Ushuaia

Ushuaia Travel Guide

The world's southernmost city — the gateway to Antarctic expeditions and the start of Patagonia's wilderness. Spot penguins and sea lions along the Beagle Channel, and snap a photo at the 'End of the World' sign in Tierra del Fuego National Park. Winter brings skiing, while summer offers hiking and kayaking, and warming up with king crab and hot chocolate is part of the Ushuaia experience.

Essential Ushuaia Travel Info

Must-Visit Places in Ushuaia

★ 4.7

Tierra del Fuego National Park

Tierra del Fuego National Park, the world's southernmost national park, lies about 11km west of Ushuaia. At the tip of the Andes, it features a unique ecosystem of glacial lakes, peat bogs, and sub-Antarctic forest. The 'End of Route 3' sign at the southern terminus of the Pan-American Highway is a popular photo spot. The coastal trail along the shoreline and the calm scenery of Lapataia Bay are unforgettable.

HoursDaily 08:00-20:00 (winter 09:00-17:00).

LocationTierra del Fuego National Park, Ushuaia

TipsRiding the End of the World Train (Tren del Fin del Mundo) into the park is a memorable way to enter. The weather changes quickly, so bring a windproof jacket and layers.

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★ 4.6

Beagle Channel Cruise

The Beagle Channel cruise departs Ushuaia for a sailing through the channel at the end of the world. On this historic waterway, navigated by Charles Darwin aboard HMS Beagle, you can spot Magellanic penguin, sea lion, and seabird colonies. Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse — the so-called 'Lighthouse at the End of the World' — is a highlight. On clear days, snowcapped peaks and glaciers in Chilean territory complete a majestic Patagonian panorama.

HoursTour departures: 09:00, 10:00, 15:00 (varies by season).

LocationUshuaia Port, Tierra del Fuego

TipsPack motion-sickness medication and wear a windproof, waterproof jacket and gloves. Morning tours tend to have calmer seas, and the half-day (2.5-3 hour) route is the most popular.

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★ 4.2

End of the World Museum

The Museo del Fin del Mundo is a history museum in downtown Ushuaia covering the lives of Patagonia's indigenous Yámana people, the history of maritime exploration, and the region's natural history. Housed in a 1903 building that was once Argentina's southernmost bank, it's small but essential for understanding the area's history and culture. Visitors can collect an 'End of the World' passport stamp here, which is a popular souvenir.

HoursDaily 10:00-19:00 (winter 12:00-19:00).

LocationDowntown Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego

TipsBring your passport or notebook to get the 'End of the World' stamp. Allow about an hour for the visit, and combine it with a walk along the waterfront.

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★ 4.5

Martial Glacier

Martial Glacier sits in the Martial Mountains about 7km from downtown Ushuaia, making it the closest glacier trek to the city. A chairlift carries you partway up, and about an hour's hike from there reaches the glacier itself, with panoramic views of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia along the way. In winter, the area operates as a ski resort. Chairlift about ARS 5,000; trekking free. About 10 minutes by taxi from downtown.

HoursChairlift: 10:00-17:00 (trekking possible until sunset).

LocationMartial Mountains, Ushuaia

TipsWear hiking boots and bring a windproof jacket. From the chairlift, follow the right-hand trail to reach the glacier. Clear mornings offer the best views.

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★ 4.3

End of the World Train

The End of the World Train (Tren del Fin del Mundo) is a heritage railway restored along the route once used by prisoners from Ushuaia's penal colony for logging in the early 20th century. A narrow-gauge steam locomotive runs about 7km through sub-Antarctic forest, past waterfalls and rivers, to the entrance of Tierra del Fuego National Park. Onboard narration is provided in Spanish and English, with a stop at Macarena Waterfall. It's a unique way to experience Argentina's penal colony history. Tourist class about ARS 20,000. About 8km west of Ushuaia.

HoursDepartures: 09:30, 12:00, 15:00 (varies by season; reduced schedule in winter).

LocationEstación del Fin del Mundo, Ushuaia

TipsSit on the left side for views of the river and waterfall. National park admission is separate — purchase at the ticket office after disembarking.

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★ 4.4

Lago Escondido

Lago Escondido ('Hidden Lake') is an emerald lake in the Andean forest about 60km north of Ushuaia, reached by crossing Garibaldi Pass (430m) on Ruta 3. The viewpoint at Garibaldi Pass offers a 360-degree panorama of the lake and surrounding Andes, with snow-capped peaks and dense sub-Antarctic forest framing the water in a picturesque scene. Trout fishing is available at the lake, and it's popular to combine with a visit to the larger Lago Fagnano to the north. Free admission. About 1 hour by car from Ushuaia.

