Nestled in the southernmost part of Argentina, in the province of Tierra del Fuego, lies the remarkable city of Ushuaia. Known as the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia is often referred to as the place where the world ends—yet this is also where adventures begin. Ushuaia’s striking landscape, with its towering mountains, icy rivers, and stunningly diverse flora and fauna, sets it apart from other destinations, making it a hidden gem for those looking to explore an off-the-beaten-path locale.
Ushuaia: The End of the World
The phrase “the end of the world” might evoke images of a barren, isolated place, but Ushuaia is anything but that. It’s a thriving city that seamlessly combines urban life with untouched wilderness. The city’s location at the southern tip of South America offers some of the most breathtaking views you could ever hope to experience. From snow-capped mountains to icy rivers that snake their way through dense forests, the landscape here feels almost otherworldly.
Visiting Ushuaia is a journey into the wild, far removed from the usual tourist hotspots. It’s a place where nature still reigns supreme and where the natural beauty of the surroundings has remained largely untouched by the hand of man. The city’s allure lies in its ability to surprise visitors at every turn. Whether you are exploring the rugged landscapes, observing the unique wildlife, or simply wandering through the streets of the town, Ushuaia will captivate your senses and transport you to a world that feels both familiar and fantastically distant.
Let’s dive into some of the most unforgettable activities and attractions that make Ushuaia an extraordinary destination.
1. Sail Through the Beagle Channel
No trip to Ushuaia is complete without a voyage through the Beagle Channel. This waterway, named after Charles Darwin’s famous ship, serves as a gateway to some of the most mesmerizing landscapes and wildlife on the planet. It offers an intimate glimpse into the raw beauty of the region, with jagged cliffs rising from the water, dense forests stretching as far as the eye can see, and the icy waters brimming with life.
A typical boat tour will take you past an array of awe-inspiring sights. One of the first things you’ll notice is the unique vegetation that thrives in this extreme environment. From moss-covered rocks to wind-bent trees, the plant life here seems almost alien, yet perfectly adapted to the harsh conditions.
On your journey, you’ll likely spot colonies of seabirds, including cormorants perched on rocky outcrops, their sharp beaks poised to snatch fish from the cold waters below. Shortly after, the boat will bring you closer to one of the highlights of the trip—sea lions. These creatures, which resemble a mix between seals and their larger cousins, can often be seen lounging lazily on the rocks, soaking up the rare moments of sunshine before diving into the frigid sea for a meal.
As you continue your journey, you’ll arrive at the Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse, often referred to as the “Lighthouse at the End of the World.” Standing at just 11 meters tall, its red and white stripes mark it as a beacon in this isolated region, still serving as a guide for ships navigating these dangerous waters. There’s something hauntingly beautiful about seeing this small lighthouse, standing alone against the backdrop of endless sea and sky.
Perhaps the most exciting part of the Beagle Channel tour is a stop at Martillo Island, home to a thriving population of penguins. Watching these little creatures waddle around the island is both heartwarming and fascinating. However, many tours do not allow visitors to disembark on the island, and for good reason. Keeping a respectful distance ensures that the penguins remain undisturbed and continue to thrive in their natural habitat.
While the Beagle Channel tour is not inexpensive, with prices around $67 per person, the experience is more than worth the cost. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see some of the most remote and beautiful places on Earth, and the memories you make here will stay with you forever.
2. Explore the City on a Double-Decker Bus Tour
One of the best ways to get a broad overview of Ushuaia is by hopping on a double-decker bus. Yes, you read that right—Ushuaia, the city at the end of the world, has a double-decker bus tour, just like some of the world’s biggest cities. This vibrant blue bus offers a convenient and affordable way to explore the city’s many sights without the hassle of navigating on your own.
The tour takes you through various parts of the city, offering a mix of historical and scenic stops. One of the first destinations is Laguna del Diablo, a small, mysterious lagoon that has a dark past. Legend has it that animals, both domestic and wild, would disappear when they ventured near the lagoon during the winter months. In reality, many of these animals likely fell through the thin ice, never to be seen again.
Another interesting stop on the tour is the Aeroclub of Ushuaia. Here, visitors can marvel at an old Argentine Navy plane that has been retired from service. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, the Aeroclub also offers tourist flights, allowing you to soar above the city and take in the sweeping views of Ushuaia from the sky.
The bus tour is a fantastic way to see the city at a leisurely pace while learning about its history and culture. Whether you’re interested in the eerie tales of Laguna del Diablo or the breathtaking aerial views from the Aeroclub, the double-decker bus offers a little something for everyone.
3. Step Back in Time at the Prison at the End of the World
Ushuaia’s history as a penal colony is perhaps one of its most fascinating and unsettling aspects. The city was originally established as a place to house Argentina’s most dangerous criminals, far from the rest of society. From 1902 to 1947, the infamous Ushuaia Prison, often called the Prison at the End of the World, served as one of the most feared places in Argentina.
The prison, with its five pavilions, has since been transformed into a museum that gives visitors a chilling glimpse into its dark past. Walking through the cold, narrow corridors, you can almost feel the weight of the history that these walls hold. The stories of the prisoners who were sent here—many of whom were political prisoners or dangerous criminals—are both haunting and intriguing.
The museum is divided into several sections, each focusing on a different aspect of the prison’s history and Ushuaia’s maritime past. One pavilion is dedicated to the Maritime Museum, where you can learn about the ships that braved the treacherous waters of the region. Another pavilion houses the Prison Museum, where exhibits detail the lives of the prisoners who were once locked away in these cells.
