10 BEST Things To Do In Ushuaia, Argentina In 2026

Updated: January 2026

Best Things To Do In Ushuaia, Argentina: End Of The World

Ushuaia, pronounced as OO-SOO-AAYA, also known as the End of the World, sits at the very tip of South America. Snow-capped mountains rise just behind the city, with the Beagle Channel spread out in front, and a beautiful view of boats and seabirds.

We would say Ushuaia is a hiker’s paradise. But either you like hiking or simply want to enjoy the views, Ushuaia makes it easy to step straight into nature. One moment you’re in town, and the next you’re surrounded by forests, glaciers, or coastal paths.

We spent a month in Ushuaia where we stayed with a local guide and got to know about the hidden gems and beautiful hikes. We also made local friends who showed us the places which otherwise we would have missed.

Fun Fact: Ushuaia is also known as the Gateway To Antarctica. If you ever plan to take a cruise to Antarctica, you would take it from Ushuaia. And maybe you are in Ushuaia or traveling to Ushuaia because of that exact reason!

We wanted to share our experience with you in this guide to the 10 best things to do in Ushuaia to make the most of your trip!

How Much Time Should I Spend In Ushuaia?

Ushuaia has so much to offer that deciding how long to stay can be tricky. Ideally, you should plan for 4 to 7 days to enjoy the best hikes, boat tours, and activities without rushing. If you’re a hiking enthusiast, a week gives you enough time to explore multiple trails and visit key attractions.

If you’re short on time, 3 to 4 days will still allow you to experience the highlights, including a boat tour and a couple of amazing hikes. My 3 day itinerary lays it all out to help you plan your trip.

10 BEST Things To Do In Ushuaia

1. Beagle Channel boat tour to see wildlife

Let’s start with the things that people come to Ushuaia to do which is seeing the wildlife! We used Patagonia Adventure Explorer to do our 4-hour guided boat tour. They also provided free tea and hot chocolate. It was an amazing experience, we sat on the deck the whole time enjoying conversations, the views, and the breeze with a cup of hot chocolate. On our way, we saw the colony of cormorants on the bird’s island, colony of sea lions, and the End Of The World Lighthouse: Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse.

Then we stopped at Bridges Island where we did a 45-minute hike to see the flora and fauna. We learned about some plant species that grow 1 mm in a year due to harsh weather conditions and how they are so important for the ecosystem.

Walking on the island was such a great experience!

Bonus: On our ride back, we got free hot beverages (unlimited). And there are toilettes on the boat!

2. Penguin Tour on Martillo Island

If seeing penguins up close is on your bucket list, then a penguin tour to Martillo Island is a must-do in Ushuaia! There is only one authorized company, Piratour, that allows visitors to walk among the penguins on the island itself, giving you the rare chance to observe Magellanic and Gentoo penguins in their natural habitat.

You will find a lot of other tours that would take you in Catamaran boats to see the penguins but they don’t have the permission to get off on the island. So be mindful when booking the tours what they are offering.

Best time to visit:

Tours to Martillo Island operate from October to March, so plan accordingly if penguin tour is something you would like to do.

The tour starts with a scenic drive along Ruta 3 to Estancia Harberton, a historic ranch. After a short guided visit, you’ll hop into a zodiac boat for a quick 15-minute ride across the Beagle Channel to the island.

Once you arrive, you’ll have an hour to walk among the adorable penguins, watching them waddle, interact, and even take a dip in the water.

One of the most exciting surprises is the chance to spot a King Penguin or a leopard seal, though rare, a few have made Martillo Island their unexpected home!

Tip: This tour is extremely popular, so book in advance to secure your spot. Also, bring warm layers and a windproof jacket as it can get quite cold on the island!

3. Ride The End Of The World Train

One of the most unique experiences in Ushuaia is taking a ride on the End of the World Train (Tren del Fin del Mundo). Originally built to transport prisoners to the remote forests for logging, this historic steam train now offers visitors a scenic journey through the stunning landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park.

