Ushuaia where everything begins, is the perfect destination for those who love to explore, escape the scorching summer heat, and enjoy the fresh breeze on their face-from the most vibrant nature to a dreamy urban environment.
My experience traveling to Ushuaia by Marcelo Yahari
I have traveled there twice already, and without a doubt, it’s a destination worth repeating. Small and cozy, it rests at the foot of eternally snow-capped mountains and just steps away from the most beautiful and blue southern sea I have ever seen.
Aerolíneas Argentinas offers several weekly flights, and in just over three hours, you arrive. The strategically located airport is very close to the city center.
The city of Ushuaia: a small, walkable gem
The city is a small gem: walkable, strollable, and adorable. At every step, you discover corners and characters. Its geography is simple: a main street plus two parallel ones, the coastal street, the next one toward the mountains, and their cross streets.
Accommodation and dining in Ushuaia
There are various lodging and dining options for all budgets:
- Luxurious hotels on high ground with wonderful views
- Mid-range hotels
- Well-equipped hostels for tourists
An important tip: at the end of the main street, very close by, there is a supermarket where you can find everything you need to balance your budget and not miss any attraction.
Things to do in Ushuaia: history and nature
The Prison Museum and historical heritage
For history lovers, there is a very important museum: the Prison Museum, which gave origin to the town. There you can see and experience the famous “Panopticon” device, from which everything could be watched but no one could see you-a concept discussed by Foucault and linked to the legendary “petiso orejudo.”
The guided tour is very enriching; guides narrate the city’s history from its first inhabitants, the Onas, to the present. There is also a flora and fauna section.
Outdoor walks and birdwatching
On sunny days, a walk along the waterfront is ideal for watching seabirds and beautiful docked boats. In gardens and plazas, you will see the beautiful and colorful lupines in all shades.
Locals gather at the waterfront promenade to drink mate in the afternoon sun by the canal, as well as run and bike. You can also admire the iconic Casino and its modern architecture.
The walk ends at the city Shopping Mall, which has a well-decorated food court with panoramic views of the coastal promenade. A tasty calafate-flavored ice cream is a must. If it rains, its shops and cinemas are perfect.
Must-do excursions in Ushuaia
Outside the city, you can hike on well-marked trails designed to preserve the environment, with routes suitable for different time availabilities.
Recommended excursions:
- Visit to Martial Glacier
- The End of the World Train, a charming narrow-gauge train that crosses much of the National Park
- Contemplate Laguna La Pataia and the End of the World Post Office
Typical gastronomy of Ushuaia
While alternating between city and surroundings, you can explore varied gastronomic offers. From old taverns with native dishes to modern restaurants, you can savor:
- Pizza and pasta
- The famous king crab (centolla)
- The renowned Patagonian lamb, a gourmet treasure sought by international tourists and demanding palates
Exploring the gastronomy without repeating dishes is a beautiful way to vibe with the southernmost city in the world. Large cruise ships with tourists from Europe and Asia arrive year-round.
Nightlife in Ushuaia
At night, a visit to the city’s Hard Rock Café is a must.
Boat tours on the Beagle Channel
At the port, the adventure is unimaginable. Various boats offer wonderful tours on the Beagle Channel, which inspired Jules Verne and his memorable “End of the World Lighthouse.”
The tour visits emblematic points such as:
- Bird Island
- Sea Lion Island
- The penguin colony
- A stop on an island to connect with local nature and flora
Finally, you arrive at the iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, majestic and perfect for typical photos before leisurely returning to shore.
Tips to enjoy Ushuaia
At sunset, a comforting snack of hot chocolate with toast and artisanal jams is ideal to regain energy. In summer, daylight extends until 10 p.m.
For sweet lovers, chocolate and jam stands and shops are perfect to taste exquisite chocolates and the tastiest jams made from calafate, elderberry, red fruits, and other delicacies.
Souvenirs and shopping in Ushuaia
Souvenir shops range from large commercial stores to small artisanal ones, each with its own identity and charm. One of the largest, located at the beginning of the main street, has a park decorated with sculptures perfect for fun photos.
As prized objects, I brought two beautiful Ushuaia mugs for my collection: one with my name and the city’s profile, a gift from friends on the island; the other entirely handmade, beautiful in design and print.
Near departure, there is a Duty Free (Free Shop) with a variety of products.
Official Tourism Secretariat, Municipalidad de Ushuaia
Ideal visit duration and conclusion
I stayed one week; on average, visitors stay less, but if you want to unplug and explore at a human and enjoyable pace, that’s advisable. Breathing pure air, enjoying views, flavors, and aromas are an integral part of the experience.
Ushuaia is not only a place where your body feels great but also where your soul renews. My warmest regards to the entire island for the beautiful vacations and lovely memories.
