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Ready to experience life at the “End of the World”? You found the perfect guide!
Ushuaia sits at the edge of the world, a place where dramatic landscapes and unique wildlife experiences compete for your time. With so much to see and do, it can feel impossible to fit everything in—but that’s where we come in!
After exploring this city on multiple occasions, we’ve learned all the tips and tricks and crafted this guide to help you see the very best of Ushuaia without the stress of planning. Over the next three days, you’ll discover a mix of outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters, and memorable meals that capture the spirit of this one-of-a-kind destination. Let’s get started charting your path through the “End of the World.”
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Ushuaia was this Beagle Channel cruise! This was the best way to experience Ushuaia’s incredible scenery, history, and wildlife, and we learned so much from our on-board commentary.
Itinerary Overview
Perched at the “End of the World,” Ushuaia is a place where wild landscapes meet cozy evenings over hearty Patagonian meals. In just three days, you can hike through Tierra del Fuego National Park, cruise the Beagle Channel past sea lions and lighthouses, and even walk among penguins on Martillo Island. The local king crab is a highlight too, best enjoyed fresh in rustic taverns or along the Crab Route itself.
Most tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off, making logistics seamless, while Ushuaia’s compact center is easy to explore on foot. For everything else, taxis are the way to go. This itinerary blends rugged adventures with relaxed evenings, giving you a perfect taste of Ushuaia by land, sea, and table.
Follow this 3-day guide to see the highlights of Ushuaia at an easy pace:
Day 1: Kick off your trip with a guided half-day tour of Tierra del Fuego National Park before lunch at Ramos Generales El Almacén. Spend the afternoon cruising the Beagle Channel past sea lions and the “Lighthouse at the End of the World,” then enjoy fresh king crab at Taberna Del Viejo Lobo and a stroll along Ushuaia’s waterfront.
Day 2: Start early with a penguin walk on Martillo Island, then refuel with craft brews and hearty fare at Cerveza Patagonia – Refugio Ushuaia. Spend the afternoon exploring downtown museums and shops at your own pace, finishing with a seafood dinner at Salitre Restaurante and a sunset walk through Parque América.
Day 3: End your trip with a full-day Crab Route tour, from breakfast at Laguna Victoria to a freshly caught king crab feast in Puerto Almanza and a short trek to Cascada del Duende. Back in town, enjoy a relaxed dinner at Del Fuego Resto before raising a final toast to Ushuaia at Dublin.
Day 1
Morning – Explore the heart of Tierra del Fuego National Park
Your first morning in Ushuaia is the perfect time to dive into Tierra del Fuego National Park. Known as the “land of fire,” it feels otherworldly with rugged coastlines, clear lakes, and jagged mountains stretching in every direction. It’s a dream destination for hikers, but honestly, we found that this guided bus tour was the easiest way to see all the highlights without worrying about logistics.
It runs from 8 am to 1 pm, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it completely hassle-free. Our guide was fantastic—sharing fascinating history one moment and funny local stories the next. Every stop gave us a new perspective, and with plenty of time to take photos, it never felt rushed.
What really surprised us was how much more we got out of the park with a guide. From spotting unique bird species to learning about the Yamana people who once lived here, every stop felt meaningful.
And what we loved most was the relaxed pace—you’re never hurried along. At one stop, we stood by a still lake, the only sounds being the wind and a few birds in the distance. It was one of those small, quiet moments that make traveling all the way to the “end of the world” worth it.
If you want a seamless introduction to Ushuaia’s wild beauty, this is the way to do it. It’s no wonder this tour is packed with five-star reviews—travelers rave about the scenery, the guides, and just how easy it makes exploring the park!
Reserve this half-day Tierra del Fuego tour here!
Lunch – Ramos Generales El Almacén
After you return from your morning of exploring Tierra del Fuego National Park around 1 pm, you’ll be ready for a hearty lunch, and there’s no better place than Ramos Generales El Almacén. This historic café is packed with antiques, vintage photos, and quirky collectibles, making it feel more like a museum than a restaurant. It’s been a local favorite for decades, and once you sit down, you’ll quickly see why.
The menu is all about comfort food with Patagonian character. Their famous lamb stew is rich and filling, the kind of dish that warms you right through, while the crab empanadas are flaky, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. Pair your meal with a glass of Argentina’s best or just a strong coffee, and soak up the cozy atmosphere.
Plan to spend about an hour and a half here—enough time to enjoy the food without feeling rushed. Best of all, it’s only a five-minute walk from the start of your next tour, so you can linger over dessert before heading out again.
Afternoon – Cruise the legendary Beagle Channel
After lunch, you’ll set out on this half-day yacht cruise through the Beagle Channel, one of the most unforgettable experiences in Ushuaia. The channel lies at the southern tip of South America, where Argentina meets Chile, and it’s famous for its dramatic scenery and abundant wildlife. Cruising here gives you the chance to see it all up close—snowcapped peaks, rocky islands, and plenty of marine life.