As you travel along the tracks, you’ll pass through forests, rivers, and snow-capped mountains, all while learning about Ushuaia’s fascinating past through onboard narration. You will also get a chance to get your passport stamped at the End Of The World Post Office!

Tip: Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure a good seat with panoramic views!

4. Playa Larga

If you’re looking for a relaxing walk by the sea or beach time, Playa Larga is a great option. This beach offers beautiful views of the Beagle Channel, with chances to spot local birds. Bring a picnic and enjoy a peaceful afternoon by the shore!

If you are driving, there are some parking spots as well. It can also be easily accessed through taxi or Uber.

If you would like to explore the Patagonian beauty by hiking, these are some of the options for you:

5. Hike at Laguna Esmeralda

• Distance: 9 km (round trip)
• Duration: 4-5 hours
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

One of the most famous hikes in Ushuaia, Laguna Esmeralda is known for its stunning turquoise lake nestled between mountains. You don’t need a lot of hiking experience for this trek. We saw people of all ages and fitness levels doing it.

The trail is relatively easy, with a mix of forests, peat bogs, and open valleys leading up to the lake. However, it can be a bit muddy so wear proper shoes. The views were absolutely breath taking! You can reach the trailhead by Uber but the best bet would be to have a taxi arranged to pick you up as well because there are no signals in that area.

If you like to go with a tour group, that can also be an option. There are multiple tours you can choose from here.

6. Hike at Laguna del Caminante

Need some challenging AND a beautiful hike?

• Distance: 20 km (round trip)
• Duration: 8-10 hours (or overnight)
• Difficulty: Challenging

If you love adventure and solitude, Laguna del Caminante is a must-do hike. This is one of the more remote trails in Ushuaia, taking you deep into the untouched wilderness. You’ll pass through forests, river crossings, and boggy valleys before reaching the blue lake, surrounded by towering mountains. Some of the views were absolutely magical that no words or pictures can capture.

Thanks to our local guide who told us about this trek and then we met a couple as well who did it and could not stop praising about it.

Many hikers choose to camp overnight here to fully enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. That can be a good option if the weather allows and if you have your camping gear. We did this trek as a day trip.

You will also see some horses on the trail, beautiful horses! And pass through areas in the Andorra forest which looks magical (right out of a fairy tale).

7. Tierra Del Fuego National Park

A visit to Ushuaia isn’t complete without exploring Tierra del Fuego National Park. This massive park has forests, lakes, and mountain trails with stunning scenery at every turn. You can choose from short, easy walks or full-day hikes, depending on your preference. Popular trails include the Senda Costera (Coastal Path) and Laguna Negra.

Tip: There’s an entrance fee to the park, and it’s best to visit early in the morning to make the most of your day.

8. Hike to Estancia Túnel

• Distance: 5 km (round trip)
• Duration: 3 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

This hike offers beautiful coastal views and a peaceful escape from the busier trails. The route follows the Beagle Channel, passing through forests and open meadows before reaching an old abandoned ranch (Estancia Túnel). The scenery along the way is absolutely stunning.

We lived close to this and this became our routine hike. It was so peaceful and beautiful.

Since it is an easy trail, people of any fitness level can do it. Also, super accessible by Uber or taxi.

Interested in hiking gears? Check out all that we use for hiking in South America HERE

9. Eat at Bodegón Fueguino Restaurant

Hungry after a long day and want to indulge in a delicious meal? Bodegón Fueguino is your go-to place! The line-up starts before the restaurant opens. Their timings are at 12 pm – 2:45 pm and then from 8 pm – 11:45 pm. This restaurant offers ambiance as well as huge portions of meal with an affordable price.

10. Museo Marítimo y del Presidio

The Museo Marítimo y del Presidio (Maritime Museum & Prison Museum) offers a unique chance to explore Ushuaia’s history as a penal colony. Housed in a former prison, the museum reveals the harsh conditions faced by prisoners sent to this remote location in the early 20th century.

