Tucked away at the bottom of Argentina is a little city named Ushuaia, otherwise known as ‘the end of the world’. Famed for being the southernmost city in the world and a port for exertions to Antarctica. Despite it’s peaceful atmosphere, there are still plenty of things to do in Ushuaia. From exploring the beautiful Tierra del Fuego national park, to my personal favourite: visiting the penguins.
1. Visit Tierra del Fuego National Park
Tierra del Fuego National Park is one of Argentina’s most stunning natural treasures. Just a short drive from Ushuaia, the park is a paradise for nature lovers. With its rugged mountains, dense forests, and windswept coastlines, it’s perfect for hiking, wildlife spotting, and soaking in spectacular landscapes.
There are several ways to get to the park:
• Car Hire: Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore the park at your own pace. Expect to pay around ARS 60,000-90,000 per day depending on the car model and company.
• Taxi: A taxi ride from Ushuaia to the park costs roughly ARS 40,000-70,000 each way.
• Bus: Buses to the park depart every hour from Ushuaia’s main bus station, with the return buses leaving at 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM, and 7:00 PM. A round-trip bus ticket costs approximately ARS 30,000.
• The End of the World Train: While this scenic ride through the park is popular, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it due to its high cost (around ARS 90,000 per person). The train offers nice views, but the real jaw-dropping scenery lies within the park itself, where you can explore by foot.
2. Mail a Letter from the End of the World Post Office
For a quirky, memorable experience, don’t miss the chance to mail a postcard from the End of the World Post Office. Located within Tierra del Fuego National Park, this post office is the last place you can mail a letter from before you hit Antartica.
The man whose worked here for many years not only manages the post office, but has also declared the area its own province, named “La Provincia de la Tierra del Fuego.” Visitors can purchase a Tierra del Fuego passport, which you can also purchase stamps and stickers for. It’s a small but enjoyable stop that makes for a perfect souvenir.
3. Ride the Beagle Channel and Visit the Penguins
A trip to Ushuaia wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the Beagle Channel, the narrow waterway that separates Argentina and Chile. A boat ride across the Beagle Channel offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and rocky shores.
Many boat tours in the Beagle Channel will take you to Isla Martillo, which is home to the Magellanic penguins and Gentoo penguins colonies. You aren’t able to step off the boat but you can watch them waddle around, dive for fish, and play with each other. The best time to see them is between November and March, when they are breeding and nesting but they’re almost always around.
4. Hike to Laguna Esmeralda
For those seeking a more active adventure, hiking to Laguna Esmeralda is a must-do. This stunning glacial lake is located just outside Ushuaia and offers a relatively easy and rewarding hike. The trail is about 9 kilometers (5.5 miles) round-trip and takes around 4–5 hours to complete.
The hike takes you through lush forests, over small streams, and across rugged terrain, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The lake itself is a beautiful turquoise color, nestled in a valley surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers. It’s a serene and peaceful spot, perfect for relaxing and taking in the beauty of Tierra del Fuego.
5. Explore the Martial Glacier
For an extra touch of adventure, head up to the Martial Glacier, located just a short distance from Ushuaia. The glacier is accessible by a 5-kilometer hike or by taking a chairlift to the top of the mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, the Beagle Channel, and the surrounding landscapes.
In winter, Martial Glacier becomes a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding, but in the summer months, it’s a fantastic place to enjoy a hike with views of the glacier’s icy blue hues and the dramatic peaks that surround it. If you’re a fan of unique landscapes and a bit of extra exercise, this hike is perfect for you.