3 Days In Ushuaia, Argentina: Best Itinerary For 2025

The Ultimate 3-Day Ushuaia Itinerary: Best Things to Do in Ushuaia in 3 Days

Ushuaia, Argentina, known as the “End of the World,” or “Fin Del Mundo” is one of the most breathtaking destinations in South America. Whether you’re looking for adventure, wildlife encounters, or stunning landscapes, Ushuaia has it all.

If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Ushuaia in 3 days, this itinerary covers penguin spotting on Martillo Island, hiking to Laguna del Caminante or Laguna Esmeralda, and exploring Tierra del Fuego National Park. This guide will help you make the most of your trip!

How to Spend 3 Days In Ushuaia?

DAY 1: Visit Martillo Island to See the Penguins

One of the most unforgettable experiences in Ushuaia is seeing penguins up close on Martillo Island. To get there, book a boat tour online in advance.

There are different boat options available. Catamaran tours are larger, accommodate more people, and are generally cheaper. However, they don’t stop on the island. Smaller boat tours provide a closer experience, allowing you to see the penguins from a short distance.

Only Piratour offers a special experience where you can walk on Martillo Island for about an hour, taking memorable photos with the penguins. This tour is more expensive ($200 USD+) and sells out quickly, so booking in advance is highly recommended.

Once you arrive at Martillo Island, you’ll be greeted by hundreds of Magellanic and Gentoo penguins. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a few king penguins! Walking among these adorable creatures in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Piratour allows you to spend about an hour on the island before heading back to Ushuaia. Otherwise, you will NOT get off on the island, but will only see them close up from the boat.

Tips

• Book your tour in advance, as spots fill up quickly.
• Dress warmly, Ushuaia’s weather can be unpredictable, even in summer.
• Bring a camera, but remember to respect the wildlife and follow the guide’s instructions.

Once back in Ushuaia, spend the evening strolling along the waterfront and exploring the town’s charming restaurants. Try local specialties like king crab (centolla) or Fuegian lamb.

DAY 2: Hike to Laguna del Caminante or Laguna Esmeralda

If you are a hiking enthusiast, you should check out the best hikes in Ushuaia. But if you are reading this blog, then it means you are short on time.

I will share the two best options depending on how much challenge you would like to take.

a) Laguna del Caminante

• Difficulty: Challenging
• Distance: 25 km (round trip)
• Duration: 8-10 hours (or overnight)
• How to Get There: The hike begins at Valle de Andorra, accessible by taxi or Uber OR you can start from Cañadon de la Oveja trailhead. We started from the Andorra forest.

If you love hiking and adventure, head to Laguna del Caminante for a challenging but rewarding trek. This hike takes you through dense forests, across rivers, and up rugged terrain before reaching the stunning, bluest lake. This hike is best suited for experienced hikers.

b) Laguna Esmeralda

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Distance: 9 km (out and back)
• Duration: 3-4 hours (round trip)
• How to Get There: The trailhead is located along Route 3, about 20 km from Ushuaia. You can take a taxi or an Uber.

Alternative Option: If you prefer a shorter and easier hike, consider trekking to Laguna Esmeralda instead. This hike offers beautiful scenery, including forests, beaver dams, and stunning turquoise waters. It’s one of the most popular hikes in Ushuaia and is perfect for those who want a scenic yet moderate trek.

After your hike, spend the evening exploring downtown Ushuaia. Visit the Museo del Fin del Mundo to learn about the region’s history, browse souvenir shops, or relax at a cozy café with a warm drink.

You can also have dinner at Bodegón Fueguino, amazing ambiance, food, and prices!

DAY 3: Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park

No trip to Ushuaia is complete without visiting Tierra del Fuego National Park. Just a short drive from the city, this national park is absolutely beautiful.

Here, you can explore scenic hiking trails, spot local wildlife like foxes and condors, and admire breathtaking landscapes of mountains, rivers, and the Beagle Channel.

For a unique experience, take the End of the World Train. This historic steam train follows the path of former prisoners who once worked in the region. It’s a scenic and historical way to see the park, especially if you prefer a relaxed experience.

Alternative Option: If you’d rather hike, consider the Costanera Trail, a beautiful coastal route with fantastic views of the Beagle Channel. It’s a great way to enjoy the park’s scenery at your own pace.

After your visit, head back to Ushuaia for a farewell dinner and enjoy a final taste of Patagonia before your departure.

Note: There is an entrance fee of $45,000 ARS for foreigners to access the park. Also, there are no cell phone signals in the park so make sure to download the offline map.

Where To Stay In Ushuaia?

Ushuaia can be expensive especially if you want to live in the centre. We stayed in Ushuaia for one month and since we were also working from our laptops, we did not need to stay in the centre. We stayed slightly outside the centre and took public buses to commute (because we love to explore public transport where ever we go!).

If you want to stay in the centre, here are some accommodations that are mid-range:

1. Hotel Monaco: A simple but comfortable accommodation at a great location. The place offers free Wifi and free breakfast. They also support with booking excursions for you.

2. Hotel Ushuaia: A more budget-friendly option, 10 blocks from the main San Martin Street, this hotel provides free wifi, breakfast, and parking.

Ushuaia FAQs

Why Is Ushuaia Called the End of the World?

Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world, located at the very tip of South America. It is the last major settlement before reaching Antarctica, earning it the nickname “El Fin del Mundo” (The End of the World).

Is Ushuaia, Argentina Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Ushuaia offers incredible landscapes, unique wildlife, and thrilling outdoor activities. Whether you’re an adventure traveler, a nature enthusiast, or a history buff, there’s something for everyone in Ushuaia.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Ushuaia?

The best time to visit Ushuaia depends on what you want to do:

Winter (June – August): Ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and experiencing Ushuaia’s winter wonderland.

Summer (December – February): Best for hiking, wildlife spotting, and longer daylight hours.

What should I pack for my trip to Ushuaia?

Well, keep in mind that summer temperatures are a maximum of 15-16 degrees centigrade. Weather is unpredictable so expect a lot of wind, days of rain, and sunshine. Keep a fleece, light down jacket, rain jacket, beanie, quick dry pants, and pair of wool socks with you.

How to get to the city from Ushuaia Airport?

Ubers are the best way to commute here in Ushuaia. You can call one when you arrive at the airport and within minutes, you will be home. Also, they are pretty cheap.

Final Word On 3 Days In Ushuaia

Ushuaia is absolutely a place worth visiting! There is so much to do, giving you the opportunity to choose the experiences you enjoy. You can go on hikes, take boat tours, dine at a nice restaurant, or explore the town. No matter what kind of traveler you are, Ushuaia promises an unforgettable experience!

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