HoursOpen 24 hours (outdoor natural site).

LocationRuta Nacional 3, Tierra del Fuego

TipsThe view from Garibaldi Pass is the highlight, so visit on a clear day. A 4WD tour can take you down dirt roads to the lake for trout fishing and barbecue.

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★ 4.3

Ushuaia Prison Museum

The Ushuaia Prison Museum (Museo Marítimo y del Presidio) occupies Argentina's notorious penal colony, which operated from 1902 to 1947. Four of the five prison wings now serve as a maritime museum, Antarctic museum, art gallery, and penal colony history exhibition, while one wing preserves the original cells. It vividly depicts the harsh conditions prisoners endured and traces Ushuaia's transformation from a prison town to a tourist destination. Admission about ARS 8,000. About 5 minutes on foot from the waterfront downtown.

HoursDaily 10:00-20:00 (winter 12:00-19:00).

LocationDowntown Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego

TipsAllow about 2 hours for the visit. Renting an audio guide (English available) provides deeper insight into each wing's stories.

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★ 4.4

Cerro Castor Ski Resort

Cerro Castor is the world's southernmost ski resort, about 26km from Ushuaia, operating from June to October. With 34 runs and 12 lifts spanning 195-1,057m elevation, it caters to all skill levels from beginners to experts. The powdery Patagonian snow and runs through sub-Antarctic forest offer a unique skiing experience, and the summit affords views all the way to the Beagle Channel. Day lift pass about ARS 40,000. Shuttle buses run from Ushuaia.

HoursSki season (June-October): 09:00-17:00.

LocationRuta Nacional 3, Ushuaia

TipsEquipment rental is available on-site. The ski season is June-October. It's popular with Northern Hemisphere skiers who come for Southern Hemisphere winter snow.

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★ 4.6

Estancia Harberton

Founded in 1886 by British missionary Thomas Bridges, Estancia Harberton was the first permanent settlement in Tierra del Fuego and was declared a National Historic Monument in 1999. Admission costs roughly ARS 50,000 per person and includes a guided walk through the historic homestead and gardens plus entry to the Acatushún Museum of birds and marine mammals. It's about a 1.5-hour drive east of downtown Ushuaia, and the estancia is open only from mid-October through March, closed on Tuesdays.

HoursMid-October to March, closed Tuesdays, 12:00-19:00 (guided tours at set times such as 13:00, 15:00, 17:15)

LocationHarberton, Tierra del Fuego (우수아이아에서 동쪽 85km)

TipsCombine your visit with the Isla Martillo penguin tour for a full and efficient day trip.

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★ 4.7

Isla Martillo Penguin Colony

Isla Martillo belongs to Estancia Harberton but can only be visited via the exclusive tour operated by Piratour, priced at roughly USD 250-300 per person. The excursion includes a drive from Ushuaia followed by a 15-minute zodiac crossing and about an hour of guided walking among the penguins; a separate Harberton ranch entrance fee (around ARS 50,000) applies. December is best for seeing newly hatched chicks.

HoursSeasonal tours (roughly October to April), morning or afternoon departures depending on the operator's schedule

LocationBeagle Channel, near Estancia Harberton (우수아이아에서 동쪽 약 85km)

TipsNumbers are strictly limited, so book well in advance, and wear warm layers and comfortable walking shoes.

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★ 4.7

Laguna Esmeralda

The trailhead sits about 18 km from downtown Ushuaia along National Route 3; hiking independently is free (guided tours run roughly ARS 40,000-60,000 per person). The round trip covers about 9 km with 220-360 m of elevation gain, passing through lenga forest and peat bog before reaching the lagoon. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended for the muddy sections, and the round trip takes 4-5 hours.

HoursOpen year-round from sunrise to sunset; crampons recommended in winter due to snow

LocationValle de Lobos, Ruta Nacional 3 (우수아이아에서 북동쪽 약 18km)

TipsStart early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best photos.

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★ 4.2

Museo Yámana

Opened in 1999 at Rivadavia 56 in downtown Ushuaia, the museum displays intricate scale models depicting the Yámana people's life, from the peopling of the Americas through first contact with Europeans. Admission is roughly ARS 1,000-1,500, and the museum is an easy walk from the city center.

