USHUAIA
Ushuaia, the “End of the World,” is the southernmost city on the planet, nestled between the Beagle Channel and the dramatic Martial Mountains. It serves as the primary gateway for expeditions to Antarctica.
This remote Patagonian city is a land of stunning extremes, offering adventures from glacier trekking and skiing to exploring unique sub-Antarctic wildlife and the deep history of Tierra del Fuego.
Most Popular Attractions
Ushuaia City Core & Waterfront
Museo del Fin del Mundo (End of the World Museum): Features exhibits on the region’s natural history, indigenous peoples (Yámanas), and the early penal colony.
Museo Marítimo y del Presidio de Ushuaia (Maritime Museum and Old Prison): Housed in the city’s former prison, this complex details the history of exploration, the penal colony, and Patagonian seafaring.
Avenida San Martín: The main street of Ushuaia, home to most shops, restaurants, tour operators, and the iconic “Ushuaia, Fin del Mundo” sign.
Casa Beban: One of the city’s oldest and most striking buildings, a beautiful prefabricated house from the late 19th century now used for cultural events.
Paseo del Centenario: A waterfront walkway offering excellent views of the harbor and the Beagle Channel.
Plaza 25 de Mayo: Ushuaia’s central square, a popular spot for relaxation and people-watching.
Iglesia Nuestra Señora de la Merced: A charming church that provides a glimpse into the city’s community life.
Galeria Temática Historia Fueguina: A thematic gallery that uses lifelike dioramas to tell the story of Tierra del Fuego.
Muelle Turístico (Tourist Pier): The departure point for most Beagle Channel and Antarctic cruises.
Beagle Channel & Sea Excursions
Faro Les Éclaireurs (Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse): The iconic red-and-white striped lighthouse often mistakenly called the “End of the World Lighthouse” (that one is on Isla de los Estados). It’s a highlight of boat trips.
Isla Martillo (Penguin Island): A key destination for observing colonies of Magellanic and Gentoo penguins in their natural habitat.
Isla de Lobos (Sea Lion Island): Home to large colonies of South American sea lions, visible during channel navigation.
Bird Island (Isla de los Pájaros): A small island populated by diverse seabirds, including Imperial Cormorants and albatrosses.
Gable Island: A larger island known for its scenic hiking trails and the remnants of an old Estancia (ranch).
Harberton Ranch (Estancia Harberton): The first Estancia in Tierra del Fuego, offering a glimpse into the life of early settlers and access to Isla Martillo.
Cruises to Antarctica and Cape Horn: Ushuaia is the main port for embarking on expeditions to the Antarctic Peninsula and the legendary Cape Horn.
Tierra del Fuego National Park & Mountain Sites
Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego: A stunning national park featuring mountains, forests, rivers, and the Beagle Channel coastline.
Tren del Fin del Mundo (End of the World Train): A historic steam train that runs along the route of the old prison railway into the National Park.
Lapataia Bay: The official end of the Pan-American Highway (Ruta Nacional 3), marked by stunning coastal views within the National Park.
Senda Costera (Coastal Path): A famous trail in the National Park offering spectacular views where the Andes meet the ocean.
Glaciar Martial (Martial Glacier): Accessible via a chairlift (or hiking), this is the closest glacier to the city, offering beautiful views and a starting point for ice trekking.
Laguna Esmeralda: A breathtaking turquoise lake surrounded by peat bogs and the beautiful Andes mountains, accessible by a moderate-level hike.
Cerro Castor Ski Resort: The southernmost major ski resort in the world, offering excellent winter sports facilities.
Valle de Tierra Mayor: A long valley famous for winter activities like cross-country skiing, dog sledding, and snowshoeing.
Paso Garibaldi: The highest point on the main road (Ruta 3), offering a panoramic view of Lakes Escondido and Fagnano.
Activities & Experiences
Trek in Tierra del Fuego National Park: Explore the trails leading to the Bay of Lapataia, the End of the World Post Office, and through the subantarctic forest.
Take the End of the World Train (Tren del Fin del Mundo): Ride the historic narrow-gauge railway through the Pipo River Valley and the national park, retracing the route of the former prison train.
Sail the Beagle Channel: Take a catamaran excursion to see the Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse (often called the “End of the World Lighthouse”), Sea Lion Island, and Bird Island.
