While it is known as the gateway to Antarctica, Ushuaia is much more than just the launch point for Antarctica cruises. Located at the southernmost tip of Argentina, the city is set between the snow-capped peaks of the Andes and the turquoise waters of the Beagle Channel, providing a breathtaking sense of place. Ushuaia is a destination in its own right. A natural wonderland with rich history and culture with unique cuisine offerings, remote beauty and is an adventure-seeker’s paradise.
Regardless of the season, the city offers an abundance of activities that can fill an entire trip. In the Spring and Summer, the region is a paradise for those looking to hike, kayak, or bike through the wild landscapes. Between October to March, the summer in Argentina, Ushuaia also offers an incredible opportunity to visit nearby penguin colonies on Martillo Island, where visitors can see Magellanic and Gentoo penguins up close. While in the winter, the region transforms into a winter wonderland offering great snow conditions and stunning mountain views. Winter sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the nearby Cerro Castor ski resort, Argentina’s southernmost ski destination as well as ice trekking at Martial Glacier and snowshoeing across Tierra del Fuego National Park.
Just a short distance from the city, the Tierra del Fuego National Park is a haven for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Featuring an extensive network of trails nearing 155 miles, visitors can meander through subpolar forests, along lakes and rivers and up to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Beagle Channel. As the country’s southernmost national park, some of the popular trails include the Coastal Trail, the Hito XXIV trail and the Laguna Negra trail, which are marked by lush forests of lenga and coihue trees. The spectacular Ojo del Albino Glacier feeds Laguna Esmeralda (the most popular trail) below, while the Vinciguerra Glacier and Icebergs lagoon is the easiest glacier to reach and the second most popular trekking trail in Ushuaia. While hiking is a primary activity, Tierra del Fuego National Park also offers opportunities for kayaking, wildlife spotting and photography.
A perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and outdoor adventures, the wetlands offer chances to spot local wildlife, such as guanacos, red foxes, the giant woodpecker and the elusive Andean condor. The natural wonderland provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore like Charles Darwin did back in the mid-1800s. A short boat trip along the Beagle Channel (named after Charles Darwin’s HMS Beagle) is a must as it is teeming with wildlife, including sea lions, penguins and a variety of bird species. While learning about the history and ecology of the region, guests can take in the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
Visiting Museo Marítimo y del Presidio (Maritime Museum and Prison Museum) offers visitors to learn how the area was once a penal colony in the late 19th century. The museum also displays the area’s maritime history and its past with indigenous cultures, as well as a comprehensive look at Ushuaia’s evolution into a bustling city. For those further interested in the region’s history, Museo del Fin del Mundo (End of the World Museum) focuses on the indigenous Yamana people who inhabited the area before European settlers arrived. Along with exhibits about the flora, fauna and early explorers of Tierra del Fuego, visitors can get a glimpse into their way of life.
“THIS EXTRAORDINARY DESTINATION IS NOT JUST A STOP ON THE WAY TO ANTARCTICA, IT IS A MUST-VISIT DESTINATION IN ITS OWN RIGHT.”
Just as unique as its location, the cuisine in Ushuaia is inspired by its maritime environment and Patagonian roots. Ever present on menus, visitors can dine on fresh seafood, especially king crab, local fish such as merluza negra, mussels and oysters from the Beagle Channel, while some restaurants in Ushuaia offer local delicacies, such as Fuegian lamb. Often slow-cooked or roasted over an open flame, Cordero Fueguino (Patagonian Lamb from Tierra del Fuego) is a dish which reflects the traditional gaucho (Argentine cowboy) culture of the region. For a truly memorable experience, consider dining at one of the restaurants with views of the Beagle Channel, like Chez Manu which boasts a French-inspired menu using fresh, local ingredients from Patagonia and amazing views to the stunning natural landscape beyond.
This extraordinary destination is not just a stop on the way to Antarctica, it is a must-visit destination in its own right. Offering a unique mix of natural beauty, rich history, and unforgettable experiences, Ushuaia provides the perfect base to explore Argentina’s remote and breathtaking southern landscapes.
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