HoursDaily 10:00-20:00 (Sep-Apr), 12:00-19:00 (May-Aug)

Location우수아이아 시내 (Rivadavia 56)

TipsThe museum is small and takes about 30 minutes to see, making it easy to pair with other downtown sights.

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★ 4.5

Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse

Built in 1920, this 11-meter lighthouse stands on one of five small islets about 9 km east of Ushuaia in the Beagle Channel. Interior visits aren't permitted, but Beagle Channel boat tours (around ARS 35,000-50,000 per person) sail close by, also passing a nearby sea lion colony. Though popularly linked to Jules Verne's novel, the actual inspiration was a different, more remote lighthouse.

HoursViewable only via boat tour, with morning and afternoon departures (around 09:00 and 15:00)

LocationBeagle Channel (우수아이아에서 동쪽 약 9km 해상)

TipsMorning tours tend to have calmer waters, making them better for photos.

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★ 4.1

Muelle Turístico de Ushuaia

This free, open waterfront promenade is a short walk from downtown Ushuaia, with no admission fee. Antarctic expedition ships and cruise liners often dock nearby, making it a popular photo spot, and both the End of the World Museum and Museo Yámana are just a five-minute walk away. Beagle Channel boat tours also depart from here.

HoursOpen 24 hours, free admission

Location우수아이아 시내 해안가 (Avenida Prefectura Naval Argentina)

TipsVisit around sunset to capture great photos of the docked ships against the evening sky.

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★ 4.6

Glaciar Vinciguerra

The trek begins in the Andorra Valley, about a 30-minute drive from downtown Ushuaia, and covers a demanding 9-13 km round trip taking 6-9 hours. The route crosses peat bogs and lenga forest, passing Laguna de los Témpanos (Iceberg Lagoon) before reaching the glacier itself. Guided tours cost roughly ARS 60,000-90,000 per person; waterproof boots and prior trekking experience are recommended due to the slippery wetland sections.

HoursTrekking season December-March, departures around 8:00 AM

LocationValle Andorra (우수아이아에서 북쪽 약 8km)

TipsThis is a physically demanding route, so go with a guide and allow a full day in your schedule.

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★ 4.4

Puerto Almanza

This tiny village of about 100 residents sits on the Beagle Channel shore roughly 75 km east of Ushuaia. It's about a 1.5-hour drive via provincial routes J and K, and there's no entrance fee to the village itself. Six restaurants operate here, including Puerto Pirata and La Mesita de Almanza, where a plate of freshly caught centolla (king crab) typically costs around ARS 15,000-25,000.

HoursRestaurants generally operate around 12:00-20:00; the village itself is open at all times

LocationBahía Almirante Brown, Canal Beagle (우수아이아에서 동쪽 약 75km)

TipsFishing boats only go out in good weather, so it's worth checking with a restaurant ahead of time to confirm king crab availability.

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★ 4

Antigua Casa de Gobierno

Located at Avenida Maipú 465, this building was declared a National Historic Monument in 1983 and has served as an annex of the End of the World Museum since 2008. Admission is covered by the museum's combined ticket (around ARS 3,000), and highlights include artifacts from the 1930 wreck of the steamship Monte Cervantes. Just in front, Plaza Cívica 12 de Octubre features an obelisk marking the spot where the Argentine flag was first raised in Tierra del Fuego.

HoursMon-Fri 09:00-19:00, weekends 10:00-14:00 (per the museum's combined hours)

Location우수아이아 시내 (Avenida Maipú 465)

TipsIt's included with the End of the World Museum's main ticket, so keep that ticket handy for entry.

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★ 4.6

Bahía Lapataia

Located at the southern edge of Tierra del Fuego National Park where it meets the Beagle Channel, Lapataia Bay is famous for its signpost marking "3,063 km" from Buenos Aires, making it a popular photo spot. Entry is covered by the park admission fee (roughly ARS 12,000-18,000 for foreign visitors), and it's about a 40-minute drive from downtown Ushuaia. Well-maintained short trails circle the bay, offering easy walks past canoe launch points and beaver habitats.

HoursDaily 08:00-20:00 (varies by season, same as national park hours)

LocationTierra del Fuego National Park 남쪽 끝 (우수아이아에서 남서쪽 약 20km)

TipsThe line for photos at the Route 3 end sign can get long, so visit early in the morning.