Visit the Maritime and Former Presidio Museum (Prison): Explore the city’s historical origins by touring the former prison, which now houses several fascinating museums under one roof.
Hike to Laguna Esmeralda: Take a stunning half-day hike through a peat bog and forest to a vivid emerald-green glacial lake, famous for its incredible reflection views.
Go King Penguin Watching: Take a full-day trip to Estancia Harberton and then a boat trip to Martillo Island (Isla Yécapasela) to observe a colony of King, Magellanic, and Gentoo penguins.
Ski or Snowboard at Cerro Castor: (Seasonal – Winter) Visit the southernmost ski resort in the world for alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowboarding.
Experience a 4×4 Off-Road Adventure: Join a guided tour that takes you deep into the Fuegian wilderness, often including a traditional asado (Argentinian barbecue).
Learn about the Yámana Culture: Visit the Museo del Fin del Mundo (End of the World Museum) to understand the history and life of the indigenous people of the region.
Kayak or Canoe in the Beagle Channel: Rent a kayak or join a guided tour for a unique, close-to-the-water perspective of the channel and its surrounding landscape.
Take a Scenic Drive on Route J and Provincial Route 3: Explore the landscapes east of Ushuaia, including the stunning coastal road and valleys.
Go Ice Skating or Sledding: (Seasonal – Winter) Enjoy winter activities at one of the city’s outdoor rinks or winter activity centers in the valleys.
Local Tips & Transport
Taxis & Remises: Taxis are readily available in the city center and at the airport. A remise is a private, pre-booked taxi, which can be useful for longer trips or airport transfers. There is a fixed fare zone for trips between the airport and the city center.
Local Buses: Ushuaia has a public bus system, but services outside the main city center and to major tourist spots like the National Park are limited. The city is small enough that most of the downtown area is easily walkable.
Getting to the National Park: The most common way to reach Tierra del Fuego National Park is via shared transfer mini-vans (colectivos) which leave from the bus terminal downtown. Taxis are also an option but are more expensive.
Car Rental: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the area at your own pace, especially for the scenic Route 3 and the area towards Lago Fagnano. Be prepared for varied weather and road conditions, particularly outside the summer months.
Port: The port for Beagle Channel excursions is conveniently located right in the city center, a short walk from most hotels.
Weather and Layers: Ushuaia’s weather is famously unpredictable. Locals live by the “four seasons in one day” rule. Dress in layers—a waterproof/windproof outer shell, fleece/down mid-layer, and thermals—is essential, even in summer.
Summer Daylight: In the summer (December-February), expect extremely long daylight hours, with the sun setting as late as 10:30 PM. This allows for very long days of sightseeing, but make sure to draw the blackout curtains in your hotel.
Winter Darkness: Conversely, winter (June-August) brings very short days, with as little as 7-8 hours of daylight. Plan your outdoor activities around this limited light.
Argentinian Dining Times: Like the rest of Argentina, locals eat dinner late, often starting after 9 PM. Lunch is typically between 1 PM and 3 PM. Many restaurants offer merienda (afternoon tea/snack) between lunch and dinner.
“Fin del Mundo” (End of the World): Ushuaia embraces its title as the southernmost city in the world. You will find “Fin del Mundo” attached to everything from the museum to the train. This is a source of great local pride.
Hidden Gems:
- Glacier Martial: A great alternative to the National Park for a quick hike right above the city. Take the chairlift (if operating) up to save some elevation gain, or walk the trail for fantastic panoramic views of Ushuaia, the Beagle Channel, and the mountains.
- Presidio Museum Rooftop View: The views from the top floors of the old prison museum offer a unique, elevated perspective of the bay and the city.
- Local Brewpubs: Ushuaia has a growing craft beer scene. Check out local breweries like Cervecería Beagle or Cervecería Cape Horn for a locally brewed pint and Patagonian pub fare.
- Calafate Berries: Try local dishes and desserts featuring the Calafate berry, a Patagonian superfood said to ensure your return to the region.
Top Restaurants
El Viejo Marino [Price varies – approx. $40-$70 for King Crab] – A famed, no-frills, seafood-focused cantina right on the harbor, wildly popular with locals for its fresh centolla (King Crab) and generous portions. Expect a line.
La Cantina Fueguina De Freddy [$25-$50] – A vibrant and casual eatery in the downtown area, often showcasing live King Crab, serving classic Patagonian seafood stew and other regional favorites.
