Ushuaia is a very special place, not only is it Argentina’s (and the world’s) furthest point but it is a town full of charm. Picture houses made of corrugated iron and a village atmosphere, it is a big contrast to Buenos Aires. It also does not get dark until 10pm which adds to its character.
If you do not want to get a bus (maybe you’re on a tight time frame) then you can get a flight from Buenos Aires, it takes around 3 hours. Top tip for flights, if you can leave your luggage in B.A. then definitely do as it saves a lot of money!
We stayed in ‘Antarctica Hostel’ which is a little on the pricey side, but worth it as it is super comfortable and warm! It also has a nice common area and breakfast is included. Generally the breakfasts in Argentina are not the best, most of them consist of bread, jam and very watery coffee. This was the first time that I had been in a hostel with my Mum and Rob so it felt a little strange, as I was doing all the ‘backpacker’ norms (staying in a dorm, talking to people in the common area) but it also felt like I was on a family holiday.
On our first day we decided to take the train to the ‘end of the world’, which took us through the national park. This was our first glimpse of Patagonian landscapes and it was stunning, seeing the Andes as a backdrop reminded me very much of Peru, if not better. As you can imagine the train was very touristy and gimmicky with people trying to take your photo and various stop offs to see the ‘view’. The end of the world point was also very underwhelming. I think it would be better to walk through the national park then take the train!
The main thing to do in Ushuaia is to visit penguin island, the tour (Pira tour) is a little expensive but it is well worth it, seeing an island full of penguins was magical and something I will never forget. Not only do you see penguins but you also stop off at various points to see sea lions and native birds. As soon as you step off the boat onto penguin island you are greeted by two types of penguin X and X. The way they waddle is so cute and the baby ones are adorable! The penguins did not seem scared at all by our prescience, many were on the pathway and one was even hidden under the stairs! Pira tour were an exceptional tour company with passionate guides who genuinely care about the wildlife.
There are many restaurants in Ushuaia including a hard rock which dominates the high street. The first one we visited was ‘Ramos Generales’ this was a place where you could go for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It had very quirky decor including a unicycle and type writer. The food was good, there are many lighter options. The second night we went to Bar Ideal (the oldest bar in Ushuaia), the food here was not great, it lacked flavour and spice. It was more of a pub which could be fun for some drinks! Another good bar with pub food was ‘Van Gough’, the staff were super friendly and the chips were nice. There is also an awesome chocolate shop called Laguna Negra on the high street, we visited that place many times!
We only got to stay 2 nights in Ushuaia, I could have definitely stayed for 4 as I loved its charm and cuteness.
Romy's Roamings 