There are countless reasons to visit Ushuaia, Argentina.  The picturesque town is surrounded by dramatic mountains, stunning coastline, and rugged wilderness that leaves visitors completely awe-struck.  And, with a rich history and quaint charm, Ushuaia is a captivating gateway to Antarctica and the Tierra del Fuego.

Here are just a few things you shouldn’t miss during your time in the southernmost city in the world.

The Picturesque Waterfront

Located along the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia’s waterfront is accented with enchanting street art, informative sculptures, and fragrant flowers.  Plus, it contains the wreckage of a Royal Navy ship that served at the Normandy Invasion in 1944.  In the summer, you can stroll along the flower-lined pedestrian walkway to watch cruise vessels embark on their journeys to Antarctica.

In the mood for an aquatic adventure?  Then, head out on a cruise of the Beagle Channel to visit the nearby penguin colony!  After, you can commemorate your time with your formal avian friends by visiting Ushuaia’s tourism office.  There, you can ask for a souvenir penguin stamp in your passport.  Talk about an awesome keepsake!

The Alluring Town

Ushuaia is dotted with delectable restaurants, small shops, and eclectic bars throughout its small downtown.  To pass the time, you can browse gifts for that special someone, chat up locals over a drink, or grab a bite with a view.  One restaurant that I love, in particular, is Chez Manu.  The inventive cuisine made with natural products from the Argentine Patagonia is to die for!

For a memorable experience, check out the colorful cluster of tourist offices selling tickets and tours for every imaginable adventure.  From city tours to wilderness trekking to embarking on a cruise, they have you covered!

But, what makes Ushuaia truly unique is how it’s become a mecca for tourists.  Because it’s famed as the southernmost city in the world, travelers come from all over to visit.  Eager to leave their mark, you’ll find signs, windows, and walls covered in stickers from every corner of the globe.

The Intriguing History

Ushuaia has a rich history, much of which surrounds its prison.  Argentina’s most ruthless convicts and notorious political prisoners were brought here until the prison’s closure in 1947.

During that time, the 600 prisoners that occupied the prison’s 380 cells helped to build the city and support its residents.  In addition to constructing buildings, supplying timber, and providing electricity, the prisoners also constructed a railway to the settlement.  Now known as the Tren del Fin del Mundo (End of the World Train), it’s become a popular tourist attraction as the southernmost railway in the world.

Operating into the Tierra del Fuego National Park, the Tren del Fin del Mundo is a great option if you want to see the surrounding landscape.  Plus, you’ll earn bragging rights as a rider on the southernmost functioning railway in the world.  Talk about a photo op!

And there you have it!  Just a few of the many reasons to visit Ushuaia.  It’s an enchanting city that’ll leave you with fond memories from your time at the end of the world.

Have you been to Ushuaia before?  Comment below, I’d love to hear what you thought!

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