the Vinciguerra Glacier. Both glaciers offer unique experiences and are definitely worth a visit. The Martial Glacier is ideal for an accessible and relatively easy hike with stunning views. The Vinciguerra Glacier, on the other hand, provides an adventurous challenge for experienced hikers who want to enjoy the unspoiled nature of Tierra del Fuego.
The Martial Glacier is just seven kilometers from downtown Ushuaia and is one of the most accessible glaciers in the region. Located in the Martial Glacier Nature Reserve, it offers stunning views of the city, the Beagle Channel, and the surrounding mountains. What makes the Martial Glacier unique is the combination of easily accessible hiking trails and the opportunity to ski in the winter months.
Visitors can reach the glacier by a short car or taxi ride from Ushuaia. We chose to hike from Ushuaia to the glacier. From the parking lot at the glacier, it is a relatively accessible hike towards the glacier, following a trail through Fuegian forests that offers breathtaking views along the way. In summer, it’s a popular spot for trekking, while in winter, it’s a favorite destination for skiers. At the trailhead, there’s a teahouse where you can enjoy a warm drink after your adventure.
The Vinciguerra Glacier, located in the Valle de Andorra, is a more challenging and adventurous alternative to the Martial Glacier. This glacier is known for its rugged and unspoiled beauty. The hike to the Vinciguerra Glacier starts in the Andorra Valley and takes you past the scenic Laguna de los Témpanos, an ice lake with floating icebergs.
The hike to the Vinciguerra Glacier is physically demanding and requires good fitness. The route is about seven kilometers long and takes an average of four to five hours to reach the top. Along the way, you pass through various vegetation zones and get spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the blue waters of the lagoon. The final part of the hike is the steepest and most challenging, but the reward is a breathtaking view of the glacier itself.
#4 Hike to Laguna Esmeralda
One of the most beautiful hikes in Patagonia is the accessible Laguna Esmeralda hike. The route is a total of 9.6 kilometers round trip, and you can complete the hike in about four hours. However, we recommend allowing at least five hours so you can take breaks and enjoy the spectacular views and nature along the way.
The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow with little elevation change, making it quite accessible. However, the difficulty can vary depending on the weather conditions, as rain can make the paths muddy and slippery.
The hike starts from a parking lot in Valle de Los Lobos, 17 kilometers east of Ushuaia. You can hike the trail on your own, but guided hikes are also available from the city. Be sure to wear a good pair of waterproof hiking boots and bring enough food and water for the hike.
#5 Laguna de Los Témpanos Hike
The hike to Laguna de Los Témpanos and Vinciguerra Glacier is one of the most beautiful and challenging walks in Ushuaia. This hike offers spectacular views and a very diverse landscape.
The hike starts in the Valle de Andorra, about 7 kilometers from Ushuaia. It is a day hike of about six to seven hours, depending on your pace and the weather conditions. The total distance is 13 kilometers with an elevation gain of 600 meters, which requires good fitness, especially as some parts of the trail are quite steep.
The first part of the trail takes you through a valley with beautiful mountain views. Then, you trek through sub-Antarctic forests, where you might encounter beaver dams. The final part of the hike is the steepest and most challenging, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of the turquoise lagoon and the Vinciguerra Glacier. Near the lagoon, there are beautiful ice caves you can explore.
The best time to do this hike is in the summer, from November to March, as the trail can be too muddy or inaccessible due to snow at other times of the year.
#6 Spotting Penguins on Martillo Island
Spotting penguins on Martillo Island is an unforgettable experience you shouldn’t miss when visiting Ushuaia. Located in the Beagle Channel, Martillo Island is a well-known breeding ground for Magellanic and Gentoo penguins. From September to April, travelers can watch these delightful birds in their natural habitat.
