Subscribe

Getty Images/Flickr RF

Tierra del Fuego

The southernmost extreme of the Americas, this windswept archipelago is as alluring as it is moody – by turns beautiful, ancient and strange. Travelers who first came for the ends-of-the-earth novelty discover a destination that’s far more complex than a mere source of bragging rights. Intrigue remains in a past storied with shipwrecks, indigenous peoples and failed missions. In Tierra del Fuego, nature is writ bold and reckless, from the scoured plains, rusted peat bogs and mossy lenga forests to the snowy ranges above the Beagle Channel.

While distant and isolated, Tierra del Fuego is by no means cut off from the mainland, though the Argentine half is far more developed. Ports buzz with commerce and oil refineries prosper, while adventure seekers descend in droves to fly fish, hike and begin Antarctic cruises. Shared with Chile, this archipelago features one large island, Isla Grande, Chile’s Isla Navarino and many smaller uninhabited isles.

Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Tierra del Fuego.

  • See

    Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego

    West of Ushuaia some 12km along RN 3, Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego was Argentina’s first coastal national park. Its 630 sq km span from the Beagle Channel to the south to beyond Lago Fagnano in the north. For information, visit the Centro de Visitantes Alakush. There's public access to the southern edge of the park, with short, easy trails designed more for day-tripping families than backpacking trekkers. The rest is protected as a reserva natural estricta (strictly off-limits zone).

  • See

    Museo Acatushún

    The impressive Museo Acatushún was created by Natalie Prosser Goodall, a North American biologist who married into the extended Bridges family. Emphasizing the region’s marine mammals, the museum has inventoried thousands of mammal and bird specimens; among the rarest is a Hector’s beaked whale. Much of this vast collection was found at Bahía San Sebastián, north of Río Grande, where an 11km difference between high and low tides leaves creatures stranded. Confirm the museum’s opening hours with Estancia Harberton.

  • See

    Museo Histórico Kami

    If you make one stop in Tolhuin, check out this museum, which is especially worthwhile for Spanish speakers. A former 1920s police post, the little house is now dedicated to regional history, starting with the Selk'nam people. One exhibit documents community members’ stories of the still-recent pioneer times. It’s next to Camping Hain, on Lago Fagnano. Don’t be too shy to ask for a tour.

  • See

    Museo Marítimo & Museo del Presidio

    Convicts were transferred from Isla de los Estados to Ushuaia in 1906 to build this national prison, finished in 1920. The depressing cells, designed for 380 inmates, held up to 800 before the prison closed in 1947. Famous prisoners include author Ricardo Rojas and anarchist Simón Radowitzky. The depiction of penal life is intriguing, but information is only in Spanish. Maritime exhibits provide a unique glimpse of the region’s history.

  • See

    Parque Hain

    The product of a creative mind that never sleeps, this offbeat playground is styled entirely from recycled materials, namely 5000 wooden pallets, tires fashioned into playforms and bottles forming decorative motifs. Created by Roberto Barbel, who also owns the campground across the street with similar whimsy on display, it’s a kick to take in.

  • See

    Parque Yatana

    Part art project, part urban refuge, this city block of lenga forest is being preserved from encroaching development. The forest, whose name in Yaghan means 'weave,' is a spot for indigenous people to practice their crafts, which are shown at the art center in the park and throughout the hiking trails.

  • See

    Museo del Fin del Mundo

    Built in 1903, this former bank, close to the port, contains exhibits on Fuegian natural history, stuffed birdlife, photos of natives and early penal colonies, and replicas of moderate interest. Information is provided in Spanish with English translations. Guided visits are at 11am and 3:30pm.

  • See

    Casa Beban

    Casa Beban was built between 1911 and 1913 using materials ordered from Sweden. It sometimes hosts local art exhibits. Guided tours are offered but aren't necessary unless you're fascinated by detailed history. You won't need more than half an hour to see everything.

  • See

    Iglesia de la Merced

    The century-old Iglesia de la Merced was built with convict labor. Don't make a special trip to see it, but if you pass by when strolling the main street of Av San Martín, stop in for a few minutes.