Things To Do
in Ushuaia

Ushuaia, known as the southernmost city in the world, is nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Beagle Channel in Argentina. This picturesque city serves as a gateway to Antarctica and offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore stunning landscapes, including glaciers and forests, while enjoying local cuisine and outdoor activities.

Ushuaia is truly a place where adventure meets tranquility, attracting travelers from around the globe.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Ushuaia
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Maritime Museum and learn about the city's history as a naval base. Explore the nearby Presidio Museum for a glimpse into the lives of early settlers.

afternoon
:

Take a scenic boat tour on the Beagle Channel, where you can witness sea lions and stunning landscapes. Enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant with views of the surrounding mountains.

evening
:

Stroll along the waterfront, savoring local seafood for dinner at a quaint restaurant. End your day with a visit to the local shops and perhaps try some Argentine wine.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Nature
morning
:

Embark on a hike at Tierra del Fuego National Park, where you can enjoy breathtaking scenery and unique flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit the End of the World Train for a scenic ride through the park, stopping to take in the incredible views. Have lunch at a nearby café offering traditional Argentine dishes.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Asado (Argentine barbecue) dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a nightcap at a bar featuring local music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15 - $30
Coffee$2 - $5
🍺Local beer$3 - $6
🚖Taxi ride (short distance)$5 - $10
🛍️Souvenir$5 - $20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural and historical experiences.
  • Unique dining options with fresh seafood.
  • Remote location can make travel challenging.
  • Weather can be unpredictable and often cold.
  • Higher prices compared to other Argentine cities.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Ushuaia

Visit one of these nice places.

Glacier Martial

A stunning viewpoint that provides panoramic views of Ushuaia and the surrounding glaciers.

Beagle Channel

Capture breathtaking landscapes of the channel, especially at sunset.

Tierra del Fuego National Park

A diverse landscape of mountains, forests, and lakes, perfect for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ushuaia

Ushuaia is a culinary delight, particularly known for its fresh seafood and hearty Argentine meats. Visitors should not miss the chance to try local specialties that reflect the region's unique flavors.

Ushuaia Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Centolla

A type of king crab, often served with garlic and butter.

Must-Try!

Cordero al Palo

Patagonian lamb cooked over an open flame.

Merluza Negra

Black hake, a popular fish dish in the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feria Artesanal

A local artisan market where you can find homemade foods and crafts.

Street Food Stalls

Try empanadas and choripán from various street vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ushuaia experiences a subpolar oceanic climate, characterized by cool temperatures year-round. Summers are mild with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), while winters can drop to -2°C (28°F). Rain is common throughout the year, with the wettest months being March and April. It's essential to dress in layers and prepare for unpredictable weather.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a kiss on the cheek is common when meeting someone.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal.

Punctuality

Being slightly late is generally acceptable, but it's best to arrive close to the scheduled time.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ushuaia is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, and keep valuables secure. It's wise to stay informed about local weather conditions, especially when engaging in outdoor activities.

Tipping in Ushuaia

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A tip of 10% is customary at restaurants, but check if the service charge is included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (September to November)

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make this a lovely time to explore the outdoors.

Summer (December to February)

The warmest months, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities, with long daylight hours.

Autumn (March to May)

Beautiful fall colors transform the landscape, though weather can be unpredictable.

Winter (June to August)

Cold and snowy, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts and seeing the stunning winter scenery.

Nightlife Guide

Ushuaia at Night

Ushuaia offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The local bars often feature Argentine wines and craft beers, while nightclubs provide a lively atmosphere for dancing. Many establishments host live music, showcasing local talent and creating a fun, social environment.

Hiking in Ushuaia

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Laguna Esmeralda

A stunning hike that leads to a vibrant turquoise lagoon surrounded by mountains.

Sendero a los Glaciares

A moderate trail offering spectacular views of glaciers and diverse wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Ushuaia by plane.

Ushuaia – Malvinas Argentinas International Airport (USH)

Located just 5 km from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ushuaia is a walkable city with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. The downtown area, where most shops, restaurants, and attractions are located, can easily be explored on foot. However, some attractions are farther away, and public transportation or taxis may be needed to access them.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Mostly composed of Argentines, with a mix of indigenous communities and settlers from other parts of Argentina.

Tourists

A significant number of visitors come from Europe and North America, especially during the summer months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hiking

Popular among locals and tourists, with numerous trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs.

Skiing

Cerro Castor attracts winter sports enthusiasts from all over, offering diverse slopes for all skill levels.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ushuaia is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect different areas of the city, but many visitors prefer walking to enjoy the scenery. Parking can be limited in busy areas, especially during peak tourist season.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ushuaia.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, though options may be limited.

Gluten-Free

Some places cater to gluten-free diets, but it's advisable to check with staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Ushuaia has a public hospital and several private clinics offering healthcare services. Basic medical care is accessible, but for serious conditions, patients may be referred to larger hospitals in mainland Argentina. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers international medical expenses.

Discover Argentina

Read more in our Argentina 2025 Travel Guide.

Argentina Travel Guide