Ice-cool Ushuaia: the very best things to do

Nestled among snow-capped mountains on the southernmost tip of Argentina, Ushuaia is a small port city with a big reputation. Known mostly as a gateway to the Drake Passage and Antarctica, the city has plenty to offer adventurous travellers who aren’t afraid of the cold. If you’re planning a trip to the world’s southernmost city, don’t miss these very cool things to do in Ushuaia.

Set sail on a cruise to Antarctica

The reason most people make the long journey south to the end of the world is to take an Antarctica cruise, which offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the white, untouched landscapes of what’s affectionately known as "The Ice" by locals. Setting off from Ushuaia, you journey across the Drake Passage, named after the famous explorer Sir Francis Drake, in the Southern Ocean, looking out for whales, albatrosses, and the occasional iceberg.

Next, it’s on to the great white continent itself and an environment that has to be seen to be believed. Among the vast snowy landscapes, try to catch a glimpse of leopard and crabeater seals, more penguins than you’ve ever seen before, and more amazing Antarctic wildlife. In the icy waters, keep your eyes peeled for orca, minke, and humpback whales. Most cruises include daily shore landings, weather permitting, so you can get up close and personal with the landscape and set foot on this incredible environment at the bottom of the world.

Experience it for yourself on: Antarctica Classic

Take a train to the end of the world

Once used by inmates of Ushuaia's prison to transport firewood, Tren del Fin del Mundo, or the "End of the World Train," is one of the most unmissable things to do in Ushuaia. Train enthusiasts will love the chance to ride the world’s southernmost working railway, but this fun trip out of the city has something for everyone.

Starting at the End of the World Station just outside Ushuaia, the restored steam locomotive takes in forests, mountains, rivers, and waterfalls on its short but stunning 7km (4.3 mi) journey. The best bit? The train ends its journey at the edge of Tierra del Fuego National Park, giving you the chance to explore even more of the area’s dramatic scenery. Speaking of which...

Visit a prison-turned-museum

If you’re going on a former prisoners’ railway, why not go the whole hog and explore a former prison too? That’s exactly where Ushuaia’s Museo Marítimo, or Maritime Museum, is located. Closed as a prison in 1947, the building was declared a National Historic Monument in 1997 and is now home to models, artifacts, and exhibitions telling the rich maritime history of the area. The iconic building also has three other museums: the Ushuaia Prison Museum, the Antarctic Museum, and the Marine Art Museum. It’s four museums for the price of one! No matter your area of interest, you’re guaranteed to leave with a deeper understanding of unique Ushuaia's diverse history.

Hike in Tierra del Fuego National Park

Almost as much of a draw for travellers as the trip to Antarctica, Tierra del Fuego National Park offers some of the best hiking in Argentina, and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular. Spanning 630 sq km (243 sq mi), the park comprises mountains, forests, waterfalls, and glaciers and is home to all manner of wildlife.

Getting to Tierra del Fuego National Park couldn’t be easier, and you don’t have to be an expert hiker to make the most of it. Ushuaia is only about 11km (6.8 mi) away. Plenty of half-day or full-day guided tours to the park depart each day, or you can book a taxi and go yourself. Ask your driver to drop you off at one of the trailheads and arrange to be met at one of the designated pickup spots. The main hiking trails are one way, making it easy to explore the beauty of the park safely.

Experience it for yourself on: End of the Earth

Explore the Beagle Channel by boat

One of the most popular things to do in Ushuaia, a trip on the Beagle Channel is an absolute must for anyone visiting the city. What’s great is that there are options for everyone, whether you’re spending a few days in the city or you have only an afternoon to spare. For travellers short on time, opt for one of the half-day boat tours. These generally include sea lion spotting, the famous Les Eclaireurs lighthouse and a stop at Bridges Islands to learn about the unique ecosystems that have developed here. If you have a little more time, full-day tours offer all of the above plus much more, including a visit to a penguin colony and the historic Estancia Haberton ranch.

Experience it for yourself on: Spirit of Shackleton

Take in the views from Glacier Martial

Once you’ve explored the Beagle Channel by boat, get a completely different perspective from Glacier Martial. Offering panoramic views of the Beagle Channel and Ushuaia, this popular glacier reached on a steep hike is worth it. Although the hike is a little challenging, at 6km (3.7 mi), it’s a relatively short trail and one that rewards you with unrivalled views of the surrounding areas. As with much of the hiking in Ushuaia, beginning the trek up to Glacier Martial couldn’t be easier. Take a taxi from town to the start of the trail and then hop in a waiting taxi at the bottom to take you home. Don’t forget to try out the nearby restaurants and teahouses for an extra pick-me-up.

Picnic next to Laguna Esmeralda

The Tierra del Fuego region is known for its lakes, and none is more beautiful than Laguna Esmeralda. This emerald green glacial lake sits hidden in the mountains as a reward for those who make the hike up, offering calm and serenity in a dramatic, windswept place. At about 9km (5.5 mi), the hike to Laguna Esmeralda isn’t the longest, but it can be muddy, icy, and snowy. Bring your walking boots and be prepared to get dirty. Once you’re at the top, you’ll see why it’s one of the most popular hikes in the area. The views across the lake are incredible, while the surrounding trees and mini beaches offer plenty of options for exploring and relaxing. Find a quiet spot out of the wind and break out the sandwiches — you’ve earned it.

Hang out with penguins on Martillo Island

Penguins are a pretty common feature in this part of the world, and nowhere is this truer than on Martillo Island. Located in the Beagle Channel, this little island is where hundreds, if not thousands, of penguins make their nests each year. While there’s no doubt that the island belongs to them, you’re more than welcome to stop by for a visit and stroll among the feathered residents as they go about their day. On the island are Magellanic penguins, Gentoo penguins, and even the occasional King penguin, and you’re unlikely to be able to get a closer look at them than here in their natural habitat. Visit between mid-October and mid-April to see the penguins in all their glory.

Hit the ski slopes in Cerro Castor

What’s the point of all those snowy mountains if you can’t ski at least some of them? That’s where Cerro Castor comes in, the small but mighty ski resort just 26km (16 mi) from Ushuaia. With 13 lifts and 35km (22 mi) of slopes that range from beginner to expert, Cerro Castor has something for skiers of all sorts. Being so close to Ushuaia, it’s perfect for a day out on the snow at a reasonable price, but there’s also plenty to keep advanced skiers entertained for days.

The ski season runs from around late June to late September, but the resort offers more than just skiing. Sample tasty local delicacies and even tastier views in the eight bars and restaurants in the resort and on the slopes, get the latest gear in the boutique skiwear shops, or book a helicopter tour of the region for unforgettable views of the mountain range.

Drink a craft beer in downtown Ushuaia

All that hiking and wildlife-watching is thirsty work, right? Don’t worry, Ushuaia has you covered. Even the city at the end of the world couldn’t escape the craft beer revolution, so travellers can find plenty of pubs and bars downtown that serve local ales alongside specialties from further afield, just what’s needed after a long day of hiking.

Try a pint from Ushuaia’s own Beagle Brewery. Started in a family kitchen in 1999, Beagle has grown to become as much a part of the region as the glaciers that provide the brewery’s water. While its reputation has grown and the brewery has expanded its range, it still uses the same traditional recipes in all its beers. You can find Beagle beers all over the world now, but there’s nothing quite like sampling one overlooking the mountains in the brewery's hometown.