27 Top Things To Do In Ushuaia {Best Things To Do At Fin del Mundo}
- Kate Colliety
- Jan 23
- 13 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
What are the best things to do in Ushuaia? Welcome to the end of the world! Where penguins thrive and the icy chill of Antarctica is not too far away. Ushuaia is a city we quickly became infatuated with.
We spent two weeks exploring Ushuaia, its rugged outskirts, and everything that comes with its famous reputation as the Fin del Mundo.
What drew us to Ushuaia was the fact it’s the end of the Pan American Highway (or for us the start) and the most southern city in the world. What we didn’t expect was the vibe, hikes and great adventure tourism on offer.
Ushuaia isn’t just the gateway to the Antarctic, it’s a standalone destination with plenty on offer. After exploring Tierra del Fuego for a couple of weeks we’ve narrowed down our list of top things to do to help you plan your trip. Whether you’re in the city for a couple of days before a cruise or a couple of weeks like us, here are the best things to do in Ushuaia, Argentina.
Contents
Best Hike in Ushuaia - Glacier Vinciguerra
Most Popular Hike in Ushuaia - Laguna Esmeralda
Tierra del Fuego National Park and The Fin del Mundo Train Most Memorable Experience in Ushuaia - HeliUshuaia
4x4 Adventure Either in Your Own Car or On a Tour
Drive to The End of The Ruta J
Take a Photo with the Ushuaia Signs
Souvenir Shopping - The Tourist Box
Best Hike in Ushuaia - Glacier Vinciguerra
Interestingly, one of our favourite hikes in Ushuaia wasn’t in the national park and it wasn’t paid (unlike Laguna Esmeralda). In fact the best hike in Ushuaia is up to Glacier Vinciguerra and Laguna Témpanos - that is if you’re not afraid of mud.
3 hours of walking up will take you up through Fuegian sub-Antarctic forests, along extremely muddy tracks and up to the beautiful Glacier Vinciguerra which reflects in Laguna Témpanos below. The view is worth it but we recommend waiting for good weather if you have the time.
This hike can be completed without a guide (great news if you’re travelling on a budget like us) but if you want an extra experience, with a tour you get to walk on the glacier. This is only possible on the tour as you need a guide and specialist equipment like crampons.
Either way we think this is the best hike in Ushuaia. Overall the hike takes 6 hours but be warned we did get lost. If you plan to hike this trail without a guide check out the AllTrails link here and remember to take the right turning near the beginning (unlike us!) Location 📌
Most Popular Hike in Ushuaia - Laguna Esmeralda
Known as one of the most instagramable spots in Ushuaia, Laguna Esmeralda has become the most popular hike in Ushuaia and although the views are epic, the newly made boardwalk and crowds take away from the experience, for us. That said however, the boardwalk does make this hike more accessible and therefore it’s earned a place on our top things to do list.
It’s shorter than other hikes in the area (4 hours overall), meaning it’s perfect if you’re only passing through Ushuaia on the way to Antarctica but still want to soak up famous views. Location 📌
Cruise the Beagle Channel
Apart from hiking this is the next most popular thing to do in Ushuaia and unlike the hikes you’re going to need a tour for this one.
The Beagle Channel runs between Argentina and Chile, and we enjoyed watching the Antarctic ships set sail along the strait.
The best way to explore this untamed section of the planet is on a half-day cruise. While on the boat you’ll see plenty of wildlife including sea lions, penguins, cormorants as well as the famous red and white lighthouse (Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse) which is synonymous with the end of the world. There’s quite a few cruises to choose from but we recommend this one due to the small group size and chance to do a mini hike during the cruise. Location 📌
Tierra del Fuego National Park and The Fin del Mundo Train
When we entered Tierra del Fuego National Park we unfortunately didn’t have the best weather however here’s a tip. If you have your own camper you can spend up to three nights camping in the park.
This meant although our first day was a wash out we could sleep in the park and enjoy the next two days where we hiked along the coast.
Funnily, when we entered the park we asked the ranger to recommend a hike and he replied with all of them… not helpful. Therefore here are our top three hikes in Tierra del Fuego National Park:
Drive down to the end of the Ruta 3 and enjoy the boardwalks.
