Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Ushuaia, Argentina

Ushuaia is recognized as the southernmost city globally and serves as the entry point to Tierra del Fuego National Park and Antarctica. With its breathtaking landscapes, a historical penitentiary, harsh winters, and numerous glaciers, Ushuaia offers a wide array of adventurous activities. Originally established as a penal colony, it has transformed into a vibrant tourist destination, presenting an abundance of hiking trails, tours, ski routes, and boat excursions to enhance your experience.

The local cuisine is commendable, featuring traditional Fuegan dishes such as grilled lamb and fresh seafood sourced from the surrounding waters. The region is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to observe sea lions, penguins, dolphins, beavers, and diverse avian species in their natural settings.

Let us delve into the premier activities in Ushuaia:

1. Cruise the Beagle Channel

Embark on a boat tour to explore the iconic landscapes and attractions of the Beagle Channel. Similar to Charles Darwin, you will have the chance to observe various wildlife, passing by Isla de Lobos and Isla de Pájaro to witness sea lions and numerous bird species.

Some fortunate travelers may even spot dolphins and whales during their journey. Additionally, you will pass the Faro Les Eclaireurs, the distinctive red-and-white lighthouse that remains operational.

Certain excursions provide the opportunity to disembark for a walk around Bridges Island, where you can admire the local flora and fauna, as well as the archaeological remains of the Yáamana people.

Long-distance cruises are available that explore Glacier Alley and Cape Horn. Depending on your preference, various modes of transport such as cruise ships, sailing boats, catamarans, and kayaks can be arranged from the docks in Ushuaia.

2. Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego

Recognized for its breathtaking scenery, the Tierra del Fuego National Park features waterfalls, lakes, snow-capped peaks, and glaciers, proudly holding the title of the southernmost national park worldwide. Visitors can indulge in tranquil scenic walks throughout the park or participate in guided tours that provide insight into local wildlife, landscapes, and the ancient Yáamana community that inhabited this area.

You may choose to hike through peat bogs, pause at viewpoints of the Beagle Channel, or ascend Cerro Guanaco. Stroll along the edges of lagoons and rugged beaches on the Seaside Path, or embark on the Hito XXIV trail along Lago Roca’s shoreline, where families often picnic.

Options for kayaking in the lakes or overnight camping at sites like Ensenada, Pipo, and Lago Roca are also available.

3. Estancia Harberton

As the oldest estancia (ranch) in the region, Estancia Harberton was established by an English missionary and continues to be operated by his descendants on a vast 50,000-acre property.

Visitors are invited to take guided tours showcasing the terraced gardens and grazing cattle. If desired, you may opt to spend the night for approximately $300. To reach the estate, travel 40 miles (64 kilometers) from Ushuaia by car or bus, or opt for a boat to observe Isla Martillo’s penguins and Isla de los Lobos’ sea lions along the way.

Enjoy a meal in the tearooms overlooking the Beagle Channel, then explore the rooms of this historic estate.

4. Cerro Castor Ski Resort

For skiing enthusiasts, Cerro Castor Ski Resort, managed by a local family, is renowned for its extended ski season, one of the longest in South America.

With more than 26 trails and several off-piste options, it caters to skiers of all proficiency levels; professional teams often train here as well.

The resort is situated just 16 miles (26 kilometers) from Ushuaia and features modern lifts, excellent infrastructure, and qualified ski and snowboard instructors. There are also dining options available on the mountain, allowing non-skiers to appreciate the stunning views.

5. Isla Martillo

If you wish to witness penguins in their natural habitat, a visit to Isla Martillo is essential, making it one of the unmissable activities in Ushuaia.

Arrange a tour to walk among the colonies of Magellanic and Gentoo penguins residing on this island. Ensure that your boat has the ability to drop you off on the island rather than merely passing by.

You will have the opportunity to approach these smaller penguin species that are generally unbothered by visitors, continuing with their activities as if you are not present. If fortunate, you may also observe baby penguins or even the occasional King penguin.

6. Explore the Town, Drink the Beers

As a bustling tourist town, Ushuaia invites you to stroll through its streets while observing the bustling crowd preparing for their journeys to Antarctica.

Visit the waterfront to admire the fishing boats or relax with a coffee at one of the many charming local cafes. Situated in Patagonia—the heart of Argentina’s craft beer scene—you will find an impressive selection of microbreweries.

Consider visiting Almacen Ramos Generales, a beloved local gathering place featuring an eclectic array of historical memorabilia, literature, and antiques. Indulge in a draft beer—perhaps a cold Beagle served in a unique penguino pitcher—or enjoy a glass of wine while absorbing the vibrant atmosphere.

Casual bites and freshly baked goods are also available.

7. Laguna Esmeralda

Visit this stunning glacial lake, characterized by its striking blue-green hue, via a trek along a muddy trail that leads to its shores. You can conveniently reach the beginning of the trail by car or bus.

