Discover Ushuaia, often referred to as the “End of the World,” is the southernmost city in the world, located on the southern coast of Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego archipelago. Surrounded by the Martial Mountains and the Beagle Channel, it offers stunning natural landscapes, including snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and deep blue waters. Ushuaia is a gateway to Antarctica and a hub for outdoor adventures such as hiking, skiing, and wildlife watching. The city’s unique charm comes from its remote location, vibrant local culture, and rich history, including its past as a penal colony.
Day 1: Welcome to Ushuaia – Explore at Your Own Pace
Arrival and Day at Leisure
Upon your arrival at Ushuaia airport, we’ll transfer you to your chosen hotel. After settling in, you’re free to explore the city and its surroundings at your leisure.
Ushuaia, a small and walkable town, was named “Ushuaia” by its original inhabitants, the Yamanas, meaning “protected bay” in their language. Officially incorporated into Argentina in 1884, it was initially established as a penal colony to secure a permanent Argentine presence in the region.
Recommended Activities in Ushuaia
- Museums: Visit the thematic “Historia Fueguina” Gallery, where over 120 life-size figures vividly recount Ushuaia’s history, or delve into the intriguing stories of notorious criminals at the Prison Museum.
- Dining: Ushuaia is renowned for its seafood. Be sure to try centolla (king crab) and savor the delicious Blake Hake at the town’s various eateries.
Day 2: Hiking and Paddling in Tierra del Fuego National Park
Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park
Today, we’ll pick you up from your hotel for a 10-hour adventure in Tierra del Fuego National Park, located just 7.4 miles from Ushuaia and bordering the Beagle Channel. Prepare for a rewarding day of hiking!
Upon reaching Ensenada Bay, take in the stunning views of the Beagle Channel before embarking on a coastal hike. This 4-mile trail reveals native flora, wildlife, and artifacts from the Yamanas, the original inhabitants. After a 3-hour hike, you’ll arrive at Lake Roca, where a picnic lunch will be served.
Following lunch, enjoy a 1.5-hour paddling excursion on the Lapataia River (available for children aged 5 and up). Paddle to Lapataia Bay, where the Panamerican Highway and National Route 3 end in a breathtaking landscape. After soaking in the serene beauty, we’ll return you to your hotel for a restful evening.
Day 3: Beagle Channel Cruise
Sail the Beagle Channel
Embark on a 4-hour Beagle Channel cruise, retracing the route of Charles Darwin’s 1833 voyage. Board a comfortable boat at the downtown pier, with room for up to 26 passengers. As you sail, enjoy the panoramic views of Ushuaia Bay, with Argentina on one side and Chile on the other.
The cruise takes you to the iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Along the way, spot diverse marine wildlife, including cormorants and fur seals, and enjoy close-up views of Ushuaia’s natural beauty. Disembark at Bridges Island to explore its vegetation and the archaeological remains of the Yamanas, guided by a bilingual expert.
Warm up with endless hot cocoa and cookies or try traditional maté tea. After returning to port, you can either head back to your hotel or relax at a local café or brewery with an amber craft beer and a traditional Patagonian appetizer.
Day 4: Hiking to the Emerald Lagoon
Trek to the Emerald Lagoon
We’ll pick you up at your hotel and drive to the starting point of today’s hike. Traverse through a forest and swampy areas (rain boots recommended). The Emerald Lagoon lies at the base of the Ojo de Albino glacier, nestled between Cerro Bonete and Cordón Toribio. The vibrant emerald waters, copper-red peat bogs, and the surrounding ochre, green, and brown hues create a stunning visual display.
On the return journey, explore the forest, crossing rivers and streams before enjoying a meal of snacks and lentil stew with Patagonian red wine in a cozy cabin overlooking the Tierra Mayor Valley at sunset. We’ll then transport you back to your hotel.
Day 5: Departure
Transfer to the Airport or Bus Station
At the designated time, we’ll transfer you to the airport or bus station for your onward journey. This concludes your 5-day adventure in Ushuaia. If you’re interested in exploring more of Argentina, check out our recommended travel itineraries.
Other Activities to add to your trip:
- 4WD Adventure Lago Escondido and Fagnano
- E-bike Estancia Tunel
- E-bike Cascada Beban
- Canoas experience
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