Penguins in Ushuaia

USHUAIA, ARGENTINA

Ushuaia, often referred to as the “End of the World,” is the southernmost city in the world. Nestled between the Martial Mountains and the Beagle Channel, this picturesque port offers stunning landscapes, rich history, and a gateway to Antarctica.


KEY INFO

Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS) 

Population: 75,000 (45 million Argentina)

Emergency #: 911

Drinking Water: Tap water safe to drink

Time Zone: GMT-3

ID Requirements: Gov’t-issued photo ID

ATM and Payment: ATMs available. Card payment widely accepted.

Languages: Spanish (Limited English in tourist areas)

Drive on the: Right

Pharmacy: Andina Farmacia, Av. San Martin 638

Protection: Windproof clothing, sturdy shoes

Wi-Fi: Tourist Information office at port

Post Office: Correo Argentino, Av. San Martin 309


PORT LOCATION AND FACILITIES

Ships dock at the Ushuaia Cruise Terminal, located approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) from the city centre (10-min walk).

Facilities: Restrooms, tourist information, taxis, souvenir shops, a small café, Wi-Fi

Port Address: Muelle comercial / Ushuaia Port Terminal – 1 Comodoro Augusto Laserre Sur St.

Getting Around: The city is walkable, with taxis and buses providing transport to nearby attractions. Public buses cost approximately 80 ARS ($0.40 USD) per ride (buy ticket onboard, cash only).

Taxis: Taxis operate on set fares. Typical fare to the city centre is 1,500-2,000 ARS. Cash only.

Tourist Bus: There is no Hop-On Hop-Off tourist bus in Ushuaia. Private tours can be arranged.

For more information: Visit https://www.argentina.travel/en


USHUAIA HIGHLIGHTS

End of the World Museum: Exposition of the region’s history, native cultures, & maritime heritage.
10a-7p (Mon-Fri), 1p-7p (Sat) | 6,000 ARS | 350m (5-min walk) from port. mfm.tierradelfuego.gob.ar

Museo Marítimo y del Presidio de Ushuaia: Former prison, with exhibits on Ushuaia’s history, Antarctic expeditions, & inmates. 10a-8p | 40,000 ARS | 800m (13-min walk) from port. www.museomaritimo.com

Antigua Casa Beban: Beautifully preserved early 20th Century mansion that tells the story of the city’s pioneering families. 10a-6p (Mon-Fri), 3p-5p (Sat) | Free | 1.4km (20-min walk) from port.

Feria Artesanal Ushuaia: Local artisan market with handmade crafts, wool products, and souvenirs. 10a-7p | Free | 1 km (10-min walk) from port.

Plaza Islas Malvinas: A place of remembrance honouring the Argentine soldiers who lost their lives in the 1982 Falklands War. 24 hours | Free | 1km (14-min walk) from port.

Photo Signs: There are two particularly good photo spots. Close to Plaza Islas Malvinas is the Ushuaia sign in big bold letters, and near to the port is the Fin del Mundo sign. 24 hours | Free

BEACHES NEAR USHUAIA

Playa Larga: A quiet beach on the Beagle Channel with stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
24 hours | Free | 4 km (10-min drive) from port.

Bahía Lapataia: A picturesque bay within Tierra del Fuego National Park, perfect for a tranquil walk.
8a-6p | Entry included with park ticket | 12 km (20-min drive) from port. www.tierradelfuego.com

Buy Daniel Edward
a coffee

x

REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

Tierra del Fuego National Park: Argentina’s southernmost national park, offering hiking trails, canoeing, and breathtaking scenery. Also, the End of the World Train – a steam train ride to the end of the world.
8a-8p | 30,000 ARS | 24km (50-min drive) from port. www.trendelfindelmundo.com.ar

Beagle Channel Cruises: Scenic boat tours offering views of glaciers, islands, and marine wildlife.
Tours only | From 10,000 ARS | 0.5 km (5-min walk) from port.

Martial Glacier: A nearby glacier offering hiking trails, stunning views, and a small ski area in winter.
8a-5p | Free | 7 km (15-min drive) from port.

Laguna Esmeralda: A beautiful emerald-coloured lagoon surrounded by forests and mountains, accessible via a 2-hour hike. 24 hours | Free | 20 km (30-min drive) from port.

Lighthouse at the End of the World: A historic lighthouse located on Isla de los Estados, a symbol of maritime history. Tours only | From $150 USD | Accessible by boat.


TIPPING CUSTOMS

Optional. In restaurants, leave 10% for good service. Guides and drivers may also appreciate small tips.

FOOD & DRINK

Cordero Fueguino: A traditional lamb dish slow-cooked over an open flame, a regional specialty.

Centolla (King Crab): Freshly caught king crab, often served in stews or as a standalone dish.

Choripán: A popular Argentine street food consisting of grilled chorizo in crusty bread.

Argentine Malbec: A robust red wine from Argentina, perfect for pairing with lamb or beef.

SOUVENIR TOP TIPS

Shop for locally crafted wool garments, Antarctic expedition memorabilia, and artisanal chocolates. Items featuring penguin motifs or maps of Tierra del Fuego also make excellent gifts. There’s a spectacular gemstone shop on the main street with carved penguins and gorgeous tango dancers.


LOCAL LINGO

Hello: Hola

Goodbye: Adios

Please: Por favor

Thank you: Gracias

Toilet: Bano

Cruise Ship Port: Puerto de Cruceros