Ushuaia’s End of the World Train and Beagle Channel wildlife cruises give visitors both a scenic ride through Tierra del Fuego National Park and close encounters with penguins and sea lions at the edge of the world.

Why Visit Ushuaia

As the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia serves as the primary gateway to Antarctic expeditions while offering its own dramatic subpolar scenery, glaciers, and wildlife along the Beagle Channel.

Top Experiences in Ushuaia

  • End of the World Train Ride: This narrow-gauge railway follows the route once used by prisoners logging the surrounding forest, now offering scenic views through Tierra del Fuego National Park.
  • Beagle Channel Wildlife Cruise: A boat trip along this historic channel offers sightings of sea lion colonies, cormorant colonies, and the iconic lighthouse at the end of the world.
  • Tierra del Fuego National Park Hike: This subpolar park at the southern tip of Argentina offers hiking trails through forests and along coastlines with views toward Chile.
  • Martial Glacier Hike: A trail leading up toward this glacier just outside Ushuaia offers panoramic views over the city and the Beagle Channel below.
  • Penguin Colony Boat Excursion: Extended boat tours reach nearby islands home to Magellanic and, seasonally, gentoo penguin colonies in their natural habitat.

Book Tours & Activities in Ushuaia

From the End of the World Train to Beagle Channel cruises, these tours cover Ushuaia’s role as gateway to Antarctica and Tierra del Fuego’s wildlife.

Premium Albino Eye Glacier Trekking For Small Groups

Premium Albino Eye Glacier Trekking For Small Groups

★ 5.0 (40)
From USD 160
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Escondido and Fagnano Lakes 4x4 OFF ROAD

Escondido and Fagnano Lakes 4x4 OFF ROAD

★ 5.0 (40)
From USD 170
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Trekking Vinciguerra Glacier and Laguna de los Témpanos

Trekking Vinciguerra Glacier and Laguna de los Témpanos

★ 5.0 (31)
From USD 150
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Trekking to Ojo del Albino Glacier

Trekking to Ojo del Albino Glacier

★ 5.0 (28)
From USD 185
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Small Group Guided Trek Tour to Ojo del Albino Glacier

Small Group Guided Trek Tour to Ojo del Albino Glacier

★ 5.0 (28)
From USD 160
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Guided Penguin Watching Tour and Centolla Route

Guided Penguin Watching Tour and Centolla Route

★ 5.0 (21)
From USD 250
View Price & Book Tour on Viator

Practical Tips for Visiting Ushuaia

  • The End of the World Train combines well with a Tierra del Fuego National Park visit on the same day.
  • Beagle Channel cruises vary in length, longer options are needed to reach penguin colonies.
  • Ushuaia’s weather changes quickly even in summer, pack layers regardless of season.
  • Martial Glacier’s trail can be muddy, sturdy waterproof footwear is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you see penguins from Ushuaia?

Yes, extended boat excursions to nearby islands offer sightings of Magellanic penguin colonies, with gentoo penguins present seasonally.

Is Ushuaia really the southernmost city in the world?

Yes, it holds that distinction and serves as the main departure point for most Antarctic cruise expeditions.

Final Thoughts

Ushuaia’s subpolar wilderness, wildlife-rich channel, and status as gateway to Antarctica make it one of the most remarkable and remote destinations on earth.