Must-See Natural Wonders and Landscapes

You can find the latest updates on Lonely Planet Ushuaia.

Learn more at Argentina.gob.ar - Turismo.

We recommend starting your trip with the famous national park. It offers a mix of coastal and mountain scenery. The local wildlife is also a major highlight for photographers. You might see foxes, hawks, or even wild horses near the trails.

• Best overall: Tierra del Fuego National Park
• Best for families: End of the World Train
• Best photo spot: Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse
• Best free activity: Saint Christopher Shipwreck

1. Name: Tierra del Fuego National Park
   Type: nature
   Why go: It is the only coastal national park in Argentina. You can see mountains, forests, and sea in one place.
   Best for: hikers and nature lovers.
   Where: 12 km west of Ushuaia city center.
   Time: 4 to 8 hours.
   Cost: Entrance fee required (pay in local currency).
   Getting there: Take a shuttle bus or taxi.
   Tip: Read this Tierra del Fuego National Park guide for trail maps.
2. Name: Beagle Channel
   Type: experience
   Why go: This famous strait separates the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. You will see sea lions and diverse birdlife from the boat.
   Best for: wildlife fans and photographers.
   Where: Departs from the tourist pier in the harbor.
   Time: 3 to 5 hours.
   Cost: Varies by tour type.
   Getting there: Walk to the main harbor pier from downtown.
   Tip: Most Beagle Channel boat tours offer coffee and snacks onboard.
3. Name: Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse
   Type: sight
   Why go: Many people call this the Lighthouse at the End of the World. It is an iconic red and white tower on a small island.
   Best for: photography.
   Where: Located in the Beagle Channel.
   Time: Part of a channel boat tour.
   Cost: Included in most boat excursions.
   Getting there: Reachable only by boat.
   Tip: This is not the lighthouse from the Jules Verne book, but it is the most famous.
4. Name: Laguna Esmeralda
   Type: sight
   Why go: The water has a stunning turquoise color. The trail leads through peat bogs and ancient forests.
   Best for: intermediate hikers.
   Where: 20 km east of the city.
   Time: 4 to 5 hours (round trip).
   Cost: Free (some private areas may charge small fees).
   Getting there: Take a transfer from the downtown bus terminal.
   Tip: Follow the Laguna Esmeralda trek info to find the best trailhead.

Cultural Sights and Historical Attractions

History in Ushuaia is tied to its remote location. The city began as a penal colony for dangerous criminals. Today, those old buildings serve as fascinating windows into the past. You can explore how people lived in this harsh climate decades ago.

Visiting these sites provides context for the modern city. The museums are great for rainy days in Patagonia. They are centrally located and easy to reach by foot. Don't miss the chance to learn about the indigenous Yámana people too.

1. Name: Maritime and Prison Museum
   Type: experience
   Why go: It is located inside the historic prison building. You can walk through old cells and see marine history.
   Best for: history buffs.
   Where: Yaganes and Gobernador Paz streets.
   Time: 2 to 3 hours.
   Cost: Moderate (includes access to multiple wings).
   Getting there: Walking distance from San Martin Street.
   Tip: Use a detailed museums in Ushuaia guide to plan your visit sequence.
2. Name: End of the World Train
   Type: experience
   Why go: This steam train follows the route once used by prisoners. It offers amazing views of the Pipo River valley.
   Best for: families and train enthusiasts.
   Where: Station is 7 km from the city.
   Time: 1.5 to 2 hours.
   Cost: High (luxury and standard classes available).
   Getting there: Taxi or tour bus from the city.
   Tip: Check these End of the World train tips for seating advice.
3. Name: Estancia Harberton
   Type: day trip
   Why go: This was the first ranch in Tierra del Fuego. It has a beautiful bone museum and historic gardens.
   Best for: those interested in pioneer history.
   Where: 85 km east of Ushuaia.
   Time: 6 to 8 hours (full day).
   Cost: Moderate to high for tours.
   Getting there: By car or organized tour boat.
   Tip: Book an Estancia Harberton day trip that includes Martillo Island.
4. Name: Saint Christopher Shipwreck
   Type: sight
   Why go: This 1940s rescue tug sits grounded in the harbor. It is a symbol of the city's maritime past.
   Best for: quick photos.
   Where: Coastline of the city harbor.
   Time: 15 minutes.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Walk along the waterfront promenade.
   Tip: Go at sunset for the most dramatic lighting on the hull.

Best Adventure Activities Near Ushuaia

Adventure seekers will love the rugged terrain here. You can climb glaciers or visit penguin colonies. Many of these activities are seasonal. For example, skiing is popular from June to September. Hiking is best from November to March.

Always check the local weather before you head out. Conditions change very fast in Tierra del Fuego. Even in summer, you should carry warm layers. Proper footwear is essential for the muddy trails you will encounter.

1. Name: Martial Glacier
   Type: adventure
   Why go: It offers the best panoramic view of the whole city. You can hike right up to the snow line.
   Best for: active travelers.
   Where: 7 km from downtown.
   Time: 3 to 4 hours.
   Cost: Free (chairlift has a fee).
   Getting there: Take a short taxi ride to the base.
   Tip: Review this Martial Glacier hiking guide for route details.
2. Name: Martillo Island Penguin Colony
   Type: experience
   Why go: It is home to thousands of Magellanic and Gentoo penguins. It is one of the few places where you can walk with them.
   Best for: wildlife lovers.
   Where: Near Estancia Harberton.
   Time: 6 hours.
   Cost: High (limited capacity tours).
   Getting there: Group tours by van and boat.
   Tip: Book penguin watching tours in Ushuaia early to avoid disappointment.
3. Name: Cerro Castor
   Type: activity
   Why go: This is the southernmost ski resort in the world. It has excellent snow quality due to the cold climate.
   Best for: skiers and snowboarders.
   Where: 26 km from the city.
   Time: Full day.
   Cost: Varies by lift pass and season.
   Getting there: Shuttle buses run regularly from the center.
   Tip: This Ushuaia winter activities guide has more info on local skiing.
4. Name: Lake Fagnano and Escondido
   Type: day trip
   Why go: These lakes are hidden deep within the Andes. A 4x4 tour is the best way to see the remote shores.
   Best for: adventure fans.
   Where: About 60-100 km north.
   Time: 7 to 9 hours.
   Cost: Moderate to high.
   Getting there: Book a guided 4x4 excursion.
   Tip: These tours usually include a traditional Patagonian lamb barbecue lunch.