Ushuaia, Argentina: Explore the World's Southernmost City
Nestled at the southern tip of Argentina, Ushuaia is a charming town set on a bay between the Beagle Channel and the glacial peaks of Cerro Martial and Monte Olivia. Fondly known as El Fin del Mundo (The End of the World), it is the gateway to Antarctica and offers stunning landscapes that are hard to find elsewhere. Despite its small population of 60,000, Ushuaia boasts a cosmopolitan feel and an active outdoor lifestyle.
Tourism is the heart of the town, with a variety of hotels, restaurants, and shops along Avenida San Martin, the centre of Ushuaia’s nightlife. Once a penal colony and naval base, the city has grown into a thriving destination, with industries like fishing, tourism, and manufacturing shaping its modern landscape. Many historical buildings have been restored, giving Ushuaia a unique character.
Why Visit Ushuaia?
Ushuaia is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. It is the perfect base for exploring Tierra del Fuego National Park, with activities such as hiking, and wildlife watching. With its beautiful scenery, rich history, and proximity to Antarctica, Ushuaia offers a truly unforgettable experience.
Argentina
-3 hours
Peso (ARS)
Beagle Channel
When is the best time to go to Ushuaia?
About Ushuaia and its surrounding areas
Ushuaia is a compact city, perfect for exploring on foot. Most hotels are just a short walk from the main street, Avenida San Martin, which is the heart of the town, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafés. In summer, the town buzzes with visitors, including travellers and cruise passengers, creating a lively atmosphere. While some hotels are located outside the town centre to offer dramatic views of the surrounding landscapes, taxis are affordable and readily available for easy travel.
Things to Do and See in Ushuaia:
- Tierra del Fuego National Park: Enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, and stunning landscapes in Argentina’s southernmost national park.
- Laguna Esmeralda: A stunning turquoise glacial lake near Ushuaia, Argentina, surrounded by forests and mountains. It's accessible via a scenic 2-3 hour hike, offering breathtaking views of Patagonia's natural beauty.
- Beagle Channel: Take a boat trip to explore the channel and spot local wildlife, such as sea lions, penguins, and birds.
- Martial Glacier: Hike or take a chairlift for breathtaking views of Ushuaia and the surrounding mountains.
- Museo Marítimo y del Presidio: Learn about Ushuaia's history as a penal colony and explore maritime exhibits.
- Whale Watching: Go on a boat tour to spot Southern Right Whales between May and October.
Ushuaia Highlights
Discover Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city. Explore stunning landscapes, glaciers, and wildlife in Tierra del Fuego, take a Beagle Channel cruise, and experience the gateway to Antarctica.
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Ushuaia Travel FAQs
How do I get to Ushuaia, Argentina?
Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world, located at the tip of Argentina in Tierra del Fuego. The easiest way to reach it is via a domestic flight from Buenos Aires, which takes around 3.5 hours. There are also seasonal flights from El Calafate, making it easy to include in a broader Patagonia itinerary.
How many days should I spend in Ushuaia?
We recommend 2 to 3 days in Ushuaia to explore Tierra del Fuego National Park, enjoy a cruise along the Beagle Channel, and take in the unique end-of-the-world atmosphere. For those embarking on an Antarctic cruise, you may wish to add extra nights to relax before or after your voyage.
Is Ushuaia worth visiting?
Absolutely — Ushuaia offers spectacular landscapes, with snow-capped mountains, fjords, and remote forests. It’s the ideal base for wildlife viewing, soft adventure, and scenic exploration. Known as the “End of the World,” it’s a must-visit for anyone travelling through southern Patagonia or heading to Antarctica.
What can I do in and around Ushuaia?
Top highlights include visiting Tierra del Fuego National Park, sailing the Beagle Channel to spot sea lions and penguins, riding the End of the World Train, and learning about the region’s indigenous and maritime history at local museums. In winter, Ushuaia also offers snow sports like skiing and dog sledding.
What kind of holiday packages include Ushuaia?
At Latin Routes, we include Ushuaia in many tailor-made Patagonia holidays, often alongside destinations like El Calafate, Torres del Paine, or as a prelude to Antarctica. Whether you're after dramatic scenery, outdoor adventure, or a truly unique location, we’ll design the perfect itinerary for your Ushuaia experience.