Ushuaia Trekking to Laguna Esmeralda Experience

Ushuaia , Argentina

Ushuaia Trekking to Laguna Esmeralda Experience

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About this experience

A classic adventure at the End of the World, an accessible hike to an Emerald Lagoon.
We will pick you up at your accommodation to start our trip to the National Route, where we will start our journey to the starting point. There we will get ready for a 4.5 km hike to the lagoon. During approximately 2 hours, we will cross lush forests, peat valleys, crystalline rivers and majestic mountains.
Following the course of the Esmeralda River, we will approach our destination. The lagoon gets its name from the unique color it acquires thanks to the sediments of the Ojo del Albino Glacier, this being the best time of the year to appreciate it in all its splendor. While enjoying this breathtaking scenery, we will recharge our batteries with a delicious box lunch before returning along the same trail, allowing us to once again appreciate the beauty of the environment and discover new angles to capture photographs.

Available options

Trekking to Esmeralda Lagoon

Pickup included

What's included

box lunch

Transfer in/out hotels in downtown ushuaia.

Bilingual guide service Spanish / English.

Detailed itinerary

We leave from the hotel by national route Nº3 towards the Olivia valley and then the Carabajal valley. After a 20 minutes transfer to the beginning of the trail, we get ready to check the necessary equipment (snowshoes, crampons, trekking poles, thermal clothing without exception, etc.).

Stop 2 Pass by

During our hike we will find imposing landscapes, the Carvajal valley surrounded by the Andes, the Fuegian forest, the peat bogs, the glaciers and the snow-capped peaks, are the frame for your best photos of Ushuaia. Approaching the Emerald River

Stop 3

Approaching the emerald river, we anticipate that the end of the outbound section is near, a few more steps and the Emerald Lagoon in winter version, covered with snow and completely frozen, appears in front of us in a surprising way. In this magical place we will enjoy a box lunch and a hot drink. After touring the surroundings and the photo session, we start the return leg of the trail.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Food: box lunch (granola bar, alfajor, mineral water, fruit, hot drink, sandwich), options for vegetarians, celiacs and vegans.

Type of Experience: Moderate to demanding physical activity. Suitable for all types of physically fit travelers. With exposure to the weather.

Necessary clothing: Waterproof jacket + fleece jacket. Waterproof footwear with good traction. Hat or cap, ear muffs, gloves. Sunglasses and sunscreen. Backpack to carry personal belongings and box lunch.

Note: depending on the conditions of the trail and the weather at the moment of starting the trekking, the guide will inform about the equipment to be used (trekking poles, crampons, snowshoes) and its correct use. The guide will also provide information about the different terrains to be traversed and the precautions to be taken into account during the hike.

About Ushuaia

Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world, located on the shores of the Beagle Channel. Known for its dramatic landscapes, adventure tourism, and as the gateway to Antarctica, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history. The city is a hub for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and cultural exploration in the rugged Patagonian wilderness.

Top Attractions

Tierra del Fuego National Park

This stunning national park is located just outside Ushuaia and offers breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Nature Half day to full day Moderate (Entrance fee around $10 USD)

Martial Mountain

Martial Mountain offers stunning views of Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel. The summit can be reached by hiking or taking the chairlift, which operates seasonally.

Nature/Adventure 2-3 hours for hiking, 30 minutes for chairlift Moderate (Chairlift around $15 USD, hiking is free)

Museo Marítimo y del Presidio

This maritime museum is housed in a former prison and offers a fascinating look at the history of Ushuaia and the region. Exhibits include artifacts from the prison era, as well as displays on the city's maritime heritage.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (Entrance fee around $5 USD)

Beagle Channel

The Beagle Channel is a stunning waterway that runs through Ushuaia and offers boat tours, wildlife viewing, and scenic views. It's a must-do activity for visitors to the city.

Nature 2-4 hours for boat tours Moderate to Expensive (Boat tours range from $30-$100 USD)

End of the World Train (Tren del Fin del Mundo)

This historic train journey takes you through the Tierra del Fuego National Park, offering stunning views of the landscape and insights into the region's history. The train runs on a narrow-gauge track and is a unique and memorable experience.

Historical/Cultural 1.5 hours for the full journey Moderate to Expensive (Around $25-$50 USD for the full journey)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Centolla (King Crab)

A delicacy of the region, king crab is typically served steamed or grilled, with melted butter for dipping. The sweet and tender meat is a highlight of any visit to Ushuaia.

Main Course Gluten-free, low-carb

Cordero al Asador (Roast Lamb)

Patagonian lamb is a specialty in Ushuaia, often roasted over an open fire and served with chimichurri sauce. The meat is tender and flavorful, with a unique taste that reflects the region's rugged landscape.

Main Course Gluten-free, high-protein

Merluza Negra (Black Hake)

A type of fish found in the cold waters of the Beagle Channel, black hake is typically grilled or fried and served with lemon and herbs. It's a light and flavorful dish that's popular with locals and visitors alike.

Main Course Gluten-free, low-fat

Pan de Arbol (Tree Bread)

A unique bread from the Tierra del Fuego region, pan de árbol is shaped like a tree and has a crispy crust and soft interior. It's often served with butter or jam and is a delicious accompaniment to any meal.

Bread Vegetarian, contains gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing and snowboarding Boat tours Wildlife viewing Mountain biking Spa treatments Scenic drives Wine and beer tasting

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season in Ushuaia, with the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and exploring the city's attractions. However, it can be crowded, and accommodations are more expensive.

5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) 41°F to 59°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken (in tourist areas, limited in rural areas)

Currency

Argentine Peso (ARS)

Time Zone

GMT-3 (Argentine Time, ART)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Ushuaia is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in tourist areas, so it's important to keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings
• Avoid isolated areas, especially at night
• Use reputable tour operators and guides

Getting there

By air

Ushuaia International Airport • 4 km (2.5 miles) from city center

By bus

Ushuaia Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and efficient, with routes covering most of the city and connections to popular tourist destinations like Tierra del Fuego National Park. Buses are reliable but may have limited schedules outside peak hours.

Taxis

Available

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Ushuaia Bahía Ensenada Cerro Albatros

Day trips

Tierra del Fuego National Park

11 km (7 miles) • Half day to full day

This stunning national park offers breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Estancia Harberton

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

This historic estate is one of the oldest in Tierra del Fuego and offers a fascinating look at the region's history. Visitors can explore the estate, museum, and surrounding natural beauty.

Cape Horn

100 km (62 miles) • Full day

Cape Horn is the southernmost tip of South America and one of the most remote and rugged places on Earth. It's a challenging but rewarding destination for adventurous travelers.

Festivals

Fiesta Nacional del Centolla • January Festival Internacional de Cine de Ushuaia • August Fiesta de la Nieve • July

Pro tips

Visit during the shoulder or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and save money
Pack layers and waterproof outerwear, as the weather can be unpredictable
Book accommodations and popular activities well in advance, especially during peak season
Consider hiring a local guide or joining a group tour for a more immersive and informative experience
Try the local cuisine, including king crab, lamb, and traditional Argentine dishes