10 best things to do in Ushuaia | Travel News
1.Stroll Through Downtown
San Martin, the bustling main street in the heart of Ushuaia, is a must-visit for its vibrant mix of seafood and parrilla (grill) restaurants, churro vendors, souvenir shops, and chocolate stores. Don't miss Laguna Negra, where a chocolate replica of a cruise ship decorates the window, and inside, you’ll find handcrafted chocolates filled with everything from rice crispies to the local calafate berry.
2. Embark on a Hike
With its striking landscapes, Ushuaia offers numerous hiking trails in the surrounding foothills. One of the most popular is the Laguna Esmeralda trek, a scenic three-hour round-trip hike to a dazzling aquamarine lagoon. Conveniently, the trailhead is accessible via Uber, which is surprisingly common in the city.
3. Stay at Las Hayas
For breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, check into Las Hayas Ushuaia Resort. This cozy four-star lodge, crafted with wooden interiors and warm furnishings, provides a complimentary shuttle service to town throughout the day. Nestled in the forest behind the resort is a spa featuring an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and both indoor and outdoor hot tubs.
4. Indulge in Local Pastries
Ushuaia boasts a thriving bakery scene. When you need a sweet pick-me-up, head to Ana y Juana for matcha lattes and oversized alfajores (soft cookies filled with dulce de leche). For churro lovers, Dody Churros specializes in crispy treats and medialunas (crescent-shaped pastries), while Dulces Pau serves up delectable cakes.
5. Explore Tierra del Fuego
The stunning Tierra del Fuego National Park stretches across 63,000 hectares, with only 4% open to visitors. Guided tours are offered with stops at Lake Roca, Lapataia Bay and a trip on the End of the World Train, which winds through breathtaking scenery.
6. Savor King Crab
Known locally as centolla, king crab is a regional delicacy, and several restaurants serve their own versions. One of the best spots is El Viejo Marino, a family-run eatery opposite the port, where you can enjoy fresh crab and prawns. Opt for a whole crab or try the "centolla natural," simply prepared with a squeeze of lemon.
7. Cruise the Beagle Channel
Board a catamaran to sail the Beagle Channel, the legendary waterway marking the border between Argentina and Chile. This scenic route is home to colonies of sea lions, seabirds, and penguins, with stunning views of Ushuaia’s rugged mountain backdrop.
8. Take Home a Local Souvenir
Despite its small population of 90,000, Ushuaia offers great shopping opportunities. Browse Piedras Preciosas for unique jewelry featuring Argentine gemstones like rodocrosita, a pink-hued stone. A few doors down, La Blanqueada sells elegant leather mate cups, perfect for tea lovers.
9. Feast on Argentinian BBQ
Prepare for a meat lover’s paradise at Parrilla La Estancia, where you can indulge in a feast of cordero asador (spit-roasted lamb), pork, chorizo, black pudding, and juicy beef cuts. Served sizzling on a hot plate, these grilled specialties pair perfectly with spicy chimichurri and a glass of local Malbec.
10. Step Into History at a Former Prison
Before becoming the gateway to Antarctica, Ushuaia was a penal colony. The Maritime and Prison Museum provides an in-depth look at the city’s history, including exhibits on the Yamana people, known for their nomadic canoeing lifestyle, and the many shipwrecks that have occurred in the region.
From outdoor adventures to culinary delights and historical explorations, Ushuaia offers an unforgettable experience at the edge of the world.