The coastal path from the End of the World post office.
Hike up Cerro Guanaco. This is sometimes closed due to bad weather.
If you’re short on time (we think the park is only worth the cost for the three day ticket) or on a budget we both preferred Glacier Vinciguerra which is free.
There is also the Fin del Mundo Train aka the Southern Fuegian Railway. The tracks were built by prisoners in the nearby prison and inside there is a little museum explaining the history. Since 1994, the train has been a tourist attraction allowing visitors to learn about the history while experiencing the views inside Tierra del Fuego National Park. In our opinion the train is a little overpriced (why it’s not got it’s own section in our blog) as it’s super short and you don’t get to see much of the park, but the history side is interesting. Location 📌
You've travelled to the End of the World; now see it like never before. HeliUshuaia's luxury helicopter tours lift you above Tierra del Fuego's dramatic peaks, vibrant lakes, and windswept landscape, revealing Patagonia's untamed beauty from above. Of all the ways to experience Ushuaia: boat tours, hiking, wildlife watching, nothing compares to the perspective from a helicopter, it’s one of the most unique things to do in Ushuaia.
Often in our travels we look for rocking chair stories, things we’ll tell the grandchildren in years to come. This is one of them. Hovering over the Andes, soaking up the snow capped peaks, landing and toasting Champagne at a mountain lake, it’s something that we will always remember and an experience we’d recommend a thousand times over, plus children can join too! Location 📌
4x4 Adventure Either in Your Own Car or On a Tour
If you want to see a side of Ushuaia many tourists never see then exploring Fagnano lake and the surrounding area is for you.
Hidden down gravel tracks and through forest trails are Escondido and Fagnano Lakes. Alongside some pretty epic 4x4 tracks you will see a variety of wildlife and maybe even a beaver (although they are an invasive species here)!
Don't have a 4x4? You'll need to book a guided tour like this one. Got your own vehicle? Much of the route can be self-driven, including some seriously deep water crossings (be warned they're no joke!). Head to Lake Fagnano and follow the tracks around the shoreline.
There's also a free campground by the lake which is one of the best wild camping spots in Ushuaia, and many local battered 2x4s make it here. Location 📌
Walk Among Penguins
You can’t leave the bottom of the world without seeing Penguins! If you're only in Ushuaia then the best place to see them is Martillo Island on a full-day cruise.
The tour, which includes a guide, will take you to the penguin colony where you can walk amongst thousands of Magellanic and Papuan penguins. You'll get the chance to see them up close - just remember to be respectful and take loads of photos!
The full-day tour adds on a sail through the Beagle Channel, so you can double up and complete two things on our top things to do in Ushuaia list in one! Location 📌
Bonus tip for road-trippers: There's a lesser-known penguin colony 4 hours from Rio Gallegos at Cabo Virgenes which is accessible by car where you can observe Magellanic penguins in the wild. Because there are no guides, it's YOUR responsibility to maintain distance (at least 5 meters), never feed or touch them, and leave no trace. This is a privilege - please treat it as such. Location 📌
Drive to The End of The Ruta J
One for the overlanders - drive to the end of the Ruta J. This is apparently the most southern part of South America you can drive to, but if you ask anyone in Chile, they’ll tell you Puerto Williams is further south! Anyway, for bragging rights, especially if you’ve driven from Alaska then it’s worth the journey.
There’s nothing at the end but the views from the road are spectacular. You don’t need 4x4, it’s a gravel track with a few muddy sections, but be warned it's a 3 hour drive to nowhere. Oh and while we’re on roads, you can also drive to the end of the Ruta 3, but this one is inside Tierra Del Fuego National Park and therefore you’ll need to pay the entrance fee. Location 📌
Eat King Crab
Down the Ruta J, an unpaved winding forest track, you'll find the small town of Puerto Almanza, famous for king crab fishing. A row of rustic restaurants line the shore, many offering the unique experience of catching your own crab before it's cooked fresh for you.
We spent Christmas Day in Puerto Almanza soaking up the local vibe and views of the Beagle Channel, but unfortunately the restaurants were closed for the holidays so we missed out on the famous crab. From what locals told us, Puerto Pirata is the spot and the experience of hauling up your own crab trap is as memorable as the meal itself.
