Explore Ushuaia: The End of the World Travel Guide for Adventurers
After nearly 30 hours of flying and three layovers, I finally set foot in the city at the end of the world—Ushuaia. My first encounter with this place was through the movie “Happy Together,” which romantically described it as a place where the broken-hearted go to leave their sorrows behind, symbolized by a lighthouse standing at the edge of the world.
As a gateway to Antarctica, Ushuaia exudes an isolated and haunting charm. This time, I had the chance to witness the legendary lighthouse. While waiting for my Antarctic expedition, I discovered several captivating spots in the town that are well worth exploring.
🌈 Tierra del Fuego National Park: A must-visit attraction in Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego National Park offers a unique experience. You can send postcards from the End of the World Post Office, run by a laid-back old man who often keeps irregular hours. Don’t miss the train to the end of the world, a journey that can be experienced in three ways: 1.
Join a half-day tour; 2. Take a bus from the terminal, which stops at three points, ideal for hiking with three distinct trails; 3. If you’re in a group, hire a taxi for a more personalized visit to all the key sites.
🌈 Beagle Channel Cruise: An absolute highlight, I opted for the 3-hour cruise, which includes a 25-minute hike on a small island, offering close encounters with seabirds, sea lions, and, of course, the iconic lighthouse. For a more extended adventure, the 5-hour cruise takes you to Penguin Island to see penguins up close.
Departures are available every morning and afternoon. Book a day in advance at the pier or, if you prefer, on-site. The pier is lined with charming travel agencies in small houses, making it easy to compare and choose the best option.
🌈 City Walk
Despite its compact size, Ushuaia is a walker’s paradise, though you can also join a City Tour by bus. The main street, Saint Martin, is dotted with souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes, though prices can be steep. Here are some must-see spots:
1. Ushuaia fin del mundo: A quaint sign marking the end of the world, located at a small house on the pier, perfect for a memorable photo.
2. Ushuaia: A landmark with striking white lettering.
3. Penguin Wall: Navigate to Cafe Xpresso 🐧 to find this delightful mural.
4. Ushuaia Tourist Information Office: Near the pier, this tourist center offers a unique stamp to commemorate your visit.
5. Coastal Walkway: Stroll along the scenic coastal path from Cartel Ushuaia to Base Naval Ushuaia, enjoying the refreshing sea breeze.
6. Maritime Museum (Old Ushuaia Prison): This fascinating museum, housed in a former prison, showcases maritime and penal history.
🦀 Recommended Restaurants for King Crab:
– Bamboo: The southernmost Chinese restaurant in the world, also offering a buffet.
– El Viejo Marino: Renowned for its king crab, this popular spot often has long queues, but it’s worth the wait.
