Top Things to Do in Ushuaia: Adventure, Nature, and History in Patagonia

Ushuaia, often referred to as the “End of the World,” is located at the southernmost tip of Argentina, nestled on the Beagle Channel in the Tierra del Fuego province. This unique city is surrounded by the majestic Andes mountains, dense forests, and frigid waters, offering an unforgettable mix of history, natural beauty, and adventure.
 

With its distinct setting, Ushuaia is a gateway to both Antarctica and the Patagonian wilderness, making it an unparalleled destination for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and those wanting to experience the extremes of the world.

🧭 Quick Facts

📍 Location: Tierra del Fuego, Argentina

🌍 Altitude: ~ 2 m (6.5 ft)

🛫 Airport: Ushuaia-Malvinas Argentinas International Airport (USH)

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Population: ~ 56,000

❄️ Best Time to Visit: November–March (summer); June–August (winter, for skiing)

🌟 Why Visit Ushuaia?

🌍 Southernmost city in the world

🐧 Wildlife encounters: Penguins, sea lions, and marine birds

🚢 Cruises to Antarctica and the Falkland Islands

🏞️ Mountains, glaciers, and national parks

🏂 Skiing at Cerro Castor

🦅 Opportunities for birdwatching, kayaking, and hiking

🗺️ Top Things to Do in Ushuaia

1. 🚢 Cruise the Beagle Channel

Embark on a boat trip through the Beagle Channel, one of the most picturesque waterways in the world. Cruises often pass by Isla de los Lobos (Sea Lion Island), Isla Martillo (Penguin Island), and Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, providing fantastic wildlife sightings and dramatic views of the mountains.

🐧 Watch penguins and seals up close

📸 Snap photos of Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, nicknamed the “Lighthouse at the End of the World”

2. 🏞️ Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park

This national park is a must-see for nature enthusiasts. Located just outside of Ushuaia, the park is a land of contrasts, featuring pristine forests, glaciers, and mountain lakes. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or just enjoying a peaceful picnic, Tierra del Fuego offers a wide range of outdoor activities.

🥾 Popular hiking trails:

Laguna Esmeralda – A relatively short hike to a stunning turquoise lake

Senda Costera – A coastal path along the Beagle Channel with views of mountains and wildlife

🚣 Kayaking and boat trips on Lago Roca and Lago Fagnano

3. 🏔️ Visit the Martial Glacier

A short distance from the city center, the Martial Glacier offers breathtaking views over Ushuaia, the surrounding mountains, and the Beagle Channel. Visitors can enjoy a chairlift ride to the glacier or opt for a challenging hike for panoramic views.

❄️ In winter, Martial Glacier turns into a skiing and snowboarding area

🚠 The Martial Glacier Chairlift takes you to the base of the glacier for an easy walk to the summit

4. 🚂 Take the End of the World Train

Step aboard the Tren del Fin del Mundo (Train of the End of the World), a historical railway that takes visitors on a scenic ride through the Tierra del Fuego National Park.

🛤️ Journey through Patagonian forests and across rugged landscapes

🚂 The train ride provides insights into the region’s history and indigenous culture

5. 🐧 Visit the Penguins at Isla Martillo

Take a boat trip to Isla Martillo, where you can visit a penguin colony. This island is home to both Magellanic penguins and Gentoo penguins, and the wildlife is abundant.

🦭 Watch sea lions sunbathe on the rocks

📸 Get up close to the penguins on guided tours

6. 🏂 Ski at Cerro Castor

For snow sports lovers, Cerro Castor is the southernmost ski resort in the world. Located just outside Ushuaia, this resort offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities, as well as stunning views of the Andes and the surrounding glaciers.

⛷️ Snow sports, snowshoeing, and snowmobiles

🏞️ Amazing mountain views and long ski runs

7. 🌅 Watch the Sunset at the End of the World

Given Ushuaia’s location on the southern tip of South America, it is one of the best places to witness the sunset. As the sun dips behind the Andes mountains and the Beagle Channel, the landscape comes alive with vibrant colors.

Best spots for sunset:

Mirador del Valle

Bahía Ensenada (Ensenada Bay)

Martial Glacier lookout

8. 🦅 Birdwatching & Wildlife Watching

Ushuaia and its surrounding areas are rich in wildlife, making it an ideal destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Tierra del Fuego National Park: Spot Andean condors, black-necked swans, and other rare species

Cabo San Pablo: Known for its sea lions and migratory birds

🍽️ What to Eat and Drink in Ushuaia

Must-Try Dishes

🍖 Patagonian lamb – Known for its tenderness and rich flavor, it’s a staple in local cuisine

🦑 King crab (Centolla) – A delicacy, especially served in a creamy sauce

🍲 Cordero Patagónico – Lamb stews cooked with local herbs

🧀 Local cheeses – Try regional specialties paired with locally made wines

🍫 Chocolate – Ushuaia is known for its artisan chocolate (similar to Bariloche)

Drinks

🍷 Patagonian wines – Explore the region’s finest wines from the Neuquén and Rio Negro wine regions

🍺 Try local craft beers, which have a growing reputation in the area

🏨 Where to Stay in Ushuaia

💎 Luxury

Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa – Spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and a luxurious spa

Los Cauquenes Resort & Spa – An exclusive, 5-star resort located on the shores of the Beagle Channel

🛏️ Mid-Range

Hotel Alto Andino – Comfortable and affordable, with great city views

Hostería Las Lengas – A cozy, family-friendly hotel with excellent service

💼 Budget

Antártida Hostel – Central, with an affordable and friendly atmosphere

Hopi yoi – A great budget option offering dormitories and private rooms

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Ushuaia

✅ Best for skiing: June–August
✅ Best for cruises to Antarctica: December–March

🛫 How to Get to Ushuaia

✈️ By Air

Direct flights from Buenos Aires (3 hours) and other major Argentine cities

Ushuaia-Malvinas Argentinas International Airport (USH) is 4 km from the city center

🚘 By Car

Ushuaia is accessible by road from Rio Gallegos via National Route 3 (around 12 hours)

🚌 By Bus

Long-distance buses connect Ushuaia with major Patagonian cities like El Calafate and Punta Arenas (Chile)

🗓️ Suggested 3-Day Ushuaia Itinerary

🗓️ Day 1: City & Wildlife

Morning: Visit Museo del Fin del Mundo

Afternoon: Cruise the Beagle Channel and see the penguins

Evening: Dine on Patagonian lamb at a local restaurant

🗓️ Day 2: Adventure & Nature

Morning: Take the End of the World Train

Afternoon: Hike Laguna Esmeralda or explore Tierra del Fuego National Park

Evening: Sunset views from Martial Glacier

🗓️ Day 3: Skiing & Relaxation

Morning: Ski at Cerro Castor

Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing spa treatment at a luxury resort

Evening: Experience the southernmost night sky

🛍️ What to Buy in Ushuaia

🍫 Artisan chocolates

🧣 Woolen scarves and local handicrafts

🍷 Patagonian wines and artisan spirits

🦢 Penguin-themed souvenirs

🌍 Ushuaia vs. El Calafate vs. Bariloche

✅ Final Thoughts: Why Ushuaia is Worth Visiting

Ushuaia offers an unparalleled experience with its rugged beauty, historical sites, and exceptional outdoor adventures. Whether you’re exploring the Beagle Channel, skiing on its southern slopes, or watching wildlife at the “End of the World,” Ushuaia promises to leave a lasting impression on all travelers.