Ushuaia 2026: 10 must-sees and how to live the end of the world

Ushuaia, the City at the End of the World, offers a unique contrast between the snowy peaks of the Andes Mountain Range and the icy waters of the Beagle Channel.

We spent a whole month in Ushuaia, and it stole our hearts. We arrived with moderate expectations and ended up completely in love. Going through intense snowfalls, gray days, and others incredibly clear.

It wasn't so much the city itself that conquered us, but the environment that surrounds it. The mountains are always present, the landscape changes every hour, and nature feels close, constant. From almost any point, the silhouette of Monte Olivia stands out, elegant and dominant, reminding you where you are.

Ushuaia is a destination with a lot to do, but also one that invites you to slow down, look around, and let yourself be carried away by the weather, the wind, and the southern light.

10 Must-Sees in Ushuaia

1- Laguna Esmeralda – Probably the most popular trekking in Ushuaia. Very photogenic and accessible.

2- Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse – One of the most recognizable symbols of Ushuaia, located on the Beagle Channel.

Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse, Ushuaia, Argentina.

3- Ushuaia Prison (Maritime and Prison Museum) - It is the number one cultural visit. The city was born around this prison, making it an essential visit to understand the origin of the city.

4- End of the World Museum - Ideal for understanding the history of the native peoples (Yámanas) and shipwrecks.

End of the World Museum, Ushuaia, Argentina.

5- Tierra del Fuego National Park – One of the few national parks in the country that combines forest, mountain, and sea coast. Well-marked trails and classic Fuegian landscapes.

Tierra del Fuego National Park, Ushuaia, Argentina.

6- Beagle Channel – A fundamental part of the city's identity. Navigating it allows you to appreciate Ushuaia from another perspective and observe islands and fauna.

The Beagle Channel bathes the coast of the city of Ushuaia, Argentina.

7- Martial Glacier – Short but demanding walk, with panoramic views of the city and the channel.

The Martial Glacier, a cirque glacier that acts as the most important fresh water reserve for the city of Ushuaia. Currently the ski lifts are under renovation, so the ascent to the front of the glacier is done on foot.

8- End of the World Train – Historical route that recalls the past of the old prison, crossing very characteristic natural landscapes.

The End of the World Train, in Ushuaia, Argentina.

9- Ushuaia Viewpoints – From different elevated points, you get open views of the channel, the mountains, and the city.

Just a few minutes from downtown, the Martial Glacier offers one of the best panoramic views of the city and the Beagle Channel.

10- Martillo Island (penguin colony) – One of the most iconic excursions in the area, visitable by navigating the Beagle Channel.

Martillo Island, in the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia, Argentina.

What to Eat in Ushuaia

Fuegian king crab – The most representative product of the area. It is usually served fresh, in simple preparations.

Patagonian toothfish – Typical southern fish, with a soft texture and deep flavor.

Patagonian lamb – Highly present in local restaurants, ideal for cold days.

Trout and river fish – Frequent choices on Fuegian menus, generally accompanied by simple side dishes.

Chocolate and regional sweets – Perfect to accompany the cold and windy weather.

Where to Eat in Ushuaia

Iconic Places:

El Viejo Marino: To eat king crab (it is the classic par excellence).

Bodegón Fueguino: For Patagonian lamb.

Ramos Generales El Almacén: A historic place that is a café, museum, and restaurant all at once.

In the center of the image, Monte Olivia is the undisputed guardian of Ushuaia. With its 1,326 meters, it is the highest and most photogenic peak around the city, standing out for its jagged pyramid shape.

How to Get Around in Ushuaia

Public buses: They cover the city well. You pay exclusively with the SUBE card, which can be obtained at local kiosks.

Taxis/Remises: They work very well and are a common option to go to the Martial Glacier or Laguna Esmeralda if you don't rent a car.

Shuttles: From downtown (in front of the pier) vans leave with fixed schedules to the main trails.

The Bridges Archipelago, located in the heart of the Beagle Channel, a few kilometers from the coast of Ushuaia. It is a group of islands and islets that form a key ecosystem for marine fauna and local history. The tours starting from the tourist pier usually visit several points within the archipelago.

Tips and Characteristics

Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS).
Transport: The city is small and downtown can be easily explored on foot. For parks and distant excursions, it is convenient to rent a car or book a transfer.
Prices: Higher than the national average, especially in gastronomy and excursions.
Weather: Very changing throughout the year. Wind is frequent and the thermal sensation is usually low.
Best time to travel: From November to March, when there are more daylight hours and better conditions for outdoor activities.
Port Fee: To navigate the Beagle Channel you have to pay a port fee that is usually not included in the tour ticket.
Clothing: The weather is unpredictable. The golden rule is to dress in 'layers' (onion style): a thermal first layer, a warm layer (fleece), and a waterproof/windbreaker layer, even in summer.
Traveler data: In Ushuaia, plans depend a lot on the weather. It is convenient to have alternatives and take advantage of each window of good weather. In summer there is daylight from approximately 5 AM until 11 PM, ideal for extending outdoor journeys.

The base of the Martial Glacier is located just 7 kilometers from downtown Ushuaia, which represents a journey of approximately 15 minutes by car or taxi along Luis Fernando Martial street. There at the base is the tea house 'La Cabaña Tea House', as well as some bars, restaurants, and ski and snowboard schools.

Our Experience Traveling Through Ushuaia

Ushuaia is enjoyed with patience and warm clothes. It is a city that invites you to adapt to the weather, to change plans according to the wind or rain, and to enjoy the moments when the sky opens up.

The combination of extreme landscapes, history, and daily life makes it a very special destination. Traveling to Ushuaia is feeling that you have reached a geographical limit, but also a place with its own identity that leaves a strong and lasting impression.

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