When in the Americas, head as far south as possible and eventually you’ll reach Ushuaia, a city that rests at the very bottom of Argentinian Patagonia. Considered the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia has always been a destination for adventure seekers, dating back to the times of Magellan’s circumnavigation and FitzRoy’s hydrographic surveys.

A launch point for the exploration of Tierra del Fuego (named for the numerous fires that dotted the hillsides when first seen by Europeans), the city, albeit isolated, has something to offer each and every visitor. From traipsing through the Andes on foot to learning about native flora and fauna on board a ship, you can, rest assured that at the end of the world, there’s plenty to keep you busy.

The port of Ushuaia sits in front of the snow-covered Andes Mountains.

Hike in Tierra del Fuego National Park

Whether you want a leisurely stroll or a rigorous climb, the park offers a plethora of trails. One of the most challenging is Cerro Guanaco, a five mile excursion that can take anywhere from 2-5 hours. Expect a handful of natural obstacles to navigate, be it large roots, small streams or, if it has rained, mud. At one point I found myself nearly parallel to the ground, clinging to trees in an attempt to avoid sinking up to my knees. But the views are well worth the effort as, from the top, peat bogs, mountains, and turquoise water stretch out below. Visit in the fall and the foliage makes it feel as though you truly are in the “Land of Fire.”

Reach the end of the PanAmerican Highway

Not far from the city you’ll find a sign indicating the end of this multi-continent, roughly 19,000 mile road.  Starting in Alaska, and actually consisting of multiple roads, here, in Ushuaia the pavement reaches the water. With, quite literally, no land left, you find yourself standing at the end of the world.

Navigate the Beagle Channel

Named after the ship HMS Beagle, which sailed the passage during its first hydrographic survey in the 1820s, the Channel provides visitors the opportunity to see local wildlife. Isla de los Pájaros (Bird Island) boasts a massive population of king cormorants while Isla del Los Lobos is home to numerous seals and sea lions. You cannot set foot onto either but your boat captain will circle each expertly, giving you ample opportunity to spot the animals.

Photograph Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse

While in the Beagle Channel, you’ll likely pass this beautiful structure, standing alone on one of the five small rock formations that make up Les Eclaireurs islands. The lighthouse stands 36 feet high with its flashing light now operated by remote control. Surrounded by stunning landscape and often somewhat ominous weather, Les Eclaireurs is a photographer’s dream.

Explore Port Williams

The last fueling stop for most Antarctic cruises, this small town lays claim to the title of the southernmost in the world (Ushuaia is a city). With a handful of hostels on shore, guests can stay overnight to advantage of numerous multi-day treks or opt to simply swing through as part of a larger tour. While there, be sure to check out The Martin Gusinde Anthropological Museum. You’ll learn all about the lives of the indigenous populations who inhabited Tierra del Fuego prior to European arrival.  Boasting around 2,000 inhabitants, Port Williams actually belongs to Chile, due to its location along the  South side of the Beagle Channel, so be sure to have your passport at the ready.

Waddle with Penguins on Isla Martillo

Turns out you don’t have to cross the Drake’s Passage in order to surround yourself with these tuxedoed birds. Hop onboard and head out to see the Gentoo and Magellanic penguins that live on the island’s beaches. Be sure to book a boat that has zodiacs (smaller rubber boats) so that you can, in fact, go ashore. You can find full day excursions that also include the lighthouse and both Isla de los Pájaros and Isla de los Lobos, if that’s of interest.

(If you truly love these birds, check out a post about the lives of penguins in Antarctica)

Appreciate the Past

Ushuaia is home to numerous museums, namely The End of the World Museum, The Maritime Museum and La Galería Tematica Historia Fueguina. Each focuses on a different aspect of the town’s history: from its days as a Navy base to its decades as a site for a large Argentinian prison. Learn about Magellan, Drake, the Yaghan people and the factors that have given Ushuaia the identity it has today.

Venture off the Beaten Path

You might think by simply landing in Ushuaia, you’re already doing just that. And yet, a jeep 4×4 excursion, be it for a half or full day, can take you even further into the natural surroundings. Heading up into the Andes, you’ll meet locals (I had the good fortune to encounter a beaver hunter living without a phone, computer or car), bid pavement farewell and set out on an off-roading adventure. Navigating numerous natural obstacles, from roots to hills which, at times, the vehicle will, at times, lean at a 45 degree angle. Driving through small rivers, the water will rise above the hood and in through the doors. You’ll even venture directly into one of the many lakes in the area.

Experience an Asado

Argentina is famous for its meat and subsequently its barbeque, or asado. Hot coals, heated within a fire, are removed and placed under a metal griddle on which the meat sits (another variation has the asador placing the griddle directly onto the slow-burning fire). While the grilling process gives new meaning to the concept of slow-cooking, the end result is well worth the wait. From chorizo to morcilla, you can’t go wrong, especially when you add the chimichurri.  It’s truly an experience!

Visit the Lakes

Numerous bodies of water sit a stone’s throw from Ushuaia, accessible either on foot or via car. If you’re looking for a relatively mild hike that offers stunning views, The Emerald Lagoon is just outside the city. Otherwise you can explore Lake Escondido, which sits at the base of the Garibaldi Pass and Lake Fagnano, along the Magellan Fault. Both lakes are prime destinations for hiking, camping, fly fishing or simply a photo.  

Shop ‘til You Drop

Along San Martin, Ushuaia’s main street, you’ll find a wide variety of stores selling anything from souvenirs to serious outdoor gear. Wine and chocolate shops, such as Quelhue,  offer visitors a chance to enjoy local provisions. In Paseos de los Artesanos, you can buy handmade jewelry, wool crafts, and mates (Argentinian tea cups). Wander the street and you’re bound to find at least one store of interest.

Enjoy the Winter

It’s true, most foreign tourists make their way to Ushuaia in the summer (after-all Antarctic tours only run November-January); but Tierra del Fuego offers a wide variety of winter activities as well. Cerro Castor ski resort, despite its lower elevation, sees significant snow and has runs for all ability levels. If downhill isn’t your jam, tour operators also offer visitors the opportunity to partake in one of the world’s oldest forms of transportation, dog sledding. Hop in and hold on as the huskies take off through the snowy landscape. Or take a stab at mushing!

*If you find yourself exploring other parts of Patagonia, check out the Explora Lodge in Torres del Paine National Park.