We recommend booking the 3 pm to 7 pm option, which is ideal for an afternoon adventure while still leaving your evening free. Just remember to arrive about 30 minutes early for a presentation before the tour gets moving. Conveniently, the marina is only a five-minute walk from your lunch spot, so getting there is a breeze.
Once on board, the yacht takes you out to Isla Alicia and Isla Pajaros, both home to colonies of sea lions and seabirds, before cruising past the iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, often called the “Lighthouse at the End of the World.”
With a maximum of 25 passengers, the tour never feels crowded, and there’s plenty of space to move around for photos. The guide adds depth to the trip with commentary on the region’s history, flora, and fauna, so you’ll come away with more than just great pictures.
Between sipping hot coffee, spotting seals, and keeping an eye out for whales, this cruise feels like the perfect balance of relaxation and discovery.
Check out the HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews and book this unforgettable cruise here!
Dinner – Taberna Del Viejo Lobo
After your cruise, it’s just a six-minute walk to dinner at Taberna Del Viejo Lobo, a rustic tavern that feels like the perfect place to end your first day in Ushuaia. Overlooking the Beagle Channel, the restaurant is filled with nautical décor like wooden beams, ship wheels, and maps that give it a cozy, seafaring charm. The warm atmosphere and friendly service make it a local favorite, especially after a day spent outdoors.
Seafood is the star here, and the menu highlights the best of Patagonia’s catch. The king crab is a must-try—served fresh and generously portioned—while the hake is another standout, especially when paired with a glass of Argentine white. Portions are hearty, so come hungry, and don’t be surprised if you linger longer than planned. Just keep in mind that Taberna Del Viejo Lobo is closed on Mondays, so be sure to plan accordingly!
Evening – Wind down with a stroll by the “End of the World” waterfront
After dinner, take a walk along Ushuaia’s waterfront promenade for the perfect way to close out your first day. The path runs right beside the Beagle Channel, so you’ll have mountain silhouettes in the distance and the city lights twinkling on the water as you stroll.
It’s an easy, walkable stretch from most central restaurants, including Taberna Del Viejo Lobo, and the atmosphere in the evening feels peaceful yet lively. Locals and travelers alike gather here to enjoy the cool air and the views, making it a great place to pause and reflect on your day of exploration. Whether you walk a short section or linger a little longer, it’s a relaxing reminder that you really are at the “End of the World.”
Day 2
Morning/Early afternoon – Walk with penguins on Martillo Island
One of the absolute highlights of visiting Ushuaia in the warmer months is the chance to see penguins up close, and not just from a distance. On this full-day guided cruise to Martillo Island, you’ll actually get to walk among the penguin colonies, making it one of the most unique wildlife experiences in all of Patagonia.
The tour begins near the port at 7 am and lasts about 7 hours, usually wrapping up around 2 pm (or time will be confirmed with the provider at the time of booking), leaving you plenty of room for more exploring later.
Once on the island, you’ll spend about an hour with hundreds (sometimes thousands) of Magellanic and Gentoo penguins. Watching them waddle, call to each other, and go about their day feels like stepping right into a nature documentary. Because the experience is carefully regulated, you’ll always be with a specialized guide who shares insights about penguin behavior and the importance of protecting their fragile habitat.
The second half of the tour takes you out on the Beagle Channel, where you’ll sail past Bird Island and the Isle of Wolves to watch seabirds and sea lions in their natural habitat. From there, the boat glides by the famous Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse for another look at a familiar favorite.
It’s a perfect balance of wildlife encounters and stunning scenery, all in one unforgettable day. Spots are limited, so booking early is essential—check the glowing five-star reviews here to see why this is a must-do in Ushuaia.
Reserve this penguin tour here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Late lunch – Cerveza Patagonia – Refugio Ushuaia
After your morning penguin adventure, you’ll be ready for a well-earned lunch. Just a three-minute walk away, you’ll find Cerveza Patagonia – Refugio Ushuaia, a scenic brewpub with sweeping views over the Beagle Channel. With its relaxed, modern vibe and big windows looking out onto the water, it’s the kind of place where you’ll want to sit back and linger for a while.
The food menu is hearty and perfect for refueling after a long morning. Think lamb burgers stacked high, golden empanadas, and sharing boards loaded with local flavors. Everything pairs perfectly with the main reason people come here—the craft brews. Patagonia Brewing is one of Argentina’s best-known breweries, and this spot serves their freshest pours. Grab a tasting flight if you can’t decide, and sample a mix of styles while soaking in the view.
Afternoon – Free time to explore Ushuaia
After returning from the penguin tour and a late lunch, the rest of the day is yours to take at a slower pace. You can head back to your hotel to rest or enjoy a relaxed walk through downtown Ushuaia.