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Things to Do in Ushuaia

Nature

Beagle Channel Cruise

Sail the Beagle Channel to spot Magellanic penguins, sea lions, and seabirds. The 'Lighthouse at the End of the World' (Les Eclaireurs) is the cruise highlight amid majestic Patagonian scenery.

Price ARS 30,000-60,000Duration About 2.5-3 hours

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Adventure

Tierra del Fuego National Park Trekking

Hike the coastal trail and Lapataia Bay in the world's southernmost national park. Walk through sub-Antarctic forest, glacial lakes, and peat bogs, and snap a photo at the 'End of Route 3' sign.

Price Park admission ARS 7,000Duration About 4-6 hours

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Adventure

Martial Glacier Trek

Trek to the Martial Glacier behind Ushuaia. A chairlift takes you partway up, then about an hour's hike reaches the glacier with panoramic views of the Beagle Channel and the city below.

Price Chairlift ARS 5,000 + trekking freeDuration About 3-4 hours

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Tour

End of the World Train Ride

Ride a restored steam train along the old prisoner transport route through sub-Antarctic forest and waterfalls to the entrance of Tierra del Fuego National Park. Onboard narration covers the region's history.

Price Tourist class ARS 20,000Duration About 1.5 hours

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Nature

Kayaking & Paddleboarding on the Beagle Channel

Paddle a sea kayak or SUP on the Beagle Channel, approaching sea lion colonies up close. Experience Patagonia's coastline and snow-capped peaks from the water.

Price ARS 20,000-40,000Duration About 2-3 hours

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Adventure

Lago Escondido 4WD Tour

Cross Garibaldi Pass (430m) by 4WD to visit the emerald Lago Escondido and Lago Fagnano hidden in the Andean forest. Enjoy panoramic views, trout fishing, and a barbecue by the lake.

Price ARS 30,000-60,000Duration About 7-8 hours

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Must-Try Food in Ushuaia

Centolla (King Crab)

🍱 Traditional

King crab caught in Patagonian waters — Ushuaia's signature seafood dish. ARS 15,000-40,000 per serving. Try Volver or Kaupé restaurants near the harbor.

Chocolate Caliente

🍵 Drink

A rich Argentine hot chocolate that takes the chill off the world's southernmost city. ARS 2,000-5,000 per cup. Try cafes along San Martín Street.

Merluza Negra (Patagonian Toothfish)

🍱 Traditional

Premium grilled Patagonian toothfish, prized for its tender, buttery texture. ARS 10,000-25,000. Available at harbor-side restaurants.

Cordero Patagónico

🍱 Traditional

Patagonian lamb slowly roasted over open flames on a cross-shaped spit — a regional tradition. Smoky and incredibly tender. ARS 12,000-30,000 per serving. Try La Estancia or Chez Manu near the harbor.

Centolla Empanada

🍢 Street Food

Empanadas stuffed with Ushuaia's signature king crab meat — crispy outside, sweet and savory inside. ARS 2,000-4,000 each. Available at bakeries and restaurants on San Martín Street.

Calafate Berry Ice Cream

🍰 Dessert

Purple ice cream made from calafate berries, a Patagonian wild fruit. Legend says eating calafate means you'll return. ARS 1,500-3,000 per scoop. Try Laguna Negra on San Martín Street.

Trucha (Trout)

🦞 Seafood

Grilled or oven-baked trout from Tierra del Fuego's pristine rivers and lakes, served with lemon butter sauce — a Patagonian freshwater specialty. ARS 8,000-18,000. Try at Kaupé restaurant.

Ushuaia Travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Ushuaia?

November-March (the southern hemisphere summer) is the best time, and daylight hours are longest in December and January, making it great for activities.

How much does it cost to travel in Ushuaia?

Daily budget around $85-180 (accommodation $45-105; food $20-35; tours and activities $20-35).

How do I get around in Ushuaia?

About 10 minutes from Ushuaia Airport to downtown by taxi. It's a small town, so walking and taxis are enough to get around. SIM cards available at the airport and in town (Movistar). Cards accepted at restaurants and hotels; cash recommended for small tour operators. Tipping 10%.

Do I need a visa to visit Ushuaia?

Korean passport holders can stay visa-free for up to 90 days.

Is Ushuaia safe for tourists?

A very safe small town. For outdoor activities, prepare windproof and waterproof gear for rapidly changing weather.

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