It’s recommended to arrive in Ushuaia at least a day before your Antarctica expedition departs, and why wouldn’t you? The city in the far-south of Argentina is surrounded by unbelievable alpine scenery, picturesque waterways and fascinating museums.
If we had a few days to spend in town, here’s what we’d do.
Tierra del Fuego National Park
Where is it? 12km from Ushuaia
What to do there: Trek glaciers, go on alpine hikes, visit lagoons
For a little taste of Patagonia’s incredible mountain landscapes, Tierra del Fuego is the perfect day trip. It’s only a 25 minute drive from Ushuaia to the park entrance and guided trips can be booked for half or full-day adventures.
Beagle Channel cruise
Where is it? Ushuaia sits on the channel’s northern coast
What to do there: See beautiful scenery and wildlife
A 240-kilometres channel separating Argentina and Chile in the far southern Tierra del Fuego archipelago, the Beagle Channel is surrounded by mountainous landscapes and is home to lots of wildlife. Get your sealegs ready for the main event on a half- or full-day cruise where you’ll have the chance to see fur seals, dolphins, penguins and plenty of birdlife.
Martial Glacier
Where is it? 7km from Ushuaia
What to do there: Hiking, sledding, skiing (winter)
Where else in the world can you pop over to a glacier in just 15 minutes? Sitting just northwest of Ushuaia, Martial Glacier will bring you 1000m above sea level and snow is pretty much ever-present. Guided treks can offer incredible views of the glacier and Ushuaia town from above.
Laguna Esmeralda
Where is it? 19km from Ushuaia
What to do there: Hiking
Hiking to this picturesque mountain lagoon is one of the most popular tracks for visitors to the southern city. Along the way you’ll pass by peat bogs and alpine forests before arriving at the turquoise lagoon surrounded by mountains. It’s not within the national park, so no fees are required to walk the 9km trail. There’s shuttle busses available from Ushuaia, too, which will likely be cheaper than taking a taxi or hiring a car.
Ushuaia Maritime Museum
Where is it? In Ushuaia
What to do there: Learn about Ushuaia’s seafaring past
Housed in the former prison governor’s residence, this museum provides a fascinating glimpse into Ushuaia’s maritime history. From its early indigenous inhabitants to the Antarctic expeditions of European explorers, it’s an opportunity to learn about Ushuaia’s past and the region’s significance as a naval base. Exhibits include historical artefacts, interactive displays, and informative panels detailing the exploits of daring explorers like Captain Robert FitzRoy and the HMS Beagle. The museum also includes sections on the history of the Presidio and its infamous inmates.
Museo del Fin del Mundo
Where is it? In Ushuaia
What to do there: Learn about Ushuaia’s natural history and indigenous inhabitants
Offering a completely different experience to the maritime museum, Museo del Fin del Mundo focuses on the history and culture of the Tierra del Fuego region and the indigenous Yámana people. Exhibits include artefacts, photographs, and dioramas that provide insight into the region’s past. The museum also houses a significant collection of maritime artefacts, reflecting Ushuaia’s importance as a port city.
Train to the End of the World
Where is it? Departing station is about 10km from Ushuaia
What to do there: Take in the scenery from the train windows
The Southern Fuegian Railway, also known as the “Train to the End of the World,” is an unbelievable journey through the stunning landscapes of Tierra del Fuego. Originally built to transport prisoners to the Presidio for logging work, the train now serves as a tourist attraction, taking wide-eyed travellers past soaring mountains, glaciers and picturesque bays.
Scenic flights over the Andes
Where is it? Departures from Ushuaia airport, but hotel pick-up is often available
What to do there: See Ushuaia from above
From seeing shipwrecks from above to landing atop the snowcapped Andes, helicopter rides can get you an experience that no other tour can. While there are different routes you can take, trips through the national park and out toward remote islands offer extra-special experiences.
Shop for warm gear
Whether it’s because you forgot something or want to snag a deal, Ushuaia is actually a great place to go shopping before boarding your ship. The entire Tierra del Fuego island is actually exempt from paying VAT (value added tax), meaning you may find things are cheaper here.