Tia Elvira [$20-$40] – A classic, long-standing restaurant near the waterfront, serving hearty, traditional Argentine and German-influenced dishes, with excellent seafood options like black hake (merluza negra).
Parrilla La Estancia [$25-$45] – A must-visit traditional parrilla in the downtown area for meat lovers, known for its authentic Fuegian Lamb slowly cooked over an open fire (al asador).
Bodegón Fueguino [$20-$40] – Located just outside the main downtown bustle, this charming, rustic pioneer house serves hearty, authentic Patagonian dishes and a great daily menu in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Ramos Generales El Almacén [$15-$30] – Located right on the waterfront, this charming café/restaurant is set in an old frontier general store, filled with history and serving traditional Argentine staples, great for lunch or coffee.
La Cabaña Tea House [$15-$30] – A cozy, rustic wood cabin nestled on the hillside on the way to Martial Glacier, perfect for a break offering homemade cakes, warm drinks, and lunch options like fondue.
Dali Cafe [$10-$20] – A warm and welcoming cafe in the downtown area with a chill atmosphere, perfect for a casual hot chocolate with honey or a light meal.
Tante Sara Café Bar [$15-$30] – A long-established, always busy downtown cafe/bar that serves everything from breakfast to dinner, with an eclectic menu that includes pasta, seafood, and classic Argentine fare.
Doña Lupita [$10-$20] – A cozy, budget-friendly spot in the downtown area focusing on Argentine fast-food favorites like pizza, empanadas, and chicken dishes.
Lomitos Martinica [$15-$25] – A true local’s spot with a simple counter-service setting, famous for its massive, fresh-off-the-charcoal-grill lomitos (steak sandwiches) and other hearty grilled meats.
Quinquela Cafe, Bar and Pizzas [$15-$30] – A friendly downtown spot offering casual pub fare, including good pizzas, and a nice selection of drinks like pisco sours.
El Mercado Ushuaia [$15-$25] – A great spot in the city center for nourishing food, including fresh sandwiches, breakfasts, and desserts, perfect before or after a hike.
Kuar 1900 [$20-$40] – A less formal but equally delightful sibling of Kuar Resto Bar, located in the heart of Ushuaia, offering classic Patagonian flavors and dishes.
Casimiro Bigua [$30-$50] – An authentic Argentine steakhouse in downtown Ushuaia known for perfecting the traditional Patagonian lamb roast over charcoal or firewood.
Bar Ideal [$15-$30] – Located in the city center, this popular, cozy pub/bar is a favorite for a drink and decent, reasonably priced pub food, boasting the title of the world’s southernmost Irish pub.
Kalma Restó [$40-$70] – A highly-regarded, small restaurant slightly off the downtown center, known for its contemporary and inventive take on local Patagonian ingredients like King Crab, black hake, and lamb.
María Lola Restó [$35-$60] – A popular, modern dining spot in Ushuaia offering a diverse and refined menu that creatively interprets Argentine and Patagonian cuisine, often with stunning views.
Kuar Resto Bar [$35-$60] – Located just outside the downtown area, the short walk is worth it for its stunning views of the Beagle Channel and a menu that beautifully blends fresh local produce with sophisticated cuisine.
Corteza Restó [$30-$50] – A restaurant praised for its sophisticated gourmet food, excellent service, and great acoustics, offering a complete and refined dining experience in the city.
Andio Gourmet [$30-$50] – Located in the downtown area, this is a popular spot for its fresh homemade pasta, a satisfying meal after a long hike in the national park.
Frontera Sur [$30-$50] – A popular downtown spot offering modern Patagonian and Argentine cuisine with creative presentations and a lively atmosphere.
Volver [$30-$50] – Known for its decorative and unique atmosphere with historical relics, this downtown restaurant offers a renewed focus on Patagonian and regional flavors.
Reineta Restó [$35-$60] – A downtown option known for its modern ambiance and a menu that often puts a creative twist on classic Patagonian seafood and meat dishes.
Puerto Pirata Aldea de Pescadores [$40-$70] – Located slightly out of town, this “Fishermen’s Village” offers fresh seafood with a focus on King Crab, serving as a more rustic yet high-quality alternative to downtown restaurants.
La Mesita De Almanza [$40-$70] – A small, warm, wood-decorated place in the fishing village of Puerto Almanza (about 65km from Ushuaia), offering incredible views of the Beagle Channel and the freshest King Crab and seafood possible at a more local price point.
