Located in the southern tip of South America, Ushuaia is a resort town with penguins, whales, glaciers and other natural wonders. It is nicknamed the "End of the World" and is the gateway to Antarctica cruises.
Historical significance
Located on the southern tip of South America, Ushuaia is one of the most remote cities in the world. It is situated in Tierra del Fuego on the Beagle Channel. It is the capital of the Argentinian province of Tierra del Fuego.
Ushuaia has played a pivotal role in the 1982 conflict between Argentina and the United Kingdom. The naval base of Ushuaia was active during the Falklands War. In 1996, a memorial to ARA General Belgrano was erected in the city.
There are several museums in Ushuaia. There is the Antarctic Museum, which features detailed ship models. It also explores the lives of famous explorers. There is the Museo del Fin del Mundo, which is small and offers information on the native animals and birds. There is also a food exhibit.
Lakes near Ushuaia
Seeing the lakes around Ushuaia can be a highlight of your visit to Patagonia. These pristine and awe-inspiring waters are a true testament to the natural beauty of the region. The lakes themselves offer excellent fishing opportunities as well as a host of other outdoor activities, from hiking to kayaking. The surrounding wetlands are also home to an array of wildlife.
There is no shortage of tours to these destinations. However, you can also make the journey on your own. Roads to these destinations aren't that difficult to navigate, and most visitors will find their way there in less than a day. Those who choose to rent a 4 wheel drive or other commercial vehicle will be rewarded with a scenic drive through the native forests of Tierra del Fuego.
Diving
Located on the south coast of Isla Grande de Terra del Fuego, Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world. It is also the capital of the Tierra del Fuego province. It has around 60,000 people. It is known for its outdoor activities and local cuisine. Cruise ships often visit the town.
Ushuaia is an excellent location for diving. It has a subpolar oceanic climate, and it's home to a wide range of plant and animal life. The kelp forest is a spectacular sight to behold, and snorkelers will enjoy floating over it.
You can dive in Ushuaia at any time of year. However, the best times are spring, summer and autumn. The air and water temperatures vary depending on the season, and the visibility is also affected by plankton in the sea.
Penguins
Thousands of locals and visitors travel to see penguins in Ushuaia every year. The best time to view these adorable creatures is between November and February.
There are several companies that offer penguin tours. However, if you want the most impressive experience, visit Martillo Island. This island is home to two different species of penguins. These include Papua and Gentoo penguins.
This is one of the most exciting things to do in Ushuaia. It involves a short boat ride from Estancia Harberton. Guests are allowed to walk with the penguins for about an hour. During this time, the guide will explain the behavior of these birds.
Camping
Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking to spend a weekend away, there are plenty of options for camping in Ushuaia. It's a small city surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and offers excellent hiking opportunities. If you're interested in adventure, Ushuaia is also an excellent jumping off point for Antarctica trips.
The town has two municipal campgrounds, one of which is free. The other is a paid option. While they don't have a lot of facilities, the ones that are available are pretty decent.
There are also several campsites located outside of Ushuaia. If you're lucky enough to find a spot that is open, you'll enjoy a stunning view of the Beagle Channel.
Weather
Located in the far south of Argentina, Ushuaia has a cold oceanic climate. The climate is unstable, meaning that it changes throughout the year. The temperatures in Ushuaia are mainly above freezing during the day and below freezing at night.
The weather in Ushuaia is generally windy. The average wind speed is around 14.5 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze. The highest sustained wind speeds occur in early December.
The average humidity in Ushuaia is 80%. The most humid month in Ushuaia is June. The coldest night in Ushuaia is usually -1 degC. The wettest months of the year in Ushuaia are January and February.