If you make it there, let us know in the comments how it tastes! We're planning to go back specifically for this. Location 📌
Museum (Haruwen Distillery)
This one is again for anyone driving down to Ushuaia. The museum is a homage to the famous Pan American Road with information about people who have trodden the path before you. With an impressive selection of motorbikes you’ll often see the bikers parked outside.
The owner also sells gin made in Ushuaia and bonus, the gin sticker had the Pan American Route on… we’re a little nerdy about that. You can also get a stamp… well HALF a stamp of the famous route. The second half you need to collect in Alaska! Location 📌
Patagonia Brewery Co.
Along the front, the stylish wooden building belongs to Patagonia Brewing and is home to some pretty good craft beers, in fact all the beers we had in Argentina were really good! But be warned this place gets busy! Location 📌
Street Art Around Ushuaia
While the town offers the usual things to do such as shopping and restaurants, it also has a strong connection with street art. Wandering around the city you can’t miss some of the more famous murals such as the walking penguins and prisoners… however keep looking as there’s so much more to discover.
Martial Glacier
A famous spot in Ushuaia for skiing and winter sports, but it also offers great hiking opportunities in summer. The trail to the glacier viewpoint takes about 2-3 hours round trip, or you can take the chairlift partway up to save your legs and enjoy panoramic views over Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel.
The hike itself winds through lenga forest before opening up to alpine terrain with stunning glacier views. It's one of the most accessible hikes near the city, perfect if you're short on time or want something less strenuous than Vinciguerra. Location 📌
Take a Photo with the Ushuaia Signs
There’s no shortage of signs in Ushuaia, from the famous gates to the I love sign and the end of the Ruta 3. All Iconic and all worth a photo!
Try Asado
You’re in Argentina… you must try Asado. As you walk past the restaurant windows you’ll see them roasting pig over a flame, delicious and a must!
Souvenir Shopping - The Tourist Box
Surely you’ll want to pick up a souvenir from your time at the end of the world. There’s plenty of shops to browse, lose yourself in and buy from however we recommend the Tourist Box. This one has a selection of different souvenirs all beautiful. We loved it so much we actually bought a handful of stickers, a magnet, postcard and I even found South (The story of Shackleton) in here for Mike’s Christmas Present.
The Tourist Box also has a cafe which sells great Alfajores! Location 📌
Ushuaia Prison Museum (Museo Marítimo y del Presidio)
Ushuaia's old prison is now a fascinating museum showcasing the city's history as a penal colony. You'll walk through actual cell blocks where Argentina's most dangerous criminals were once held, and learn about the harsh conditions they endured. The museum also covers maritime history and Antarctic exploration. It's a bit dark and sobering, but incredibly interesting. Location 📌
Beaver Watching
Beavers were introduced to Tierra del Fuego in the 1940s for fur farming and have since become an invasive species causing significant ecological damage. You'll likely spot beaver dams along rivers and lakes, particularly around Fagnano. It's an interesting (if unfortunate) lesson in the consequences of introduced species.
Ushuaia Bus
When you’re walking around Ushuaia you can’t miss the bright blue ‘London Bus’ trundling around. If you want to learn more about the city then this is a great way to immerse yourself in the history.
The bus makes a circuit around the city with stops at major attractions like the Prison Museum, the port, viewpoints overlooking the Beagle Channel, and the Martial Glacier chairlift base. Audio guides are available in multiple languages, sharing stories about Ushuaia's history as a penal colony, its indigenous peoples, and its role as the gateway to Antarctica. Book here!
Estancia Harberton
Located about 85km east of Ushuaia along the coastal road, Estancia Harberton is the oldest estancia (ranch) in Tierra del Fuego, established in 1886 by British missionary Thomas Bridges.
The working sheep and cattle ranch offers guided tours where you'll learn about the pioneering history of the region and the indigenous Yámana people. The estancia also houses the Acatushún Museum, which has an impressive collection of marine mammal skeletons, including whales, dolphins, and seals found in the Beagle Channel. Location 📌
Ushuaia Marathon
The Fin del Mundo trail happens once a year, and it just so happens we missed it by a week. Our friend Dan did however run this trail and he told us it’s hard. It’s not your usual marathon, it's over mountains, through trails, plus you have to battle with the famous Patagonian winds.