Dahl & Cía [$25-$45] – A popular spot in the city center for modern cuisine, often highlighted for its creative use of regional ingredients in a bright, contemporary setting.
Dulce Fuego [Price Varies, often set menu $60-$90] – A unique, often off-the-tourist-map catering and delivery service that sometimes offers pre-booked, set-menu, high-end private dining experiences featuring innovative Patagonian gourmet cuisine—contact well in advance for special nights.
Kaupé Restaurant [$70-$120] – Widely recognized as one of Ushuaia’s best, this family-owned high-end establishment is perched on a hill, offering exquisite, classical Argentine cuisine, particularly seafood, with panoramic views of the harbor.
Chez Manu [$70-$120] – Perched a couple of miles above town on the slopes of the Martial Glacier, this restaurant offers French cuisine with a distinct Patagonian twist, using only local ingredients and boasting stunning views of the Beagle Channel.
Augusto Ushuaia [$60-$100] – A sophisticated, haute cuisine experience in the city center that focuses on a thoughtful fusion of Patagonian and Mediterranean flavors using fresh, high-quality local ingredients.
Reinamora [$60-$90] – Located within the picturesque Hotel Los Cauquenes (outside the city center), this elegant restaurant offers a unique gastronomic experience blending regional and international flavors with stunning sea views.
Le Martial [$60-$90] – Located on the way up to the Martial Glacier, this fabulous eatery offers high-quality cuisine with views of the Beagle Channel and the surrounding mountains and forests.
La Cravia [$60-$90] – Located in the exclusive Arakur Hotel (high on the hill overlooking the city), this top-notch restaurant provides an elegant, high-end culinary experience with panoramic views, combining Patagonian and international gourmet dishes.
Corte Comedor [$50-$80] – A refined dining option in the city center that offers a sophisticated atmosphere and a menu focused on high-quality Patagonian and Argentine ingredients.
Bar de Fuegos [$50-$80] – Located in the Los Cauquenes Resort, this spot offers a more casual yet still high-end dining option focused on slow-cooked meats and traditional Patagonian flavors.
Pampa Cocina [$40-$70] – A centrally located restaurant with a focus on modern, refined Argentine cuisine, often featuring expertly cooked Patagonian lamb and regional seafood.
Restó del Glacier [$40-$70] – Located in a hotel on the mountain side, offering a refined menu with panoramic views, specializing in local ingredients and Patagonian lamb.
Ana & Juana [$10-$20] – A highly-recommended café in the downtown area, famous for its excellent coffee and a wide range of delicious homemade sweets, including cakes, scones, and brownies.
Dublin Pub [$15-$30] – A long-standing, iconic Irish pub in the downtown area popular with both locals and visitors, great for a pint of local craft beer (like Beagle Beer) and hearty pub fare.
Isla Vegana [$15-$25] – A welcoming downtown spot that offers fresh, homemade vegan and vegetarian options, which can be a welcome change from the meat and seafood-heavy regional diet.
La Marmita [$20-$40] – A charming downtown restaurant with a focus on regional specialties, including unique dishes like guanaco stew and Fuegian empanadas.
Ruperto’s [$20-$40] – A downtown restaurant often praised for its unique atmosphere and delicious Patagonian meat and seafood dishes.
Yámana Bar & Patagonian Brew Pub [$15-$30] – Located downtown, this spot is perfect for trying local craft beers and enjoying casual pub food or Patagonian-inspired bar snacks.
El Pinguino [$15-$30] – A laid-back, simple downtown spot known for serving traditional Argentine dishes and is often a good budget-friendly choice for a quick, hearty meal.
Mercado Central [$10-$20] – While not a formal restaurant, the central market in the downtown area has small stalls and vendors selling local products, great for picking up artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and regional sweets.
Chocolatería Edelweiss [$5-$15] – Located centrally, this is a must-stop for a treat. Ushuaia is known for its excellent artisanal chocolate, and this spot is one of the best for hot chocolate and unique regional sweets.
Lucciano’s [$5-$15] – A popular ice cream chain with a location in the city center, known for its high-quality artisanal gelato and Argentine classics like alfajores and dulce de leche flavors.
Los Girasoles [$15-$25] – A simple, unpretentious, centrally located restaurant that is a favorite for home-style Argentine food and value.
