Ushuaia: porta de entrada para a Antártida

Partner links: LarkTours compares options from partners and may earn a commission if you book through some links, at no extra cost to you. LarkTours is not the seller. Prices and availability are set by each provider, so check details on their site before you book.

Ushuaia, capital of Argentina's Tierra del Fuego province, sits on the Beagle Channel and is often called the southernmost city in the world. Most Antarctic Peninsula expeditions depart from its port.

Getting there

Ushuaia's airport (USH) has flights from Buenos Aires, mostly from Aeroparque Jorge Newbery, and some from El Calafate and other Argentine cities. International travellers usually connect in Buenos Aires. Check whether your arrival and connection use Ezeiza (EZE) or Aeroparque (AEP), because moving between them takes time. Search routes on Search flights (partner).

What to do

• Beagle Channel boat trips, past sea-lion colonies and the Les Eclaireurs lighthouse. Some trips go to a penguin colony in season.
• Tierra del Fuego National Park, a short drive west, with lakes, forest and coastal trails.
• Southern Fuegian Railway ("End of the World Train"), a tourist steam train into the park area.
• Maritime Museum and former prison, which tell the story of the town's origins as a penal colony.
• Martial Glacier hike above town.

Practical tips

• Arrive at least one day before your ship sails. This gives you a buffer for flight delays and lost bags.
• The weather changes fast even in summer. Layers and a windproof jacket are essential.
• Ships usually board in the afternoon. Check your operator's luggage drop arrangements.

A two-day plan before sailing

Day 1: Arrive, check in and walk along the waterfront and San Martín street. Visit the Maritime Museum in the old prison and buy any last-minute gear.

Day 2: Spend the morning in Tierra del Fuego National Park. You could take the train, walk the coastal trail, or go to the end of Route 3 at Bahía Lapataia. Head to the port in the afternoon for boarding.

If you have a third day, add a Beagle Channel boat trip or the Martial Glacier hike.

Weather

Even in the southern summer, Ushuaia can be cool, windy and wet, and conditions change through the day. Long summer daylight helps you fit in activities after a delayed flight.

Gear shopping

Outdoor shops in town sell layers, gloves and hats, but range and sizes vary. Bring your essentials from home and use Ushuaia for top-ups. Check your expedition operator's kit list for what's provided, such as boots or a parka.

Food

Ushuaia is known for king crab (centolla) and Patagonian lamb, and its waterfront restaurants are busy on departure days. Book ahead if you want a final dinner before sailing.

Money and connectivity

Argentina's payment landscape can change quickly. Check current guidance on cards and cash before you travel. Mobile data works in town, but once the ship leaves, connectivity becomes limited, slow or paid.

After the voyage

Many travellers add Patagonia after Antarctica: El Calafate for the Perito Moreno Glacier, or El Chaltén for hiking. Both are reached by flights or long road trips. Remember that return ships usually dock early in the morning, so leave a buffer before onward flights.

Tierra del Fuego National Park

The park was created by Argentine law in 1960 and protects about 68,900 hectares of Patagonian forest, according to Argentina's national parks administration. It is Argentina's southernmost national park, where the last stretch of the Andes meets the Beagle Channel, about 10 km west of Ushuaia. The forests are dominated by southern beech species such as lenga and ñire. For a short visit, the coastal path towards Bahía Lapataia and the walks near Lago Roca are popular, and both suit a half day before you board. Entry is paid at the park gate. Check current hours, fees and trail conditions with the park administration before you go, and keep to the marked trails, because weather changes quickly.

Checklist

• Arrive in Ushuaia at least one day before sailing.
• Confirm the operator's luggage drop time and boarding location.
• Keep your passport, medication and a warm layer in your hand luggage.
• Have any health forms completed and printed.
• Buy last-minute gear in town if you need it.

FAQ

How many days should I spend in Ushuaia?

At least one full day before sailing is the common recommendation, and two is more relaxed.

Is the End of the World Train worth it?

It's a scenic, touristy experience that many enjoy, especially with children. Hikers may prefer walking the park's trails.

Can I see penguins from Ushuaia?

In season, some Beagle Channel boat trips visit or pass a penguin colony on Isla Martillo. A limited number of tours allow walking among the birds.

Is Ushuaia expensive?

Prices in Argentina can change quickly. We don't quote figures, so check current conditions before you go.

Pre-book an Ushuaia airport (USH) transfer on Kiwitaxi (partner): search 'Ushuaia' on its Argentina page. Insurance with expedition cover: EKTA (partner). Mobile data for Argentina: Airalo (partner). If a flight is significantly delayed or cancelled, AirHelp (partner) can check whether you're eligible for compensation. Eligibility depends on the route, the airline and the rules that apply.