Perched high on the hill overlooking Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel, the Arakur Hotel is home to La Sensación Spa. This is one of the most luxurious spots in the city. Even if you're not staying at the hotel, you can book spa treatments and enjoy the heated indoor pool with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views. Location 📌
Antarctica Cruise
An Antarctica Cruise is one reason many people head to Ushuaia in the first place, although I hope we’ve shown you above there’s so much more to see and do! That said, it definitely deserves a spot on the top things to do in Ushuaia!
Visiting in Winter? Best Things To Do In Ushuaia
Skiing & Snowboarding
Ushuaia is a year-round destination. If you come in the heart of winter, tourism focuses around winter sports including skiing and snowboarding. Cerro Castor is the southernmost ski resort in the world, offering excellent powder and longer seasons than most Southern Hemisphere resorts (typically June through October). Martial Glacier also has smaller ski runs closer to town.
Husky Trekking
Experience the thrill of being pulled through snowy forests by a team of eager huskies, one of Ushuaia's most popular winter activities. Several operators offer tours ranging from short rides to half-day adventures where you can even try mushing yourself. Book here!
Snowshoeing through Tierra del Fuego National Park
In winter, Tierra del Fuego National Park transforms into a snowy wonderland. Snowshoeing lets you explore trails that become inaccessible due to snow.
Best Time To Visit Ushuaia
Summer (December-March) offers the best hiking weather with 17+ hour days and temperatures around 10-15°C. This is peak season, so expect crowds and higher prices.
Winter (June-September) is for snow sports enthusiasts.
Shoulder seasons (October-November, April-May) offer fewer crowds but unpredictable weather and some closed trails/tours.
How To Get To Ushuaia
Ushuaia sits at the southern tip of South America, making it remote but surprisingly accessible. Here are your options:
By Air
Ushuaia Malvinas Argentinas International Airport (USH) is well-connected despite its remote location.
From Buenos Aires direct flights are 3.5 hours
From El Calafate direct flights are 1.5 hours
The airport is just 4km from downtown. Taxis cost around $10 USD, or walk 15 minutes if you're travelling light.
By Bus (Budget Option)
From Punta Arenas, Chile:
12-hour journey through stunning landscapes
Several operators including Buses Pacheco and Tecni-Austral
Costs approximately $40-60 USD
Crosses the Strait of Magellan by ferry (included in ticket)
Runs several times weekly
From El Calafate, Argentina:
11-12 hour journey
Beautiful route through Patagonian steppe
Book with Marga Taqsa or Cootra
Around $50-70 USD
By Rental or Your Own Vehicle
Driving to Ushuaia is an adventure in itself, whether you're in a rental or your own vehicle like us.
The Route:
Ruta 3 runs the entire length of Argentina to Ushuaia
From Punta Arenas: 600km journey (10-12 hours)
Border Crossing: San Sebastián between Chile and Argentina was a really quick and easy border crossing, just remember when coming back into Chile you can't have any fresh produce.
Best Places To Stay In Ushuaia
Top Tips For Travelling Argentina
Travel by Campervan - This is the best way to explore Argentina's vast distances and stunning scenery! .
Pack for All Weather Conditions - From the subtropical north to Patagonian glaciers, Argentina spans multiple climate zones. Layers are essential, and don't underestimate how cold the southern winds can be, even in summer!
Don't Miss Ushuaia - Yes, it's far south, but that's exactly the point! The "End of the World" is worth every mile. The dramatic landscapes, wildlife, and the incredible feeling of standing at the bottom of the continent make it an unmissable experience.
Embrace the Adventure - The locals are passionate, proud people who love sharing their culture. Accept the mate, stay for the asado, and don't be shy about asking locals for recommendations
Travel Tools To Help You Plan
These are some of the travel tools we love and use daily, by booking through our links you support our blog and help us grow, thank you.
Thank you for reading and enjoy your Argentinian adventure. Reach out to us over on Instagram @KateandMikesTravels. We always love to hear from people who read our blogs!
* We were kindly gifted the Helicopter Tour with HeliUshuaia although all opinions are our own.
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