For those interested in the Antarctic, there is also the Antarctic Museum, which explores the history of exploration in the region. Additionally, there is a Museum of Marine Art and an art gallery featuring works by local artists.
Visiting the Prison at the End of the World is a sobering but essential experience. It’s a chance to reflect on the harsh realities of life in one of the most remote places on Earth, while also appreciating the resilience of the people who survived here.
4. Experience the Thematic Gallery
Another must-visit attraction in Ushuaia is the Thematic Gallery, a museum that uses dioramas and lifelike statues to tell the story of Tierra del Fuego’s history. This gallery is unique in its approach, using visual storytelling to bring to life the cultures and historical events that have shaped this region.
One of the most captivating exhibits focuses on the indigenous tribes that once inhabited Tierra del Fuego. These tribes, including the Shelk’Nam, Haush, and Yámanas, lived off the land as hunters, fishermen, and survivalists. The Shelk’Nam were known for their impressive archery skills, while the Yámanas were expert canoe builders, navigating the waters of the Beagle Channel with ease.
The Haush tribe, while lesser-known, also played a significant role in the history of the region, though much of their story has been lost to time. The gallery’s exhibits help preserve the memory of these ancient peoples and offer insight into their way of life.
Another section of the gallery explores the colonization of Tierra del Fuego, highlighting the early explorers who braved the harsh conditions to settle in this remote part of the world. The gallery also touches on the more recent history of Tierra del Fuego as a penal colony, providing a comprehensive overview of the region’s development over the centuries.
5. Learn About the Region’s Rich History at the Museum of the End of the World
If you’re looking to deepen your understanding of Ushuaia and its place in the world, the Museum of the End of the World is an essential stop. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Ushuaia and the Tierra del Fuego region, offering visitors a chance to learn about everything from the region’s natural history to its human history.
The museum is divided into two main sections. The first section focuses on the local flora and fauna, offering exhibits on the unique plants and animals that call this region home. You’ll also find stories of shipwrecks, detailing the dangerous conditions that sailors faced when navigating the waters around Tierra del Fuego.
The second section of the museum is housed in the old legislature building and focuses on the political and bureaucratic history of Ushuaia. This section provides insight into how the city has evolved from a penal colony to a modern city, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs that have shaped its development.
Visiting the Museum of the End of the World is a great way to gain a deeper appreciation for the unique history and culture of Ushuaia. It’s a place where the past comes alive, offering visitors a glimpse into the many layers of history that have shaped this remote city at the edge of the world.
6. Take a Scenic Walk Along the Costanera
One of the best ways to soak in the beauty of Ushuaia is by taking a leisurely stroll along the Costanera, a scenic promenade that runs along the waterfront. This walk offers stunning views of the Beagle Channel and the surrounding mountains, as well as a chance to see some of the historic ships that are docked along the shore.
One of the most interesting ships you’ll come across is a British Navy vessel that played a role in the Normandy landings during World War II. After the war, the ship was tasked with towing other vessels that had become trapped in the Beagle Channel, helping them safely reach port. Unfortunately, over time, the ship’s condition deteriorated, and it was eventually abandoned on the shores of Ushuaia, where it remains today as a silent witness to history.
As you continue your walk along the Costanera, be sure to stop by the Ushuaia sign—a popular spot for tourists to snap a photo and commemorate their journey to the southernmost city in the world.
7. Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park
Just 12 kilometers from Ushuaia lies Tierra del Fuego National Park, a stunning natural reserve that offers visitors a chance to experience the wild beauty of the region up close. The park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, from dense forests and rolling valleys to snow-capped mountains and pristine lakes.
One of the best ways to explore the park is by hiking its many trails, which range from easy walks to more challenging treks. Along the way, you’ll encounter breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, as well as opportunities to spot some of the park’s wildlife, including guanacos, foxes, and a variety of bird species.
One thing to keep in mind when visiting Tierra del Fuego National Park is that the weather here can be extremely unpredictable. It’s not uncommon for the weather to change dramatically within a matter of minutes, so be sure to pack layers and be prepared for anything from sunshine to rain to snow.
Despite the challenging weather, a visit to Tierra del Fuego National Park is an unforgettable experience. It’s a place where nature still reigns supreme, offering a sense of freedom and serenity that is hard to find anywhere else.
8. Indulge in Ushuaia’s Unique Cuisine
No trip to Ushuaia would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisine. The city’s food scene is a unique blend of European influences and local ingredients, resulting in dishes that are both familiar and exotic.
One of the most popular dishes in Ushuaia is spider crab, which is often served in a rich seafood casserole. Other local specialties include lamb, fish, and a variety of rice and noodle dishes. The seafood here is particularly fresh, with many restaurants offering brothy rice dishes or pasta dishes topped with generous portions of fish or shellfish.
One dish that stands out is black ravioli, made with squid ink and often stuffed with salmon. This dish is a perfect example of the fusion of flavors that defines Ushuaia’s cuisine—combining the rich, savory taste of seafood with the comforting texture of pasta.
Whether you’re dining at a high-end restaurant or a casual café, Ushuaia’s food scene is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Getting to Ushuaia
Despite its remote location, Ushuaia is relatively easy to reach thanks to its airport, which offers regular flights to and from Buenos Aires. Once you arrive, you’ll find that the city is compact and easy to navigate, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region.
Whether you’re arriving by plane or by sea, Ushuaia’s location at the edge of the world makes it a truly unique destination. It’s a place where the ordinary and the extraordinary coexist, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty and wonder of one of the most remote places on Earth.