The hike is relatively easy, with well-marked trails, meaning you do not require a guide, although preparation for muddy sections and peat bogs is advised.

You will navigate across streams, pass beaver dams, and meander through ancient woodlands on your way. The round trip takes approximately two hours, so consider bringing a picnic (and perhaps a bottle of wine) to relish upon arrival at the lake.

If preferred, you may even carry a tent to camp here and enjoy the tranquility overnight.

8. Tren del Fin del Mundo

As the southernmost railway in the world, the Tren del Fin del Mundo was initially constructed to transport timber to the Ushuaia penitentiary. It has now been transformed into a passenger attraction.

The one-hour journey from the station, located 5 miles (8 kilometers) from the city, leads to the national park. A bilingual guide will enlighten you on the history of the “Convict Train” as you travel across the Pip River, through beech forests, and past the Macarena Waterfall.

The train operates five services daily, enabling you to take the morning train, explore the national park, and return on the evening service. Seating options range from standard tourist class to premium coaches, offering drinks, snacks, and enhanced services.

9. Glaciar Martial

If trekking is your passion, consider this cost-free hike that brings you close to the Martial Glacier, located just outside Ushuaia.

Enjoy splendid views of the city, the surrounding mountains, and the Beagle Channel as you traverse streams and forested areas culminating at the glacier’s base. The hike begins at a tea house where refreshments are available and ascends steeply for approximately four hours.

You may choose to take a taxi to the trailhead or walk from the city, a distance of about 40 minutes, before deciding between the moderate or challenging hiking options.

10. Galería Temática Historia Fueguina

This popular destination is essential for understanding Ushuaia’s history and the realities of life at the world’s end.

Situated within a former prison, the museum offers an engaging audio tour, wax figures, and a path painted on the floor that guides visitors through its exhibits.

Explorers can move between prison cells while learning about the indigenous populations, early settlers, and Antarctic adventurers.

Discover how inhabitants endured the brutal winters, learn about notorious prisoners, and take photos with historical wax figures within their cells. Additionally, the museum features a gift shop, café, and garden worth exploring.

11. Eat An Amazing Meal in Town

Fuegan culinary offerings are abundant, showcasing a variety of seafood from local waters, including sea bass, king crab, octopus, and mussels, alongside traditional grilled lamb and other native ingredients.

From exceptionally fresh seafood to exceptionally Argentine asados filled with top-quality cuts, Ushuaia’s dining scene has much to offer. While dining here may not be inexpensive, the city is home to numerous high-quality restaurants.

If ambiance and scenic views are significant to you, consider dining at coastal establishments such as Reinamora and Kuar.

For refined seafood options, visit Kaupé, while for a diverse selection, try Kalma, Chez Manu, or María Lola. Given their popularity, reservations may be advisable.

12. Paseo de los Artesanos

Located adjacent to the port and the tourist information office, visitors can explore local artisans and vendors showcasing their vibrant creations.

This area serves as a wonderful spot for souvenir shopping or simply for wandering among the 48 stalls featuring an assortment of items, including paintings, woodwork, textiles, leather goods, and ceramics.

Take the opportunity to embrace local artistic styles and possibly observe artisans at work on-site. You will recognize the area by its colorful sign.

13. Bahía Lapataia

If you desire to officially announce your presence at the end of the world, visit Bahía Lapataia for a coveted photo opportunity beside the sign indicating you have reached the end of the Pan-American Highway, alongside the distance to Alaska. Arrive early to avoid crowds eager to capture the same image! Once at the site, you can further explore nearby trails through the forests and along the coast.

This bay and the surrounding fjords, shaped by ancient glacial movements, now offer hiking opportunities along the water’s edge, where you might observe otters, dolphins, and the grassy mounds of mussel shells and bones left by the Yáamana community.

14. Take a Tour to Lago Escondido and Lago Fagnano

To explore these two stunning lakes amidst the southernmost Fuegian Andes, consider joining a tour or driving north of Ushuaia along the Pan-American highway, which traverses peat bogs and beech forests.

Lago Escondido lies at the base of the Garibaldi Mountain Pass, where visitors can engage in enjoyable hiking or fly-fishing. Lago Fagnano, which is considerably larger, straddles the Magellan Fault, with part of it extending into Chile.

Observe beaver dams, capture memorable photographs, pack a picnic, or even camp around these picturesque lakes. Alternatively, guided tours often include stops at strategic viewpoints as part of a full-day experience.

15. Museo Marítimo

Enhance your understanding of the city’s past at the Museo Marítimo, which is composed of four individual museums located within the former prison complex that was decommissioned in 1947. The Maritime Museum, the Marine Art Museum, and the Antarctic Museum are open to public exploration, while the Prison Museum serves as the main attraction.

Ushuaia’s existence can be traced back to its establishment as a penal colony, where many offenders were relocated from Buenos Aires in the early 1900s. Parts of the original prison have been preserved for visitors to discover, shedding light on famous inmates, notorious punishments, and providing insights into life in a frigid prison cell.