Description
Nicknamed the “End of the World”, Ushuaia is a charming windswept city on the southernmost tip of South America and an important port of call for cruise adventures to Antarctica. In the heart of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, this port is surrounded by some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, boasting sensational sightseeing opportunities for everyone who travels here. From vibrant coastal forests and dramatic waterfalls to stunning glaciers and unique polar wildlife, Ushuaia really is somewhere where you’ll be able to bask in the sheer beauty of nature, and soak up some sensational panoramic views from the vantage points found here. This city, though, while being famous for being (arguably) the most southernmost city in the entire world, is also something of a gateway to Antarctica and the smaller islands that make up the Tierra del Fuego archipelago. So, despite being rather quaint in comparison to other Argentinian cities and South American holiday hotspots, what you’re met with in Ushuaia is just a taste of what’s to come – if you’re continuing onto Antarctica, anyway. That doesn’t mean you should be too eager to leave Ushuaia, though, as this port of call does offer a lot more than just breathtaking natural beauty. Ushuaia is also home to a unique collection of museums and some fantastic food; so, while the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the region is a major highlight, this is one destination that will prove to be just as memorable as everything else on your itinerary.
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Things to do
Tierra del Fuego National Park
An expansive national park that protects nearly 70,000 hectares of land, the Tierra del Fuego National Park combines marine areas, forests, and mountains to create a truly fascinating place worth exploring if you have the time while visiting Ushuaia. Here, you’ll find everything from luscious woodland and tumbling waterfalls to dramatic mountains and serene lakes. Throughout, you’ll also find evidence of the Yámanas, the first inhabitants of these lands, which serves to remind everyone who spends some time here that this region has been inhabited for more than 10,000 years. With so much to see, this is easily the best place to visit if you’re looking to switch off and embrace the great outdoors.
Museo del Fin del Mundo
If you want to learn more about the city of Ushuaia, Museo del fin del Mundo is the perfect place to go. A living heritage museum that explores the history and culture of Ushuaia and the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, the End of the World Museum (which is its name in English) is home to numerous exhibitions that explore the native history of this region, the local fauna and flora, the traditions and customs of the people here, and even some of the shipwrecks that have happened here over the centuries. Found in parts of the National Bank building and Old Government House, these impressive buildings only serve to highlight the importance of the museum and its contents.
Museo de la Ciudad
Also known as Casa Pena, this former private residence has served as the City Museum in Ushuaia since 2009; with an interesting selection of informative exhibits and historic items, this museum offers visitors a fantastic insight into what ordinary life was like in this city throughout the 20th century – which is when it was originally occupied by the Pena family.