Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park: Ushuaia, Argentina Travel Guide
Here’s some valuable information I gathered before my trip, which might be useful for your own adventure.
One of the most iconic destinations for visitors to Ushuaia is the breathtaking Tierra del Fuego National Park, home to the world-famous southernmost post office. The park is just a 30-minute drive from the city center, making it easily accessible. A leisurely sightseeing tour within the park can be completed in 2-3 hours. If you decide to hop on the small train, add an extra hour to your itinerary. The duration for hiking, however, depends on your pace and preferences.
The main attractions and activities in Tierra del Fuego National Park include:
1. **Riding the End of the World Train**: The current ticket price is 50,000 pesos, and only round-trip tickets are available. You’ll also need to purchase a separate entrance ticket for the park. While there’s plenty of information about this experience on Xiaohongshu, many find the cost-effectiveness to be low, and international reviews are mixed.
2. **Visiting the Southernmost Post Office**: This picturesque spot is a must-see, even though the post office itself is often closed. The surrounding scenery is simply stunning, making it a perfect photo opportunity.
3. **Coastal Hike to Alakush Restaurant**: A 4-hour hike along the coast from the post office to the Alakush restaurant in the park offers a mix of scenic views. According to AllTrails, the first third of the coastal trail is the most beautiful, while the rest is more average. If you have a car or hire a private vehicle, consider walking along the coast for 40 minutes from the post office and then returning to drive to the restaurant.
This way, you can enjoy the best parts of the trail without the full commitment.
4. **Exploring Mirador Lago Roca and Beyond**: Visit the scenic viewpoint at Mirador Lago Roca, where you can also find a hiking trail along the lake. Don’t miss the end of Route 3, where you can take a leisurely walk on the boardwalk. These spots offer a serene and picturesque experience, perfect for nature lovers.
Ways to Get to Tierra del Fuego National Park and Their Pros and Cons:
1. **Renting a Car and Driving Yourself:**
This was our choice, as we planned to hike to Emerald Lake. Driving offers the ultimate freedom and flexibility, allowing you to set your own schedule. The roads are in good condition, and within the park, the gravel roads have a manageable speed limit of 40 km/h. The rental cost, including full insurance, is approximately $75 per day, making it a practical option for those who value independence.
2. **Hiring a Taxi:**
If you’re not planning to hike, hiring a taxi is an excellent choice, especially if you’re traveling with 2-4 people. Taxis offer a comfortable and stress-free ride, and the cost is comparable to renting a car. It’s a convenient way to explore the park without the hassle of driving.
3. **Taking the Bus from Ushuaia Bus Terminal:**
Ideal for hikers and solo travelers, the bus service is a budget-friendly option. The first bus departs at 9 am, stopping at various points such as the small train station, the park entrance, the post office, the restaurant, and the end of Route 3.
The fare is 30,000 pesos (25,000 in cash), and you can only choose one stop to get off and one to return from. Two popular itineraries include taking the 9 am bus to the post office, hiking along the coast for 4 hours to the restaurant, and then catching the 3 pm bus back to the city center. Alternatively, you can go to the train station, take the second train into the park, and hike from the train’s endpoint to the post office (a 30-minute walk with little scenery) before continuing to the restaurant and returning by bus.
Timing is crucial, so plan accordingly.
4. **Joining a Tour:**
If you’re traveling alone, not hiking, and want to experience the small train, a 5-hour guided tour might be perfect. These tours typically start at the train station, where you board the small train into the park. The tour bus then picks you up at the train’s endpoint, taking you to key spots like the post office, the restaurant, and the end of Route 3, before returning you to the city center.
While this option is great for solo travelers, it’s less appealing for groups of two or more, as it’s primarily for sightseeing and lacks the flexibility of a private taxi.
5. **Using Uber:**
Uber can only take you to the park entrance, and from there, it’s a 1-hour walk on a dirt road with no scenic views to the post office. Since there’s no cell signal in the park, you can’t call a car for the return trip. You would either need to hitchhike or walk all the way back to the park entrance to find a ride. This option is not recommended due to the long, uninteresting walk and the potential inconvenience.
