Ushuaia Discover the Last City Before Antarctica
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
How did an island of sea hunters become a prison and later Argentina’s southern hub? Why did native people live in the cold without clothes? Where is the real “Lighthouse at the End of the World”from Jules Verne’s novel? How do you build a house the Fuegian way?
We’ll guide you through the history of Tierra del Fuego and Ushuaia, showing the city through local eyes. Discover the Yaghan and Selknam peoples, the role of Charles Darwin, the Argentine navy’s arrival, a Fuegian girl taken to 19th-century London, and why the city now has over 300 murals.
Perfect for active travelers who want more than postcard views, curious explorers, photography and art lovers, families, and anyone eager to learn through adventure.
We’ll walk outdoors, so dress warmly. The tour can focus on your interests or be fully private. The tour is led by me or my wife, Vika.
Available options
Group of 2 guests
Group size
Group of 10 to 20 guests
Group size
Group of 6 to 9 guests
Group size
Group of 3 to 5 guest
Group size
What's included
Professional guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We’ll start at the old prison, but don’t worry, it’s a museum now.
Here you’ll find fascinating stories about the early days of life on the island and its pioneers, tales of repeat offenders, colonial fashion, and Ushuaia’s own gingerbread-style houses.
We don’t go inside the museum — only into its courtyards and around the exterior.
2
We’ll walk to the Prefectura Naval. It was the navy and their service that founded the city here.
How did a small military outpost at the end of the world turn into a town of nearly 100,000 people in just a century? What was life in Ushuaia like before airplanes arrived? We’ll talk about that. And we’ll also see examples of traditional early 20th-century architecture.
3
Stop 3
Your next stop is the End of the World Museum. In its hidden courtyard, we’ll talk about the history of the Beagle Channel and what it’s like today.
Who lived on these harsh shores before Europeans arrived? What fires did Ferdinand Magellan see on the coast? And was it true that some local tribes practiced cannibalism?
4
Stop 4
We’ll talk about what Ushuaia is like today — how many cruise ships arrive each season, and how many of them sail to Antarctica.
You’ll also learn how to catch a last-minute deal for an Antarctic trip, and you can take a souvenir photo with the famous “End of the World” sign to show everyone back home how far you’ve made it!
5
At the Monument to Pioneers and Old Settlers, I’ll tell you about Ushuaia’s immigrant past and present — how Croatians and Italians found their way to the end of the world, and what the albatross has to do with it.
6
The Paseo de Artesanos craft fair is a small covered market in the city center where local artisans sell wool goods, jewelry, and wood or leather crafts. It’s a great place to feel the city’s authentic side and support local makers. We’ll stop by briefly to see real Fuegian handcrafts.
7
The waterfront, the sunken ship, and the Old Town. Italians, English, Germans, Romanians — you’ll find people from all over the world here.
As we walk, you’ll get a sense of how different nationalities left their mark on Tierra del Fuego, and how today the island brings together immigrant stories from across the globe.
8
The Salesians arrived in Ushuaia in the late 19th century, bringing education and faith to this remote land. They built the city’s first Catholic church and later the Don Bosco school, which became a center of learning and community life. Their legacy shaped Ushuaia’s early spiritual and social foundation.
9
The USHUAIA sign by the bay is the city’s most iconic spot — a symbol of the “End of the World.” Installed in 2016, it marks the gateway to Antarctica. It’s the perfect place for a photo with the mountains and ships in the background.
What's not included
Private transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
RU
EN
ES
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
This is the meeting point for passengers arriving in our city by sea — on the round pedestrian square, right in front of the port exit, under the Argentine flag.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
