Ushuaia attractions

Museo Akatushun on the grounds of Estancia Harberton serves as a base for ongoing scientific research into Tierra del Fuego’s dolphins and other wildlife. The collection includes skeletons of more than 2,700 marine mammals and 2,300 seabirds, as well as underwater tableaus with taxidermied animals.

One of the natural wonders of southern Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego, Isla Martillo is most famous for its resident Magellanic penguins, hundreds of which call this small island in the Beagle Channel home. Some boat tours let you disembark and walk among the birds on the pebble beach, from which you can admire views of snow-capped mountains.

Just a quick drive from Ushuaia, Argentina, Vinciguerra Glacier is a Patagonian pearl that hiking enthusiasts don’t want to miss on their trip to the “end of the world.” Situated in the Martial Mountains, an invigorating hike around the glacier takes you past a brambling stream, lush greenery, and, best of all, the ethereal ice caves.

Perched on the southernmost tip of Argentina, Ushuaia Cruise Port is the gateway to the wild Patagonian landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park, as well as the start and end point for cruises to Antarctica and the Falkland Islands. Use the port as a jumping-off point for animal experiences, boat rides, and more.

The Fuegian Andes, which cross the entire Tierra Del Fuego Archipelago, are the southernmost chain of the Andes Mountains. Although rather small compared to other South American peaks, these mountains still look formidable as they rise straight out of the ocean to heights just over 8,200 feet (2,500 meters.

Home to one of the only penguin rookeries in continental Argentina, Penguin Island (Isla Yecapasela) is a rocky islet in the Beagle Channel off the coast of Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica. While the waters of this Patagonian region are notoriously challenging to navigate, the bumpy ride is well worth it for the wildlife-watching opportunities—it’s home to thousands of Magellanic penguins, alongside Gentoo penguins and rock cormorants.