Head to the southernmost tip of Argentina and you’ll find the most beautiful resort town you’ve ever seen. Ushuaia is known as the “End of the World,” given its geography as the most southern city in the world.
Ushuaia is located in Patagonia on Beagle Channel, which is the perfect spot for skiers and wildlife enthusiasts given its prime position between Cerro Castor—a 26-trail ski resort—and Glaciar Martial, which includes Tierra del Fuego National Park. Ushuaia is also the port nearest to Antarctica, meaning there are far more wildlife spotting opportunities just a boat trip away.
The magical part about Ushuaia is that it’s nothing like you’d expect a South American city to be. Sure, you’ll find beaches, but they aren’t the warm-weather, white-sand-covered oases you’d find in Brazil or Ecuador. If your idea of fun is bundling up and hopping on a boat to Glacier Alley, consider this Argentinian city for your next adventure.
The warmest months are January and February, with temperatures reaching 50-degrees Fahrenheit, on average. The colder weather comes in June and July, when forecasts hit near-freezing temperatures.
While the dramatic snow-capped mountains surrounding the city are stunners, the real beauty of this location is within the local wildlife community. If you do opt to hop on a boat tour around the area, you may spot sea lions, tons of ocean-dwelling birds, whales, penguins, dolphins, or even beavers. Longer boat tours will even take you around Cape Horn. Pro tip: If you want to see penguins, head to the nearby Isla Martillo, an area home to colonies of penguins (mainly Gentoo and Magellanic).
If hiking is on your itinerary, head to Tierra del Fuego National Park. There you’ll find waterfalls, lakes, and glaciers. Guides are available to walk you through some of the prettiest scenery while sharing a quick lesson on the local wildlife and original settlers. If you want to take full advantage of your afternoon, bring a picnic to the shores of Lago Roca.
Aside from the natural attractions, there are plenty of other once-in-a-lifetime experiences to be had in Ushuaia. Ride the historic “Convict Train,” which is now the southernmost railroad in the world. (It was once used to bring wood to the local prison.) Hike to the blue-green waters of the glacial Laguna Esmeralda. Patagonia is also known for its craft beer scene, so make sure to follow-up all of your activities with a local brew.