A few easy stops to consider include:
- Museo del Fin del Mundo – This small but fascinating museum gives a snapshot of regional history, indigenous cultures, and tales of shipwrecks that happened off these southern shores. It’s a quick visit—about 30 to 45 minutes—so it’s easy to squeeze in before dinner. Just note that the museum is closed on Sundays.
- Museo Marítimo y del Presidio de Ushuaia – Housed in the old jail, this is the Maritime Museum, Antarctic Museum, Art Museum, and Prison Museum all in one. You can take a guided tour (lasting about 45 minutes) or explore on your own using the audio guide on their website. It’s the most popular and immersive museum in Ushuaia for a reason!
- Avenida San Martín – Ushuaia’s main commercial street is lined with souvenir shops, cafés, and outdoor outfitters. It’s a great spot to pick up locally made crafts, warm gear for the chilly evenings, or edible gifts like Patagonian chocolate and wine.
- Plaza Cívica 12 de Octubre – This historic square marks the place where the Argentine flag was first raised in Ushuaia back in 1884. Today, it’s a peaceful open space with nice views over the waterfront, perfect for snapping a few photos of the Beagle Channel.
Dinner – Salitre Restaurante
For dinner, treat yourself to Salitre Restaurante, one of the most stylish spots in Ushuaia. With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Beagle Channel, the views here are just as memorable as the food. As the sun sets and the city lights start to shimmer on the water, it feels like the perfect backdrop for a relaxed but elegant evening.
The menu celebrates Patagonian flavors with a modern twist. Favorites include the rich king crab risotto, tender grilled lamb, and freshly caught local seafood, all beautifully paired with a glass of Argentine white. Just be sure to make a reservation ahead of time since this is one of Ushuaia’s most popular dinner spots.
Salitre opens at 7 pm and stays open late, giving you plenty of flexibility after a long day of exploring. Just keep in mind they’re closed on Mondays, so make sure to plan your days accordingly.
Evening – Enjoy a sunset stroll through Parque América
After dinner, ease into the evening with a relaxed walk through Parque América, a centrally located green space that’s perfect for a short stroll. The park is home to the Monumento Centenario, built to commemorate 100 years since Ushuaia’s founding, and it’s a nice spot to pause and reflect on the city’s history.
In the summer months, when the evenings stay light, the park feels especially inviting and safe to explore. From here, you’ll also have some lovely views across the waterfront, with the Beagle Channel stretching out in front of you. It’s a quiet, peaceful way to end the day before heading back to your hotel.
Related Read: If you find yourself with some extra time, check out our best things to do in Ushuaia blog for more epic activities to add to your itinerary!
Day 3
Morning/Afternoon – Follow Ushuaia’s famous Crab Route
Kick off your last day in Ushuaia with one of the region’s most unique adventures—the Crab Route! This full-day experience blends history, culture, and food, giving you the chance to learn about local traditions and, of course, taste Ushuaia’s famous king crab. The tour runs from 9 am until around 4 pm, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so everything is taken care of from the moment you leave your room.
It all begins with a scenic drive to Laguna Victoria, an ancestral site where you’ll enjoy breakfast while your guide shares stories about the land and its people. From there, you’ll head to Puerto Almanza, a small fishing village on the Beagle Channel, where you’ll dive into the area’s crab fishing traditions before sitting down to an unforgettable seafood lunch.
The king crab couldn’t be fresher—it’s pulled straight from local waters! And the setting, with views across the channel, makes the meal feel even more special.
After lunch, it’s time for a gentle trek to Cascada del Duende, a waterfall tucked away in the forest. The walk is short and easy, making it accessible for travelers of all ages, and the view is a rewarding way to round out the day.
From the history to the food to the scenery, this tour really delivers. But don’t just take our word for it—check out the glowing five-star reviews here that prove why it’s a favorite among visitors.
Check availability for your dates and book this crab adventure here!
Dinner – Del Fuego Resto
After a little downtime at your hotel, make your way to Del Fuego Resto when you’re ready, a cozy yet modern spot right in the heart of Ushuaia. The welcoming atmosphere makes it feel instantly inviting, whether you’re wrapping up a busy day of exploring or settling in for a relaxed final night in town.
The menu here leans into Argentine classics and Patagonian specialties, with something to satisfy every craving. Think perfectly grilled meats, fresh local seafood, and handmade pastas that are as comforting as they are delicious. Portions are generous, the drink list is well curated, and the service is attentive without ever feeling rushed.
It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, enjoy a hearty meal, and savor your last full evening in Ushuaia with flavors that truly reflect the region.
Evening – Toast your trip at the Dublin pub
Cap off your Ushuaia adventure with a celebratory drink at Dublin (closed Sundays), the city’s most popular Irish-style bar. It’s a lively yet welcoming spot where the energy is always high, making it a fun place to soak in the atmosphere on your final night.
