Tierra del Fuego & Subantarctic South
Journey to the End of the World 🐧🚂
Tierra del Fuego offers the unique thrill of traveling to the "End of the World." Located at the southernmost tip of the continent, the city of Ushuaia is surrounded by snowy martial peaks and the icy waters of the Beagle Channel. The weather is subpolar oceanic, meaning it can be cold, windy, and rainy any day of the year. Families should come prepared with waterproof gear and warm layers. Despite the rugged location, Ushuaia is well-equipped for tourists, with comfortable hotels and plenty of hot chocolate stops.
A favorite activity for younger children is the Tren del Fin del Mundo (End of the World Train). This steam railway, originally built to transport timber to the old prison, now takes tourists on a cozy ride into Tierra del Fuego National Park. Once in the park, there are short, flat trails along the coast and lakes that are perfect for family hikes, letting you explore the peat bogs and beaver dams without exhaustion.
The marine wildlife is spectacular. Catamaran tours leave daily from the port, cruising past the iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse (often confused with the Lighthouse at the End of the World). These boats get very close to rocky islands covered in basking sea lions and imperial cormorants. In the summer months (October to March), specialized tours can take you to Martillo Island to walk among Magellanic and Gentoo penguins—an absolute highlight for animal lovers.
For a history lesson, the Maritime and Prison Museum is housed in the old jail cells and features life-size wax figures; it is fascinating for older kids but can be a bit spooky for very young ones. Winter visits offer the chance for dog sledding and skiing at Cerro Castor, the southernmost ski resort in the world. Whether it is mailing a postcard from the southernmost post office or watching penguins waddle on the beach, Tierra del Fuego feels like a true expedition made easy.
Click a region to explore
Activities & Best Times
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
A bucket-list destination for its unique 'End of the World' ecosystems, offering world-class wildlife viewing including penguin colonies and marine mammals. Peak months align with the austral summer, providing the necessary daylight and milder temperatures (8-13°C) for trekking through subantarctic forests and navigating the Beagle Channel.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
Exceptional opportunities for families to learn about maritime history, Darwin’s voyages, and Antarctic research at the End of the World Museum and scientific outposts. The summer peak ensures full access to historical sites and research-based boat tours that are often restricted by harsh weather during the cold, dark winter months.
Winter sports, ski resorts, snow activities
Home to Cerro Castor, which offers the world's southernmost ski experience with high-quality powder and a remarkably long season due to its latitude. Peak winter months provide reliable snow cover and temperatures hovering near freezing, while shoulder months offer variable conditions as the season begins or tapers off.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
Offers world-class trekking in Tierra del Fuego National Park and high-end sailing expeditions that appeal to active, experienced families. The peak season (Dec-Feb) provides the most stable conditions and warmest temperatures for physically demanding outdoor activities, whereas the harsh subantarctic winter makes most active recreation unsuitable.
Urban tourism, museums, historical sites, architecture
Ushuaia offers a unique frontier atmosphere and authentic maritime culture that feels genuine rather than commercialized. The city is most vibrant and accessible during the summer cruise season when all cultural venues and high-end gastronomy are in full operation.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
High-end lodges provide sophisticated spa facilities with panoramic views of the Beagle Channel, perfect for a secluded and peaceful retreat. While the facilities are year-round, the peak season allows for a mix of indoor wellness and crisp outdoor walks, which is more appealing to the target demographic than the extreme isolation of mid-winter.
Scenic drives, countryside tours, route-based travel
The journey to the southern terminus of the Pan-American Highway (Route 3) offers dramatic, cinematic landscapes that are highly rewarding for scenic drivers. Peak summer offers the best visibility and safest road conditions, while winter months are categorized as off-season due to heavy snow and ice hazards on mountain passes.
Events, celebrations, seasonal attractions
The National Festival of the Longest Night in June is a culturally authentic event celebrating the winter solstice, though it is smaller in scale than major global festivals. It is a niche peak for those seeking a highly specific, local cultural tradition during the coldest month of the year.
Attractions (49 total)
Beach / Coastal Recreation Area
Bahía Lapataia
Ushuaia
This scenic coastal inlet marks the end of the Pan-American Highway and offers easy wooden walkways suitable for all ages.
Visit website →Ensenada Zaratiegui
Ushuaia
A stunning coastal bay within Tierra del Fuego National Park featuring the world's southernmost post office and calm waters perfect for family photos.
Visit website →Cabo San Pablo
Tolhuin
A rugged coastal area known for the iconic Desdemona shipwreck and a hilltop lighthouse providing panoramic views of the South Atlantic.
Lago Fagnano Shoreline
Tolhuin
This expansive freshwater beach offers dramatic views of the surrounding mountains and forests at the edge of one of Argentina's largest lakes.
Reserva Natural Playa Larga
Ushuaia
A scenic coastal reserve near Ushuaia featuring accessible trails and pebble beaches with views of passing ships in the Beagle Channel.
