Snapshot: Ushuaia

June 30, 2021

Often called the adventure capital of Argentina, Ushuaia is widely known as the southernmost city in the world

If you’re the adventurous sort, chances are high that the Argentine province of Tierra del Fuego is on your bucket list. Ushuaia, its bustling capital city, serves as a gateway to the Tierra del Fuego National Park and Lapataia Bay, as well as a port for travellers heading on to Antarctica. With a growing population of 70,000 people, Ushuaia is by far the most populous urban centre in this area, and in recent years, has become a booming tourist destination in its own right.

The bustling Ushuaia port where boats come and go against the backdrop of the mountain.
The bustling Ushuaia port where boats come and go against the backdrop of the mountain.

Ushuaia is more than a stopover to Antarctica – it tells the tale of the indigenous Yámana people, European colonisation, early explorers, and the establishment of a prison colony in the early 20th century. In the native Yámana language, Ushuaia means 'bay looking west.' Other tribes who lived in the area include the Onas, Haush, and the Alakalufs – all notable hunting and fishing cultures; it was the Yámanas’ lit bonfires that inspired Ferdinand Magellan to name Tierra del Fuego the 'land of fire.'

Most visitors are keen to grab the coveted ‘end of the world’ penguin passport stamp at the Ushuaia tourist office. Other iconic sights are the red-and-white Les Eclaireurs lighthouse, the “end of the world, beginning of everything” sign at the harbour, and of course, crowds of Magellanic and gentoo penguins on the smaller islands around the coast. Hanging around Ushuaia’s local bars and restaurants often involve overhearing exciting stories from those recently returned from Antarctica.

The picturesque Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, Argentina.
The picturesque Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, Argentina.

Things to do

Thanks to its convenient spot between the Andes and the Beagle Channel, there’s plenty to do in and around Ushuaia, including skiing (including cross-country), wildlife viewing, dog sledding, golf, sailing, scuba diving, and of course, trekking and hiking. There are also several museums dedicated to the history of Tierra del Fuego, its flora and fauna, and its people. The Train of the End of the World is a popular historical attraction, based on the original prison train from the turn of the century, which takes about an hour along the Rio Pipo valley. If you’re limited by time, take a day hike up the Martial Glacier, which offers panoramic views of the city and the Beagle Channel. There are also some beautiful half-day boat tours that offer stunning views of the mountains, tiny islands, and local wildlife.

A steam train moves through a snow-covered woodland.
A steam train moves through a snow-covered woodland.

Things to eat

Due to its remote location, the cost of living in Ushuaia can be a little pricier than other Argentine cities. However, don’t be discouraged as Ushuaia is home to an incredible local selection of seafood. Must-try dishes are fresh centolla (king crab), regional merluza negra (sea bass), and cholgas (mussels). Patagonian fueguino lamb is also a popular option, cooked over a traditional iron grill or parrilla. Vegetarians can find tasty seasonal fare at more contemporary restaurants, though vegans might want to bring their own snacks as they navigate through animal-heavy menus in this part of the world.

Ushuaia also boasts a range of cosy, quaint teahouses, continental cafes, and even an Irish pub with a locally brewed beer. Try a submarino – an Argentinian-style hot chocolate that involves dunking an actual chocolate bar into hot milk.

In Ushuaia, Argentinian sweet treats are enjoyed by locals and tourists in quaint cafes.
In Ushuaia, Argentinian sweet treats are enjoyed by locals and tourists in quaint cafes.

Back to Argentina Tours
Related tours

13 Day Patagonia With Mount Fitz Roy Hike

Travel from: Feb 2025
Travel until: Mar 2025
From
$5,145
 USD
pp twin share

23 Day Inspiring South America with Glacier Experience

Travel from: Mar 2025
Travel until: Dec 2025
From
$8,245
 USD
pp twin share

24 Day Inspiring South America with Uruguay & Estancia Experience

Travel from: Mar 2025
Travel until: Dec 2025
From
$7,445
 USD
pp twin share

31 Day Inspiring South America, Chile & Galapagos Small Group Tour

Travel from: Feb 2025
Travel until: Dec 2025
From
$12,495
 USD
pp twin share
Paired Solo Option

26 Day Inspiring South America & Galapagos Small Group Tour

Travel from: Feb 2025
Travel until: Nov 2026
From
$9,295
 USD
pp twin share

17 Day Antarctica Small Ship Expedition With Iguazu Falls

Travel from: Nov 2025
Travel until: Mar 2026
From
$13,499
 USD
pp twin share

14 Day Antarctica Small Ship Expedition

Travel from: Nov 2025
Travel until: Mar 2026
From
$12,599
 USD
pp twin share
2025-26 Season Released
Book Now for Early Bird Deals

14 Day Highlights Of Antarctica Exploration Cruise

Travel from: Feb 2025
Travel until: Mar 2026
From
$8,549
 USD
pp twin share
2025-26 Season Released
Book Now for Early Bird Deals

31 Day Inspiring South America & Antarctica Exploration Cruise

Travel from: Mar 2025
Travel until: Mar 2026
From
$14,699
 USD
pp twin share
2025-26 Season Released

38 Day Inspiring South America, Galapagos & Antarctica Exploration Cruise

Travel from: Mar 2025
Travel until: Mar 2026
From
$17,895
 USD
pp twin share
Paired Solo Option

27 Day Inspiring South America With Bolivia & Chile Small Group Tour

Travel from: May 2025
Travel until: Nov 2025
From
$9,295
 USD
pp twin share
Paired Solo Option

19 Day Inspiring South America Small Group Tour

Travel from: Feb 2025
Travel until: Dec 2026
From
$5,545
 USD
pp twin share
Loading...
Processing