Ushuaia at a glance
The southernmost city on Earth, Tierra del Fuego, the end of the world. Ushuaia carries a weight of expectation that fires up the imagination. Mention the Horn of Africa or the Strait of Magellan, and you immediately think of epic maritime expeditions. Today, Ushuaia is a much more accessible destination for travelers.
A unique position
Located at the extreme south of the American continent, Ushuaia occupies a strategic position between Chile and Argentina. It is also a popular jumping-off point for excursions to Yecapasela Island or trips to Antarctica. Ushuaia benefits from a dramatic natural setting. Bordered by the waters of the bay and the Beagle Channel on one side and high snow-capped mountains on the other, the town offers endless opportunities for hiking and sightseeing.
Before heading into the wilderness, take some time to explore the higher parts of Ushuaia for views over the hills, specifically from the parc du Centenaire. A visit to the Museo Maritimo provides context on the ships that shaped the archipelago's history. Attached to the museum, a former prison commemorates the harsh conditions men endured here over the centuries.
Natural wonders
The Tren del fin del mundo (Train at the end of the world) is one of Ushuaia's most popular attractions. Its history is grim, as the tracks were built by prisoners tasked with transporting timber. The train stopped serving that purpose in 1952, but it now carries passengers through the landscape on a scenic ride.
Another essential part of any visit to Ushuaia is a cruise on the Beagle Channel to see the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, Bird Island, and Sea Lion Island. You can also head toward Martillo Island to see the large penguin colonies.
The centerpiece of the region is the parc national Tierra del Fuego. It stretches over 63,000 hectares at the southern tip of the Andes mountain range. This area is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. You can visit via organized tours or on your own by renting a van. The Senda Costera is an 8-kilometer trail that connects some of the most scenic overlooks in the archipelago.
When to go
You can visit Ushuaia year-round, though the period from October to March is the best time for hiking and wildlife spotting.
How to get there
To reach Ushuaia from Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, you have two primary options. You can drive via National Route 3. This journey requires at least three days, but you will see the vast landscapes of Patagonia along the way. Alternatively, you can take a flight from Buenos Aires, which takes between 3 and 5 hours depending on the airline.
Alors c'est en Chili qu'on trouve la ville la plus australe ? Remarque, ça ne m'étonne pas qu'on se soit attribué ce mérite un peu prématurément en Argentine :)