With plenty of craft brews on tap and a solid selection of Argentine wines, it’s easy to find something you’ll enjoy. The crowd is a mix of locals and fellow travelers, so don’t be surprised if you strike up a conversation with someone else who’s just wrapped up their own “End of the World” adventure. It’s the perfect place to raise a glass, share a few laughs, and celebrate everything you’ve experienced in this unforgettable corner of Patagonia!
Where to Stay in Ushuaia
If you’ve made it this far south, make sure you stay here for a few days! We stayed here a week and found that it was a perfect amount of time to really enjoy our time here. The best area to stay is in Downtown Centro, which is super convenient for the best restaurants, shops, and tours. If these hotels are still available when you’re ready to book, they will be your best options for a luxury, mid-range, or budget stay!
Luxury – $$$
Hotel Albatros is one of the more upscale options right in the center of Ushuaia. It’s not super fancy, but it’s smart and comfortable with a warm, classic style that will make you feel right at home. Best of all, there’s a fantastic full-service spa that’s perfect for unwinding after a day of outdoor adventures! We’re also big fans of the on-site restaurant, which serves Patagonian specialties alongside international dishes.
Rooms and suites here cost between $125 and $600 USD per night. You can check availability and book this luxury stay on booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Hotel Canal Beagle is a comfortable and convenient choice. It boasts an unbeatable location right across from the port, so it’s especially handy if you’re planning boat tours or a day trip to the nearby islands. It was recently renovated and boasts an inviting, modern design.
There’s also a heated indoor pool, small gym, and spa area, so you’ll have some extras to enjoy when you’re not out exploring. For the price and location, it’s hard to beat Canal Beagle!
Rooms here cost between $145 and $425 USD per night, including breakfast and a flexible reschedule policy if your dates change. Book this stay here on Booking.com.
Los Calafates Hotel – $
Los Calafates Hotel is a budget-friendly choice that still puts you within walking distance of all the action in Downtown Centro. This family-run property has a cozy, home-like vibe, with wooden interiors that feel very Patagonian. It’s a great option if you’d rather spend your money on excursions and dining out than on an expensive hotel room.
Rooms are modest but well-kept, and a continental breakfast is included, which is always a nice way to start the day before heading out on an adventure.
Expect to pay between $75 and $200 USD per night for a room here. Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com!
Related Read: If you’re looking for more options, see our full Where to Stay in Ushuaia guide for the top areas to stay in and our favorite hotels!
Planning your Trip to Argentina
Accommodation in Argentina
Booking accommodation is one of the biggest aspects of your trip, and we should know as we stay in a new hotel up to 40 times per year! Funny enough, we make 99% of these bookings on one website and that’s Booking.com – and there are a few reasons why we use this site!
Number one is the website is easy to use and sorts accommodation options. That takes the stress out of planning which honestly still affects us and we do it more than not.
Second, is the price guarantee. We have literally booked a hotel months before and then 1 week out found it cheaper (we always do a quick search), and they’ll match that price from anyone’s website including the hotels!
And third, is the Genius loyalty program. If you make a certain amount of bookings per year you get a Genius discount. We are level-two geniuses because we make more than 5 a year. At participating hotels, we get things like free breakfast included, early check-in, and up to 15% off.
You can check out all their accommodation options throughout Argentina!
Renting a car in Argentina
We enjoyed a rental car for our second trip to Argentina when we traveled in Patagonia – and wow, what a way to travel! But the best part was that we only paid $40 USD per day for a 5-person sedan!
But how? Well, if you’re renting a car in Argentina, the cheapest company is Discover Cars. We often get questions from readers asking us if the website is fake because it seems too cheap! It’s a great website and the one we used for our rental.
If you do want to compare prices (and you should), do a quick search on Airport Car Rentals too. They’re another big competitor and each company often has its own deals to offer!
Tours in Argentina
We love booking online because we can check reviews of the tour and know exactly what to expect on the tour, such as the itinerary and inclusions. Sometimes the tours are pricier online than booking directly in person, but this is why we always book with Viator. If we happen to find the exact same tour for a lower price once we’re at the destination, Viator will actually refund the price difference!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Ushuaia is a bucket-list destination, but planning a trip there can be challenging. If you stick to our itinerary, you will see the best sights of the End of the World. This is the same three-day schedule we followed, and it was the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation!
Before you go, check out our other Argentina blogs for more exciting places to explore. If you’re continuing your travels through South America, we have even more city itineraries, where to stay guides, and lists of top things to do to fill your time. Here are a few related blogs to get you started – cheers!
8 BEST Mendoza Wine Tours for First Timers
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Santiago, Chile: 3-Day Itinerary
The Complete Guide to “Mini Trekking” on Perito Moreno Glacier