Ushuaia, Gateway to Antarctica

Now I’m probably being a little bit unfair. When I did my Antarctic cruise, I ended up spending five nights in Ushuaia prior to the cruise. This was because I had arranged to view two other vessels in the same period that were departing on Antarctic cruises. It’s not normal for somebody to spend such a long time in Ushuaia, and to be frank with you, there isn’t a great deal to do beyond a day. 

Quite frankly, it’s a bit cold and drab, even in the summer. 

But not all cruise companies do that, and if you are making your own way to Ushuaia, we’ll be organizing that for you. And we are rather insistent that you have at least one night prior to your cruise departure in Ushuaia; otherwise, you are at the mercy of Aerolineas Argentina’s notorious schedule changes. 

This is the main natural highlight, right on Ushuaia’s doorstep. Think rugged mountains, forests, lakes, and coastal scenery where the Andes meet the sea. It’s ideal for half-day or full-day touring, with plenty of short walks and scenic viewpoints. It actually looks remarkably like Tasmania, which, if you think about it, is not surprising, as the two were ultimately once joined together.

A historic narrow-gauge railway that once transported prisoners, now offering a scenic journey into Tierra del Fuego National Park. It’s a relaxed, touristy-style experience that adds a bit of history to the landscape.

I would say this was my personal highlight of my time in Ushuaia. Located just behind the city, you’ll find a chairlift up the mountains for panoramic views over Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel. From there, you can walk further up toward the glacier. Great for a short, active outing on the morning before your cruise departs that afternoon. If it’s not too foggy you’ll get some great selfies with the coast in the background.

Definitely one of the most interesting cultural stops in town. The former prison housed some of Argentina’s most notorious criminals and played a key role in the city’s history. Today, it’s a museum that combines maritime history, Antarctic exploration, and the story of Ushuaia’s early settlement. Easy to get from the city centre.

Situated near the port entrance is a small exhibition about the “Mavinas War” of 1982. Or the Falklands war as it might be known. As someone growing up in the UK in the 1980s, it’s quite unnerving to see a full exhibition about a war where your country is  100% the bad guys! Fascinating way to spend 30-40 minutes but it is not exactly balanced!

As we said previously, many of our clients will spend at least one night in Ushuaia prior to their cruise. Argentine airline schedules are scary, and It’s much more relaxing to wake up in your hotel room in Ushuaia on your day of embarkation rather than in Buenos Aires, worried about your connection flights. 

If you’d like two nights to play extra safe that’s OK. As you can see, there is enough to do for a full day in Ushuaia. 

Expedition Partners with a range of expedition vessels that visit the Antarctic Peninsula from Ushuaia. Each ship has its own characteristics and appeals to a different style of traveller. Speak to us now so that we can help you find the one that’s most suited to your style of travel.