National Park / Nature Reserve
Beagle Channel
Ushuaia
A historic and scenic waterway that serves as a sanctuary for sea lions, cormorants, and iconic lighthouses, best explored via family-friendly boat tours.
Laguna Esmeralda
Ushuaia
A striking turquoise glacial lagoon reached by a well-traveled trail through peat bogs and forests, popular for its vibrant color and mountain backdrop.
Isla Martillo
Ushuaia
A protected nature reserve in the Beagle Channel where families can observe a large colony of Magellanic and Gentoo penguins in their natural habitat.
Lake Fagnano
Tolhuin
This enormous and pristine glacial lake, also known as Lago Cami, offers stunning vistas and a sense of vast wilderness for nature-loving families.
Martial Glacier
Ushuaia
Located just above the city, this glacier provides families with an accessible mountain experience and the best panoramic views of Ushuaia and the bay.
Ski Resort / Winter Sports Center
Cerro Castor
Ushuaia
195-1,057m, 34 runs, 34km pistes, June-October season, features 12 lifts, a snow park, and the longest ski season in South America.
Visit website →Centro Invernal Las Cotorras
Ushuaia
250-320m, 5km groomed Nordic trails, June-September season, features traditional Fuegian architecture, cross-country runs, and equipment services.
Centro Invernal Tierra Mayor
Ushuaia
250-350m, 15km groomed Nordic trails, June-September season, premier cross-country skiing facility in the Tierra Mayor Valley with professional equipment rental.
Visit website →Centro de Montaña Glaciar Martial
Ushuaia
250-500m, 3 runs, 2km pistes, June-September season, panoramic views of Beagle Channel, includes a double chairlift and a surface lift for beginners.
Visit website →Landmark / Monument / Iconic Urban Attraction
End of the World Train
Ushuaia
A historic steam locomotive that travels along the southernmost railway in the world through the scenic Tierra del Fuego National Park.
Visit website →Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse
Ushuaia
The famous red-and-white lighthouse standing on a rocky islet in the Beagle Channel, often called the Lighthouse at the End of the World.
Maritime and Prison Museum of Ushuaia
Ushuaia
Housed in a former military prison, this museum complex details the region's penal history, maritime exploration, and Antarctic expeditions.
Visit website →Saint Christopher Shipwreck
Ushuaia
A historic 1940s rescue tugboat permanently grounded on the shoreline of Ushuaia, serving as an iconic maritime landmark.
End of the World Sign
Ushuaia
The iconic wooden welcome sign on the Ushuaia waterfront that serves as a landmark for travelers reaching the southernmost city.
Farm Park / Petting Zoo / Rural Experience
Estancia Harberton
Ushuaia
The region's oldest historic ranch offers guided tours of its homestead, gardens, and the fascinating Acatushún Museum of marine mammals.
Visit website →Estancia Las Hijas
Ushuaia
A traditional working sheep farm where families can witness sheep shearing demonstrations and enjoy a classic Patagonian lamb barbecue.
Hiking & Cycling Routes
Laguna Esmeralda Trail
Ushuaia
9.4km moderate day hike, typically taking 4-5 hours with 250m elevation gain. This iconic route crosses peat bogs and subantarctic forests to reach a vibrant emerald glacial lagoon. Equipment rental available at Ushuaia Extremo (ushuaiaextremo.com).
Visit website →Senda Costera (Coastal Path)
Ushuaia
8km moderate one-way hike within Tierra del Fuego National Park, taking 3-4 hours with 180m elevation gain. Follows the Beagle Channel shoreline through Coihue forests. Bike rentals for park access: Jumping Ushuaia (jumpingushuaia.com.ar).
Visit website →Paso de la Oveja Trek
Ushuaia
33km challenging multi-day trek, usually completed in 2-3 days with 1,200m elevation gain. Traverses the Fuegian Andes through the Andorra and Oveja valleys. Best for expert hikers seeking solitude and rugged landscapes.
Visit website →Route 3 - End of the World Cycling Route
Ushuaia
30km moderate cycling route (one way) from Ushuaia center to Lapataia Bay inside the National Park. Includes gravel and paved sections with rolling hills. Bike rentals: Ushuaia Extremo (ushuaiaextremo.com).
Visit website →Cerro Guanaco Trail
Ushuaia
14km challenging out-and-back trek with 970m elevation gain, taking approximately 6-8 hours. Offers the most famous panoramic views of the Beagle Channel and the Darwin Range. Located inside Tierra del Fuego National Park.
Visit website →Glaciar Martial Hike
Ushuaia
4.5km moderate hike with 350m elevation gain, taking about 2-3 hours. Starts from the base of the former ski center and leads to the foot of the Martial Glacier with views of Ushuaia city. Equipment rental: Ushuaia Extremo (ushuaiaextremo.com).
Visit website →Glaciar Vinciguerra and Laguna de los Témpanos
Ushuaia
10km challenging hike with 600m elevation gain, taking 6-7 hours. Features ice caves, glacial lagoons, and peat bogs. Requires sturdy footwear. Guide and equipment rentals: Jumping Ushuaia (jumpingushuaia.com.ar).
