Visit Ushuaia, the southernmost city in Argentina
Ushuaia sits at the southern tip of Argentina in Tierra del Fuego, often referred to as the ‘End of the World’. Surrounded by the Martial Mountains and the Beagle Channel, the city offers access to some of Patagonia remote landscapes, combining forests, coastline and mountain scenery in one location.
The region offers a range of experiences, from exploring Tierra del Fuego National Park to sailing the Beagle Channel and spotting wildlife such as sea lions and penguins. Ushuaia is also known as a gateway to Antarctica, making it a key destination for those looking to include remote and expedition-style travel within a wider Argentina holiday.
Why visit Ushuaia, Argentina?
Ushuaia sits at the southern tip of Argentina in Tierra del Fuego, often referred to as the ‘End of the World’. Surrounded by the Martial Mountains and the Beagle Channel, the city offers access to some of Patagonia’s most remote landscapes, where forests, coastline and mountain scenery come together. The region offers a range of experiences, from exploring Tierra del Fuego National Park to sailing the Beagle Channel and spotting wildlife such as sea lions and penguins. Ushuaia is also known as a gateway to Antarctica, making it a key destination for those looking to include remote and expedition-style travel as part of a wider Argentina holiday.
Argentina
-3 hours
Peso (ARS)
Beagle Channel
When is the best time to go to Ushuaia?
About Ushuaia and its surrounding areas
Ushuaia, Argentina is a compact and easily walkable city, making it simple to explore at your own pace. Most hotels in Ushuaia are located close to Avenida San Martin, the town’s main street, where you will find a good selection of restaurants, cafés and shops. This central location makes it a convenient base for exploring Ushuaia and planning excursions across Tierra del Fuego.
During the summer months, Ushuaia has a lively atmosphere, with travellers arriving to explore Patagonia and embark on Antarctica cruises. Despite its remote setting, the town offers a wide range of accommodation, from boutique hotels to luxury lodges with views over the Beagle Channel or surrounding mountains. Properties located just outside the centre provide a quieter setting, while still being easily accessible by taxi or private transfer.
Ushuaia is also the main gateway to some of the most remarkable landscapes in southern Patagonia. From here, you can explore Tierra del Fuego National Park, with its hiking trails, forests and coastal scenery, or take boat trips along the Beagle Channel to see sea lions, penguins and birdlife. Other highlights near Ushuaia include the Martial Glacier, scenic train journeys on the End of the World Train and opportunities for wildlife watching, making it an essential stop on any Patagonia holiday in Argentina.
Things to Do and See in Ushuaia:
- Tierra del Fuego National Park: Explore Argentina’s southernmost national park, with hiking trails, coastal scenery and opportunities for wildlife watching. It is one of the top attractions in Ushuaia and a highlight of any Patagonia holiday.
- Laguna Esmeralda: Visit this striking turquoise glacial lake near Ushuaia, reached by a scenic 2 to 3 hour hike through forests and peatlands. It is one of the most rewarding hikes in Ushuaia and a must for nature lovers.
- Beagle Channel boat trips: Take a guided boat excursion along the Beagle Channel, one of the best ways to experience Ushuaia’s landscapes and spot wildlife such as sea lions, penguins and seabirds.
- Martial Glacier: Head above Ushuaia for panoramic views over the town, mountains and Beagle Channel. Accessible by hiking or chairlift, it offers one of the best viewpoints in Ushuaia, Argentina.
- Museo Marítimo y del Presidio: Discover Ushuaia’s history as a former penal colony and learn about maritime exploration in Patagonia, adding cultural depth to your visit.
- Whale watching in Ushuaia: Between May and October, boat tours offer the chance to see southern right whales in the waters around Tierra del Fuego, making it a rewarding addition to a Patagonia wildlife itinerary.
- Antarctica cruises from Ushuaia: Join an expedition cruise from Ushuaia, the main gateway to Antarctica, for an unforgettable journey to the Antarctic Peninsula, one of the most unique travel experiences in the world.
- Patagonia cruises: Embark on a Patagonia expedition cruise through the fjords and channels of southern Chile and Tierra del Fuego, combining remote landscapes, glaciers and wildlife into one remarkable journey.
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 do you need in Ushuaia?
We recommend spending 2 to 3 days in Ushuaia before or after your cruise to explore Tierra del Fuego National Park, the Beagle Channel and nearby highlights.
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 are the best things to do in Ushuaia?
Top things to do in Ushuaia include visiting Tierra del Fuego National Park, taking a Beagle Channel boat trip, hiking to Laguna Esmeralda and exploring the Martial Glacier.
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.
Where is Ushuaia in Argentina?
Ushuaia is located in Tierra del Fuego, at the southern tip of Argentina. It is the southernmost city in the world and a key destination for Patagonia travel and Antarctica cruises.
What is Ushuaia known for?
Ushuaia, Argentina is known for its dramatic landscapes, including mountains, glaciers and the Beagle Channel. It is also the main gateway to Antarctica and a highlight of Patagonia holidays.
Can you go to Antarctica from Ushuaia?
Yes, most Antarctica cruises depart from Ushuaia. It is the primary starting point for expeditions to the Antarctic Peninsula, making it the best place to begin an Antarctica holiday from Argentina.
How long are Antarctica cruises from Ushuaia?
Antarctica cruises from Ushuaia typically last between 10 and 20 days, depending on the itinerary. Shorter cruises focus on the Antarctic Peninsula, while longer expeditions may include the South Shetland Islands and beyond.
What are Patagonia cruises from Ushuaia?
Patagonia cruises from Ushuaia explore the fjords, glaciers and remote channels of southern Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego, offering access to landscapes that are otherwise difficult to reach. These expedition-style journeys typically sail between Ushuaia and Punta Arenas, navigating through the Beagle Channel and Chilean fjords, with opportunities to see glaciers, wildlife and dramatic coastal scenery.
At Latin Routes, our Patagonia cruises include carefully selected expedition voyages that showcase the very best of this region. These journeys combine guided shore landings, small-ship exploration and expert-led experiences, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in Patagonia’s remote wilderness. Whether travelling from Ushuaia to Punta Arenas or the reverse, these cruises are an ideal addition to a wider Patagonia holiday or Argentina travel itinerary.
When is the best time to visit Ushuaia, Argentina?
The best time to visit Ushuaia is from October to March, during the Patagonia summer, when temperatures are milder and ideal for exploring Tierra del Fuego National Park. Winter months offer snow-covered landscapes and fewer visitors.
Can you combine Ushuaia with other Argentina destinations?
Yes, Ushuaia is often combined with Buenos Aires, Patagonia destinations such as El Calafate and El Chaltén, and Iguazú Falls, creating a diverse Argentina holiday itinerary.
Do you need a visa for Antarctica cruises from Argentina?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. UK passport holders do not need a visa for Argentina for short stays, but Antarctica cruise requirements may vary, so it is best to check in advance.