Description
This half-day excursion invites visitors to explore Tierra del Fuego National Park, the only national protected area on the island. Located just 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) west of Ushuaia, near the border with Chile, this pristine reserve showcases the untamed beauty of Patagonia at the very edge of the continent.
Leaving the city along National Route 3, the journey offers a glimpse into Ushuaia’s past and present, with the guide sharing stories that weave together its indigenous heritage, pioneer history, and life in the southernmost city on Earth.
Inside the park, the landscape is dominated by dense beech forests — lenga, ñire, and coihue — interspersed with native shrubs and wildflowers that bring seasonal bursts of color. The region’s wildlife is just as remarkable: native Fuegian red foxes roam the undergrowth, while introduced species such as beavers and rabbits have left their mark on the environment. Bird enthusiasts will find no shortage of activity, with over 90 species recorded in the area.
Among the highlights are Ensenada Bay, home to the charming “End of the World” post office where travelers can send postcards from this remote location; the tranquil Roca Lake, whose glacial waters reflect the surrounding peaks; and Lapataia Bay, where the forest meets the sea in a dramatic embrace. Short, scenic walks near the lake reveal impressive beaver dams, a testament to the impact of this non-native species.
The visit culminates at Lapataia Bay, marking the southernmost terminus of National Route 3, part of the legendary Pan-American Highway. A signpost here records the distance to Buenos Aires: 1,903 miles (3,063 kilometers) away — a symbolic endpoint for the world’s longest land route.
After approximately four hours, the excursion returns to Ushuaia, leaving visitors with lasting memories of this wild and remote landscape.