Visit website →Art Gallery / Fine Art Museum
Marine Art Museum (MAMU)
Ushuaia
Located inside a historic prison, this gallery offers families a unique blend of maritime history and impressive fine art in an iconic setting.
Visit website →Fuegian Museum of Art
Río Grande
This vibrant provincial museum offers a peaceful space for families to explore contemporary Patagonian art and local creative expressions.
Visit website →Castle / Palace / Historic Site
Museo Marítimo y del Presidio de Ushuaia
Ushuaia
A world-famous former high-security prison housed in a historic stone complex, now featuring maritime history and prisoner life exhibits.
Visit website →Casa Beban
Ushuaia
An iconic early 20th-century Swedish-style villa that serves as a cultural center and showcases the architectural heritage of the city's pioneers.
Antigua Casa de Gobierno
Ushuaia
The beautifully preserved former seat of government, this historic landmark offers families a glimpse into early Patagonian political life.
Visit website →Road Trips & Scenic Drives
Ruta Nacional 3: Paso Garibaldi Scenic Drive
Tolhuin
Approx. 100km paved highway (1.5-2 hours) crossing the southern Andes. This world-renowned section of the Pan-American Highway features the Paso Garibaldi, the highest point on the route, offering panoramic views of Lago Escondido and Lago Fagnano, winding through subantarctic forests and the Tierra Mayor glacial valley.
Visit website →Tierra del Fuego National Park Scenic Route
Ushuaia
12km route of mixed paved and well-maintained gravel (2-3 hours with stops) inside the national park. It marks the 'End of the World' at the southern terminus of Ruta 3. Highlights include Ensenada Zaratiegui (Southernmost Post Office), Lago Acigami, and the dramatic coastal scenery of Lapataia Bay.
Visit website →Ruta Complementaria A: Cape San Pablo Road
Rio Grande
Approx. 80km (one way) of gravel road (2 hours) leading to the Atlantic coast. The route traverses the transition from Patagonian steppe to forest, ending at the isolated Cape San Pablo. Highlights include the haunting wreck of the Desdemona ship on the beach and the remote San Pablo lighthouse.
Visit website →Ruta Complementaria J: Beagle Channel Coastal Road
Ushuaia
90km round-trip well-maintained gravel road (3-4 hours) branching off RN3. This coastal route follows the shoreline of the Beagle Channel, passing through forests of wind-sculpted 'flag trees.' Key stops include the traditional fishing village of Puerto Almanza and the historic Estancia Harberton.
Visit website →Adventure Park / Outdoor Activity Center
Tierra del Fuego National Park
Ushuaia
Argentina's only coastal national park offers families scenic hiking trails, canoe trips, and the End of the World Train through subantarctic forests.
Visit website →Canopy Ushuaia
Ushuaia
An exhilarating adventure park providing zip-line circuits through the ancient Lenga forest canopy with views of the Martial mountain range.
Llanos del Castor
Ushuaia
An outdoor adventure center offering family-friendly winter and summer activities including dog sledding, snowshoeing, and canoeing in a scenic mountain valley.
Visit website →Glaciar Martial
Ushuaia
A popular outdoor activity hub featuring accessible mountain trails and spectacular panoramic views of the city and the Beagle Channel.
Historic Town / Village / Cultural Area
Train of the End of the World
Ushuaia
Families can ride a vintage steam train along the same narrow-gauge path used by the historic prison colony, offering scenic views of the Pipo River and the subantarctic forest.
Visit website →Puerto Almanza
Ushuaia
A quaint and authentic fishing village on the shores of the Beagle Channel, famous for its small-scale crab fishing culture and traditional wooden houses.
Museo del Fin del Mundo
Ushuaia
This museum offers an engaging cultural experience through displays of indigenous Yaghan artifacts, early pioneer history, and regional natural history within a historic former bank building.
Visit website →Science Museum / Natural History Museum / Discovery Centre
Centro de Visitantes Alakush
Tierra del Fuego National Park
An interpretive discovery center offering educational displays on the geology, flora, and fauna of the national park.
Museo Acatushún de Aves y Mamíferos Marinos Australes
Ushuaia
A world-renowned scientific museum and laboratory showcasing an extensive collection of marine mammal and bird skeletons.
Visit website →Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Lake Escondido
Ushuaia
Best viewed from the Paso Garibaldi lookout, this 'Hidden Lake' is a spectacular natural jewel nestled deep within the Fuegian Andes.
Zoo / Wildlife Park / Safari Park
Reserva Costa Atlántica
Río Grande
A significant coastal wildlife reserve that serves as a vital sanctuary for thousands of migratory shorebirds and marine life.
Visit website →Isla de los Lobos
Ushuaia
A rocky island in the Beagle Channel known for its massive colony of South American sea lions and fur seals visible from boat tours.
