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Day Trips From Ushuaia

The most Popular Day Trips

Most Popular Day Trips from Ushuaia

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Everything you need to know about Day Trips from Ushuaia

Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, serves as a gateway to adventure in Tierra del Fuego. While the city itself offers plenty to explore, the surrounding areas are teeming with natural wonders and unique experiences. Here are some of the best day trips from Ushuaia that will leave you in awe of the region’s beauty and diversity.

1. Tierra del Fuego National Park

A day trip to Tierra del Fuego National Park is an absolute must when visiting Ushuaia. Just 12 kilometers west of the city, this stunning park encompasses 63,000 hectares of diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to subantarctic forests. Highlights of the park include:

  • Hiking trails: Choose from various routes, such as the Coastal Path (Senda Costera) or the Cerro Guanaco trail for panoramic views.
  • Lapataia Bay: Witness where the Andes meet the sea and take iconic photos at the “End of the World” sign.
  • Beaver dams: Observe the impact of these introduced species on the local ecosystem.
  • Birdwatching: Spot Magellanic woodpeckers, condors, and various waterfowl species.

To make the most of your day trip to Tierra del Fuego National Park, consider taking the End of the World Train (Tren del Fin del Mundo) into the park. This historic narrow-gauge railway offers a unique perspective on the landscape and its history.

2. Beagle Channel Cruise

Embark on a day trip to the Beagle Channel, the iconic waterway separating Tierra del Fuego from smaller islands to the south. These boat tours typically last 3-4 hours and offer breathtaking views of Ushuaia’s coastline and the surrounding mountains. Key attractions include:

  • Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse: Known as the “Lighthouse at the End of the World,” this iconic red and white structure is a must-see.
  • Sea lion colonies: Observe these playful creatures lounging on rocky islets.
  • Bird Islands: Spot cormorants, skuas, and possibly even Magellanic penguins (seasonal).
  • Bridges Islands: Learn about the indigenous Yámana people who once inhabited these islands.

For a more intimate experience, consider booking a smaller catamaran or sailboat tour. These often provide closer encounters with wildlife and a more personalized narration of the area’s history and ecology.

3. Estancia Harberton

A day trip to Estancia Harberton offers a glimpse into the region’s pioneering past and its unique ecosystem. Located about 85 kilometers east of Ushuaia, this historic ranch was founded in 1886 by Anglican missionary Thomas Bridges. Today, it serves as a working farm, museum, and research station. Highlights include:

  • Guided tours of the main house and outbuildings
  • Marine mammal museum with an impressive collection of skeletons
  • Boat trips to nearby Martillo Island to see Magellanic and Gentoo penguins (seasonal)
  • Nature walks through lengas forests and along the Beagle Channel coast

To reach Estancia Harberton, you can drive, take a guided tour, or combine a boat trip through the Beagle Channel with a visit to the estancia for a full day of exploration.

4. Martial Glacier

For spectacular views of Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel, take a day trip to Martial Glacier. Located just 7 kilometers from the city center, this easily accessible glacier offers both scenic beauty and outdoor activities. Here’s what you can do:

  • Ride the chairlift for panoramic views (operates in summer and winter)
  • Hike to the glacier’s base (about 1.5-2 hours round trip)
  • Enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding (June to September)
  • Visit the tea house for a warm drink and Argentinian pastries

The hike to Martial Glacier is moderate in difficulty, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring water. In winter, the area transforms into a small ski resort, perfect for those looking to hit the slopes at the end of the world.

5. Lago Escondido and Lago Fagnano

Venture north of Ushuaia for a day trip to two stunning lakes: Lago Escondido (Hidden Lake) and Lago Fagnano. This journey takes you through the heart of Tierra del Fuego, offering diverse landscapes and outdoor activities. The itinerary typically includes:

  • Scenic drive through Garibaldi Pass, the southernmost point of the Andes
  • Photo stops at Lago Escondido, a small, mirror-like lake surrounded by mountains
  • Leisure time at Lago Fagnano, one of the largest lakes in Tierra del Fuego
  • Optional activities like fishing, kayaking, or short hikes (depending on the tour)

This day trip to Lago Escondido and Lago Fagnano is perfect for those who want to experience the diverse geography of Tierra del Fuego, from mountains to forests to expansive lakes.

6. Gable Island

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, consider a day trip to Gable Island. This remote island in the Beagle Channel offers pristine nature and a chance to walk where few others have tread. A typical tour includes:

  • Scenic boat ride through the Beagle Channel
  • Visit to a Magellanic penguin colony on Martillo Island (seasonal)
  • Guided hike on Gable Island, exploring its diverse ecosystems
  • Traditional Fuegian asado (barbecue) lunch
  • Opportunity to canoe in the waters around the island

This day trip to Gable Island often combines with a visit to Estancia Harberton, making for a full day of history, nature, and unique Patagonian experiences.

7. Emerald Lagoon

Hidden within Tierra del Fuego National Park, Emerald Lagoon (Laguna Esmeralda) is a gem worth discovering. This day trip involves a moderate hike through varied terrain, rewarding you with stunning views of a turquoise lagoon nestled in a valley. The experience includes:

  • Guided hike through lenga forests and peat bogs (about 4-5 hours round trip)
  • Breathtaking views of the lagoon and surrounding mountains
  • Opportunity to see local flora and fauna
  • Picnic lunch by the lagoon (bring your own or book a tour with lunch included)

This day trip to Emerald Lagoon is perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The unique color of the lagoon, created by minerals from the surrounding rocks, makes for unforgettable photos.

8. Cape Horn

For the ultimate day trip from Ushuaia, consider a flight to Cape Horn. While technically not a “day trip” in the traditional sense, it’s possible to visit this legendary landmark in a single day from Ushuaia. The experience typically includes:

  • Scenic flight over the Beagle Channel and Drake Passage
  • Landing on Horn Island (weather permitting)
  • Visit to the Cape Horn monument and lighthouse
  • Exploration of the Cape Horn National Park

This day trip to Cape Horn is weather-dependent and quite expensive, but it offers the chance to stand at the southernmost point of South America, where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet.

Ushuaia’s strategic location at the “End of the World” makes it an ideal base for exploring some of Patagonia’s most striking landscapes and unique ecosystems. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, history, outdoor adventures, or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, these day trips offer something for every traveler. Remember to pack appropriate clothing, as Tierra del Fuego’s weather can be unpredictable, and book your excursions in advance, especially during the peak summer season (December to March). With these unforgettable day trips, your visit to Ushuaia will be filled with wonder, adventure, and memories to last a lifetime.

Day Trips From Ushuaia