Visitors can tour the old cells, chapel, and learn about life behind bars in one of the world’s most isolated prisons.

The museum also highlights Ushuaia’s maritime history, showcasing the region’s role as a vital port in navigating the Beagle Channel. With exhibits on early exploration and maritime navigation, it’s a fascinating stop for anyone interested in the town’s multifaceted past.

Note: It has an entrance fee of ARS $40,000 for adults and free for children under 12 years of age.

Ushuaia, Argentina FAQs

Where Is Ushuaia?

Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world, located at the tip of Argentina in Tierra del Fuego. It sits on the shores of the Beagle Channel, surrounded by the Martial Mountains, making it a stunning gateway to both Patagonia and Antarctica.

Where To Stay In Ushuaia?

Here are some budget friendly options to stay in the downtown:

1. Antarctica Hostel: Close to the airport, this hostel provides good internet and free breakfast. There is a shared kitchen where you can cook your meals as well. A bed in a dorm style room starts at $34 USD per night whereas a double room with private bathroom is $85 USD per night.

1. Casa Cima: Close to the airport, in downtown – this deluxe studio provides you with your own space to relax with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. The price starts at $100+ USD per night.

1. Departamento Naim: 1 bedroom apartment, close to downtown with basic amenities. Ideal for those who would like a personal but budget friendly space. Price per night is $38 USD for two people.

What To Pack For Ushuaia?

Ushuaia’s weather is unpredictable, so it’s best to dress in layers. These are the things that you would want to pack:
✔️ Waterproof hiking boots. Trails can be muddy and it rains so it is best to have your waterproof boots.
✔️ Warm layers (fleece, thermals, down jacket). Even summer can be chilly with max temperature up to 16 degrees centigrade. We always needed some kind of layer in January.
✔️ Windproof and waterproof jacket. The wind is strong, especially near the coast. So carry a windbreaker or a waterproof jacket for rainy days.
✔️ Gloves and a hat or beanie. Essential for hikes or boat tours where it can get cold.
✔️ Sunglasses and sunscreen. The sun is intense, even in cool weather. Protect yourself with sunglasses and sunscreen with SPF 50+.
✔️ A small backpack. Useful for day hikes and city exploring.
✔️ Camera. The landscapes are breathtaking so of course you would want to capture that.

Is Ushuaia worth it?

Absolutely! Ushuaia offers breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and unique outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hiking through beautiful trails, sailing alongside sea lions, or walking among penguins, it’s a place you won’t forget. If you love nature and adventure, Ushuaia is 100% worth visiting.

What is the best time to visit Ushuaia?

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

• Summer (December to February): Best for hiking, wildlife tours, and long daylight hours.
• Spring & Fall (October-November, March-April): Fewer crowds, still great for hiking and wildlife and to see the beautiful fall colors.
• Winter (June to August): Perfect for skiing and experiencing Ushuaia’s snow-covered beauty.

Does Ushuaia have public transport?

Ushuaia has limited public transport. There are local buses within the city that requires a SUBE card and would cost ARS ~$800 per trip. You can use the app Mi Bondi to track the timings and route of the buses. But for hikes and tourist spots, you’ll need a taxi or Uber which is pretty accessible and convenient.

Some places, like Tierra del Fuego National Park, offer shuttle services from the city center. You can also rent a car or go with a tour company to the national park and not worry about shuttles or Uber.

Final Thoughts On Ushuaia

Ushuaia is absolutely beautiful and highly underrated. People don’t know much about Ushuaia but if you give it time and explore, there are so many things to do. It is a heaven for those who are outdoor enthusiasts as there are many hidden trails all around the city. You will find activities whether or not you are a hiker, you just have to approach this city with an open mind.

READY TO TRAVEL LIKE A LOCAL?

Book a free 30-minute consulting call with us and let’s start planning your next unforgettable adventure!