The landscape of Ushuaia and the entire Tierra del Fuego region was shaped by an ancient and fascinating geological history.
Over millions of years, glaciers and tectonic forces carved deep valleys and formed the lakes and mountains that now define one of the most breathtaking sceneries on Earth.
These glaciers left behind lakes like Fagnano and Escondido, and sculpted the dramatic peaks surrounding the city, including Mount Olivia and the Cinco Hermanos.
The result is a unique meeting point between the sea and the Andes.
Here, forests shift colors with the seasons, and the pure southern air invites travelers to disconnect and breathe in the wild.
But Ushuaia is much more than just the last stop before Antarctica.
It’s world-renowned for its untouched beauty and dramatic landscapes, drawing adventurers from all over the globe.
Whether you’re hiking in silent forests or sailing through the legendary Beagle Channel, Ushuaia offers unforgettable experiences.
👉🏻 Below are four must-do summer excursions that capture the true spirit of this extraordinary place.
1. Tierra del Fuego National Park + The End of the World Train
Just minutes from downtown Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego National Park is Argentina’s only national park that blends mountain, forest, and sea in one location.
Historically, Ushuaia developed around its former prison.
The End of the World Train, originally used by prisoners to transport wood, now offers visitors a scenic journey into the park — a powerful symbol of the city’s past.
The standard excursion takes about four hours. It usually runs in the morning, but in summer you’ll find departures in the afternoon too.
Once inside the park, you can explore iconic sites like Ensenada Bay, Roca Lake, and Lapataia Bay, the official end of the legendary Pan-American Highway.
The park is also home to unique native wildlife. Keep an eye out for Kelp geese and Black-faced ibises, especially near the shorelines and open clearings.
2. Navigation through the Beagle Channel
A cruise on the Beagle Channel is one of Ushuaia’s classic adventures.
Boats depart from the port and sail along the waters that separate Argentina and Chile.
It offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
The route includes stops at Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse, Sea Lion Island, and Bird Island.
All of them, home to a variety of sea lions and seabirds.
During the summer season, longer excursions (around 6 hours) also visit Martillo Island, where you can spot Magellanic and Gentoo penguins.
This channel has a rich past. It was formed during ancient glaciation periods and is steeped in stories of shipwrecks and early explorers.
Among them was Charles Darwin, who passed through on the HMS Beagle, collecting observations that helped shape his theory of evolution.
3. Off-Road Adventure to the Lakes
If you’re craving adrenaline with your scenery, the Off-Road Lakes Excursion is for you.
In a 4×4 vehicle, you’ll cross the Andes, navigating rugged trails, muddy paths, and deep forest corridors.
The route takes you to Lake Escondido, nestled in a mountainous valley, and the vast Lake Fagnano, one of the largest lakes in South America.
Along the way, guides share stories about the first road connections in Ushuaia.
A tale of resilience and vision in one of the world’s most remote regions.
You’ll also have the chance to see the diverse Patagonian flora and perhaps even spot some local wildlife.
4. Trekking to Laguna Esmeralda
For nature lovers, the Laguna Esmeralda hike is a must.
This 10-kilometer round-trip trek is of moderate difficulty and takes you through valleys, peat bogs, and native Fuegian forests.
At the end of the trail, the emerald-green waters of Laguna Esmeralda offer a magical reward, perfectly reflecting the mountains that surround it.
This glacial valley tells a story of natural evolution, with every rock and curve revealing a piece of the region’s history.
Most guided treks include a box lunch and are available in different formats, so you can choose the one that fits your pace and style.
Each of these excursions reveals a different side of Ushuaia.
Together, they offer a complete picture of life at the edge of the world.
Whether you’re planning a quick visit or a multi-day adventure, these experiences show why Tierra del Fuego continues to inspire travelers year after year.
