Ushuaia
Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world, located between the Andes Mountains and the Beagle Channel. Known as the "End of the World" or "Fin del Mundo", it is famous for its amazing landscapes, including glaciers, forests and rugged coastlines.
Visitors can explore Tierra del Fuego National Park, take boat trips on the Beagle Channel, or see penguins at nearby colonies. Ushuaia has a rich history, once home to indigenous people like the Yámana.
It is also a key starting point for Antarctic expeditions, it’s closer to Antarctica than it is to Buenos Aires!
The city’s cold climate makes it perfect for outdoor activities, with summer temperatures around 10-15°C (50-59°F), ideal for hiking and nature tours.
Travel times to Ushuaia
El Calafate
By Plane: ~1.5 hours
By Bus: ~18-20 hours, 930 kmBariloche
By Plane: ~3 hours
By Bus: ~36 hours, 1,600 kmMendoza
By Plane: ~4.5 hoursBuenos Aires
By Plane: ~3.5 hoursSalta
By Plane: ~5.5 hours
Note: Bus routes include ferry crossings and long stops, making them significantly longer.
Beagle Channel tours in Ushuaia are an exciting way to explore the "End of the World." Boats cruise past islands filled with sea lions, cormorants, and even penguins on Martillo Island. You’ll pass the famous Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse and enjoy incredible views of snowy mountains and rugged coasts. Some tours also share the history of early explorers, making this a perfect mix of wildlife, scenery, and adventure in Patagonia!
Beagle Channel tours in Ushuaia come in two options:
Short Tours
Lasting 2-3 hours, these focus on nearby islands, sea lions, cormorants, and the Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse. Great for quick adventures!
I did this tour with Rumbo Sur and also visited a remote island. (+/- 70 USD per person)Long Tours
Last 6+ hours, adding stops like Martillo Island to see penguins or even hiking on remote islands, offering a deeper wildlife and nature experience. (+/- 150 USD per person)
Book your tickets at one of the many shops right next to the Tourist Port.
Please note: The best time to see penguins in Ushuaia is during the austral summer, from November to March, when the weather is warmer and penguin colonies are most active. However, before booking a tour, it's wise to do some research to determine if it's worth paying extra to visit the penguins. Be sure to check if the penguins have already arrived on the islands, as their timing can vary each year.
Another must do is the Laguna Esmeralda hike near Ushuaia, a 9 km round-trip trail through Patagonian landscapes, taking around 3-4 hours to complete. You will pass through dense forests, cross streams and enjoy stunning views of snow-capped mountains.
The lake’s striking emerald color and the surrounding glaciers create a picturesque setting. It’s a moderate-level hike, ideal for those seeking an accessible yet rewarding adventure in Tierra del Fuego's wilderness. This hike is highly recommended.
You can book a taxi to the trailhead (+/- 30 USD) or get on a bus, leaving from the Bus Terminal of Ushuaia. Make sure to check the bus schedules in advance to confirm departure times.
I took a taxi to the trailhead and, after hiking, caught a minivan at the parking lot back to the city for just 8 USD.
Up for a short but beautiful hike?
The Martial Glacier is located on the Martial Mountains just outside Ushuaia. It offers a 5 km trail with varied difficulty, leading to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Beagle Channel and Tierra del Fuego. The glacier is accessible by a chairlift, but many visitors prefer to hike up for a more immersive experience. In winter, it becomes a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding. The area is also known for its incredible wildlife, including diverse bird species.
