Ushuaia Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Tips

Ushuaia is called the “End of the World.” It is the southernmost city on Earth. You will find it on the Beagle Channel, at the tip of Tierra del Fuego in Argentina. Snowy mountains, forests, and the sea surround this unique place.

The name “Ushuaia” comes from the Yámana people and means “bay that goes west.” Today, Ushuaia is a hub for travelers, adventure seekers, and cruises to Antarctica.

Things to Do in Ushuaia

There are many exciting things to see and do in Ushuaia. Here are some of the best:

Take a boat trip on the Beagle Channel – We joined a tour and saw sea lions, seabirds, and islands. The view of the snowy peaks from the water was breathtaking.
Visit Martillo Island – Our journey took us 2½ hours into the Atlantic. Walking among Gentoo penguins was a powerful and emotional experience. It felt magical to see them so close in their natural home.
Ride the Train to the End of the World – A historic train that once carried prisoners, now takes travelers through forests and valleys.
Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park – We visited the southernmost national park in the world. Snow-covered trees, quiet lakes, and wild animals made it feel like we had reached the true edge of Earth.
Hike the Martial Glacier – A short trip from the city, this glacier gives stunning views of Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel.
Ski at Cerro Castor – Known as the southernmost ski resort, perfect for winter sports.
Visit museums – The Maritime Museum and the End of the World Museum share the rich history of Ushuaia.

Best Time to Visit Ushuaia

Summer (December to March): Longer days, mild weather, hiking, boat trips, and cruises to Antarctica.
Winter (June to September): Snow sports like skiing, snowboarding, and dog sledding.

We chose winter for our trip. It was cold, but surprisingly temperate for being only 500 miles from Antarctica.

How to Get to Ushuaia

By Air: Daily flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia International Airport.
By Sea: Cruises to Antarctica and Patagonia often stop here.
By Road: Ruta 3 is the only highway that reaches Ushuaia by land.

Food in Ushuaia

Food in Ushuaia is a highlight of the trip. Some must-try dishes are:

King crab (centolla) – We tried this famous local dish one night, paired with Argentine wine. It was unforgettable.
Patagonian lamb – Slow roasted, tender, and full of flavor.
Trout and fresh seafood – Caught straight from the Beagle Channel.
Dulce de leche ice cream – Sweet and creamy, a perfect way to end dinner.

Where to Stay in Ushuaia

You can find many places to stay, from luxury to budget:

Luxury: We stayed at Los Cauquenes Resort & Spa, located right on the Beagle Channel. Relaxing in the spa with ocean views felt like being at the edge of the world.
Mid-range: Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa, set high in the mountains with panoramic views.
Budget: Cabins and hostels for travelers and backpackers.

Travel Tips for Ushuaia

Currency: Argentine peso.
Language: Spanish, but English is spoken in tourist areas.
Clothing: Bring layers and waterproof gear. Weather changes quickly.
Shoes: Strong walking shoes are a must for hikes and outdoor trips.

Why Visit Ushuaia?

For us, Ushuaia was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. One day we were walking with penguins, the next exploring a national park, and later unwinding at a spa by the sea. The city feels remote yet welcoming, and every meal tasted like a discovery.

Ushuaia is more than the “End of the World.” It is the start of an unforgettable adventure.

Learn more at www.turismoushuaia.com