Overview Located along the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world. It's also the capital of the Argentine province of Tierra del Fuego (a large island off of Argentina's mainland). The main attractions in this area are nature related. Being the closest city to Antarctica has garnered a lot of attention for this interesting city.
During the first half of the 20th century this area was actually a penal colony, as it was centered around a prison reserved for very serious criminals. The prisoners were put to work in the then underdeveloped area, and because of their labor this area started to become built up. They even built a railway leading to this area, known today as the End of the World Train (as it's the southernmost railway in the world). Many of the residents that live in Ushuaia today are actually descendants of the prisoners that originally built up this area. In 1947 the prison was closed and it became a naval base.
Ushuaia is actually a popular vacation spot for natives of Buenos Aires (the, more northern, capital city of Argentina).
Because of its very southern location, Ushuaia has a lot of rain and snow throughout the year. In fact, it can even snow during the summer in this area. Ushuaia is also known to have quite strong winds, which is noticeable from the bent trees that follow the direction of the wind as they grow. The warmest months of the year in Ushuaia are January through March, with average high temperatures in the mid-50s (°F). The coldest months are June and July, with an average daily high of 39°F.
Destinations The following destinations can be visited on a cruise leaving from Ushuaia, Argentina:
Antarctica
Currency The official currency of Argentina is the Peso (ARS). Using a credit card whenever possible is a great way to avoid having to exchange currency. ATM machines are available, but make sure you use one that works with the card you're using.
Language The official language of Argentina is Spanish. English is understood and spoken by many locals, especially in tourist areas.
Tourist Attractions San Martin is the main shopping street in Ushuaia. It's right in the heart of town. There's also an area where locals sell various crafts and souvenirs right by the cruise terminal. Shoppers will be happy, as this is a tax-free shopping area!
The End of the World Train, whose real name is the Southern Fuegian Railway, is considered to be the most southern railway in the world. It takes its passengers on a ride into the Tierra del Fuego National Park. Although this train was originally a prison train, it has been refurbished and is now more luxurious, serving champagne and dinner to its guests.
Tierra del Fuego National Park, founded in 1960, features waterfalls, mountains, glaciers and forests. There are also several wildlife species in this area, such as birds, ducks, foxes and beavers. As explained above, the End of the World Train takes tourists to this area. Popular activities in this area include horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking. Hammer Island is a nearby area that features a penguin colony.
Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse is known as the Lighthouse at the End of the World. It was originally put into service in 1920 and is a popular tourist attraction in this area. Short boat tours can take tourists to this lighthouse.
There are skiing areas in this area. Among them are like Cerro Castor and Glaciar Martial. Ushuaia actually has the longest skiing season in South America. This is a result of constant temperatures typically prevalent during the winter in Ushuaia. At Glaciar Martial (a large glacier) there's a chair lift that takes visitors to the top, providing an amazing view of the surrounding area.
Other popular activities in this area include taking a walking tour of the town, giving a nice overview of the main attractions in the area, and fishing. If you decide to take the walking tour you're sure to be shown the replica that was recreated to resemble what the town used to look like back in its very early years. Be sure to check out The Ushuaia Prison Museum, which was the original jail back in the early 20th century.
Port Location The cruise ship terminal is located right in the center of town, within walking distance of just about everything in town. There should be taxis waiting at the end of the dock.