Pizza Bar [$15-$30] – A good downtown option for a casual meal, offering a variety of Argentine-style pizzas and a relaxed bar atmosphere.
La Última Bita [$20-$40] – A downtown restaurant that offers a mix of Patagonian and international cuisine, often featuring creative specials and a focus on local ingredients.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Dublin Pub: A classic Irish-style pub located right on Av. San Martín, offering a warm atmosphere, a wide selection of national and imported beers, and excellent pub fare, making it a perfect spot for both locals and travelers.
Ramos Generales: Found in the historic old store “El Almacén de Ramos Generales” near the waterfront, this beautifully restored bar/café offers a step back in time, serving coffee, drinks, and light meals in a rustic, atmospheric setting.
Fueguia: Located on the main avenue, this stylish bar focuses on craft cocktails and premium spirits, providing a more sophisticated and modern drinking experience in the city center.
Caminante Bar de Fuegos: A rustic bar often focused on drinks and traditional Patagonian food, located centrally, offering a cozy retreat with a focus on local flavors and a fireplace (fuegos).
Hotel Arakur Bar: Positioned high on a hill with stunning panoramic views of the Beagle Channel and the city, the bar in this luxury hotel offers high-end cocktails and an unparalleled setting for a sunset drink.
Hotel Albatros Bar: Located near the port, this hotel bar is a popular meeting point for cruise ship passengers and travelers, offering a comfortable setting for enjoying a nightcap or a classic cocktail.
Yámana Bar: A small, charming bar on a side street off the main avenue known for its friendly service and focus on local craft beer and classic mixed drinks.
Tierra Mayor Bar: Found in the stunning natural setting of the Tierra Mayor Valley (a short drive outside the city), this is an ideal spot for a post-activity drink, especially after cross-country skiing or dog-sledding.
Volver Bar: Located close to the port, this spot is known for its maritime theme and serves a good selection of wines, beers, and simple mixed drinks in a relaxed atmosphere.
La Estancia: While primarily a restaurant known for its Patagonian lamb, its bar area on Av. San Martín offers a warm, wood-heavy ambiance for enjoying a pre-dinner aperitivo or local wine.
Kosten: Found near the center, this restaurant and bar offers a modern space with great views and a selection of classic cocktails, often using local ingredients.
La Cabaña Casa de Té: Although a teahouse, its cozy, rustic cabin feel and relaxed atmosphere (located slightly off the main hustle) make it a lovely, quiet spot for an early evening glass of local wine or simple spirit.
Antares Microcervecería: Known primarily for its wide selection of craft beer, this centrally located brewpub on Av. San Martín also offers a few basic cocktails and a lively, social atmosphere.
El Bambú Bar: A centrally located bar and lounge offering a relaxed environment with pool tables and a good selection of bottled beers and spirits.
The Old Beagle: A traditional, pub-style bar near the tourist information center, known for its selection of whiskeys and a cozy, unpretentious vibe.
Nautico Disco: One of Ushuaia’s most popular nightclubs, located centrally on the main avenue, known for its late hours and mix of Latin, commercial, and electronic music, drawing a young, energetic crowd.
Club Ushuaia: A well-known venue in the city center that often hosts local and international DJs, offering a classic club experience with a dedicated dance floor and light show.
Bowling & Club: Combining a small bowling alley with a late-night club, this unique spot on Av. San Martín offers a fun, alternative night out with music and drinks.
Club Náutico: A late-night venue, often featuring a mix of live music and DJ sets, located close to the waterfront and popular with a slightly older, local crowd.
Kuya Nightclub: A centrally located club that opens late and is known for its themed parties and loud music, providing a classic, energetic nightclub experience.
Galeria Tematica Night: While primarily a cultural space and museum, the venue occasionally hosts special late-night events or parties with a temporary club setup, adding a unique flare to the nightlife.
Kashiri Bar/Club: A late-night bar that transitions into a small, lively dance floor as the night progresses, found close to the center and popular for its strong drinks.
Mágico Pub: Located on the main street, this venue functions as a pub early in the evening but often features live music and a bustling dance area on weekends, transforming into a mini-club.
Lobo Bar: Another late-night option often featuring a DJ or small live band, popular for those looking for a slightly smaller, more intimate clubbing experience.
The Base: Known as a local spot for strong drinks and a guaranteed late-night scene, this is a no-frills location that draws in travelers and locals looking to end the night dancing.