After nearly 30 hours of flying and three layovers, I finally set foot in the city at the end of the world—Ushuaia. My first encounter with this place was through the movie “Happy Together,” which romantically described it as a place where the broken-hearted go to leave their sorrows behind, symbolized by a lighthouse standing at the edge of the world.
As a gateway to Antarctica, Ushuaia exudes an isolated and haunting charm. This time, I had the chance to witness the legendary lighthouse. While waiting for my Antarctic expedition, I discovered several captivating spots in the town that are well worth exploring.
🌈 Tierra del Fuego National Park: A must-visit attraction in Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego National Park offers a unique experience. You can send postcards from the End of the World Post Office, run by a laid-back old man who often keeps irregular hours. Don’t miss the train to the end of the world, a journey that can be experienced in three ways: 1.
Join a half-day tour; 2. Take a bus from the terminal, which stops at three points, ideal for hiking with three distinct trails; 3. If you’re in a group, hire a taxi for a more personalized visit to all the key sites.
🌈 Beagle Channel Cruise: An absolute highlight, I opted for the 3-hour cruise, which includes a 25-minute hike on a small island, offering close encounters with seabirds, sea lions, and, of course, the iconic lighthouse. For a more extended adventure, the 5-hour cruise takes you to Penguin Island to see penguins up close.
Departures are available every morning and afternoon. Book a day in advance at the pier or, if you prefer, on-site. The pier is lined with charming travel agencies in small houses, making it easy to compare and choose the best option.
🌈 City Walk
Despite its compact size, Ushuaia is a walker’s paradise, though you can also join a City Tour by bus. The main street, Saint Martin, is dotted with souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes, though prices can be steep. Here are some must-see spots:
1. Ushuaia fin del mundo: A quaint sign marking the end of the world, located at a small house on the pier, perfect for a memorable photo.
2. Ushuaia: A landmark with striking white lettering.
3. Penguin Wall: Navigate to Cafe Xpresso 🐧 to find this delightful mural.
4. Ushuaia Tourist Information Office: Near the pier, this tourist center offers a unique stamp to commemorate your visit.
5. Coastal Walkway: Stroll along the scenic coastal path from Cartel Ushuaia to Base Naval Ushuaia, enjoying the refreshing sea breeze.
6. Maritime Museum (Old Ushuaia Prison): This fascinating museum, housed in a former prison, showcases maritime and penal history.
🦀 Recommended Restaurants for King Crab:
– Bamboo: The southernmost Chinese restaurant in the world, also offering a buffet.
– El Viejo Marino: Renowned for its king crab, this popular spot often has long queues, but it’s worth the wait.
I’ve always been fascinated by Ushuaia’s unique vibe. The combination of its remote location and stunning landscapes seems perfect for a true adventurer. Watching “Happy Together” really added a poetic layer to my perception of the place. It sounds like an unforgettable journey!