To visit Martillo Island, book a tour that usually departs from the port of Ushuaia. These tours often combine a boat trip through the Beagle Channel with a visit to the historic Harberton Ranch. Groups are kept small to ensure that only a limited number of visitors are on the island at a time, which helps protect the fragile ecosystem.
During the guided walk on the island, you’ll get the unique chance to get close to the penguins and observe their behavior. The guides provide fascinating information about the biology and habits of the penguins, allowing you to learn more about these charming creatures. You’ll see how they nest, forage, and interact with each other.
#7 Beagle Channel & Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse
A boat tour of the Beagle Channel is one of the highlights of visiting Ushuaia, and you’ll also get to admire the iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. This channel connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and offers breathtaking views. During the boat tour, you’ll see wildlife such as sea lions, cormorants, and, if you’re lucky, even whales.
The boat tours depart from the port of Ushuaia and take you past various islands, like Isla de los Pájaros and Isla de los Lobos, where you can see colonies of seabirds and sea lions. A highlight of every tour is the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, also known as the “Lighthouse at the End of the World.”
The lighthouse stands on a small island in the Beagle Channel, about 9 kilometers east of Ushuaia. The 11-meter-high lighthouse, painted with classic red and white stripes, is one of the most photographed landmarks in the region. While it isn’t accessible to the public, it can be viewed beautifully from the boat.
#8 The Museums of Ushuaia
If you want to learn more about Ushuaia and the region—or simply escape the cold weather—Ushuaia offers several fascinating museums.
The Maritime Museum of Ushuaia, housed in the former prison of Ushuaia, tells the maritime history of the region. The models of ships that undertook Antarctic expeditions are particularly interesting. This museum also provides insight into the lives of the original inhabitants and the history of the lighthouse on Isla de los Estados.
The Museum of the Prison of Ushuaia, also in the same building, offers a glimpse into the lives of prisoners who stayed in the world’s southernmost prison. It is an intriguing place where you can learn about the notorious inmates and the history of the building, which was in use until 1947.
The Antarctic Museum in Ushuaia features an extensive collection of ship models and artifacts that illustrate the history of Antarctic exploration. This museum gives visitors a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs of early expeditions to Antarctica.
The Galería Temática Historia Fueguina offers interactive exhibits and dioramas that bring the history of Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego to life. With the help of audio guides and wax figures, you learn about the indigenous people, early settlers, and the development of the region. Did you know, for example, that Ushuaia was originally a penal colony due to its isolated location?
#9 Steam Train Tren del Fin del Mundo
The Tren del Fin del Mundo, or the End of the World Steam Train, is a historic and iconic attraction in Ushuaia. This narrow-gauge railway was originally built to transport wood for the prison of Ushuaia and now offers tourists a unique journey through the beautiful landscape of Tierra del Fuego National Park.
The train departs from Estación del Fin del Mundo, about 8 kilometers west of Ushuaia. During the 7-kilometer ride, you pass through sub-Antarctic forests, peat bogs, and the Macarena Waterfall, where the train makes a short stop so passengers can explore the surroundings. The ride ends at the borders of Tierra del Fuego National Park.
What makes the Tren del Fin del Mundo unique is the combination of history and nature. Onboard the historic locomotives, you can enjoy panoramic views through the large windows while an audio guide in seven languages tells the story of the prisoners who traveled this route daily. The train operates in both summer and winter.
#10 Ski Resort Cerro Castor
Cerro Castor, the southernmost ski resort in the world, is located 26 kilometers northeast of Ushuaia and offers a unique skiing experience. Opened in 1999, the resort features 34 slopes of varying difficulty, supported by 12 lifts, including chairlifts and drag lifts. With a peak at 1,057 meters and a vertical drop of 862 meters, Cerro Castor offers runs for both beginners and advanced skiers and snowboarders.
The location of the resort on the southern slopes of Cerro Krund ensures the best snow quality in Argentina. The ski season runs from June to October, making it one of the longest ski seasons in the country. The resort also features a snow park and an ice skating rink.
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