How to Live an Unforgettable Experience in Ushuaia
At the southernmost tip of the Americas, where the Andes Mountains plunge into the ocean, there exists a unique encounter between humans and one of the continent’s most charismatic species: penguins.
Ushuaia, known as the city at the end of the world, not only captivates visitors with its dramatic landscapes of snow-capped mountains and ancient forests but also offers the extraordinary opportunity to share territory with these fascinating birds in their natural habitat.
Discover the Almanza Experience
Seventy kilometers east of Ushuaia, following the winding coast of the Beagle Channel, lies Puerto Almanza, a hidden treasure of southern Patagonia. This small fishing village, internationally recognized for its marine gastronomy, is more than just a point on the map: it’s the gateway to a unique experience with the penguins of Martillo Island.
Martillo Island, a natural sanctuary in the middle of the Beagle Channel, hosts an uncommon spectacle: the coexistence of Magellanic and Gentoo penguins in the same colony. The excursions, carefully designed to minimize environmental impact, allow you to observe these birds from a respectful proximity, offering unique moments for photography and contemplation.
Did you know?
The Gentoo penguins of Martillo Island constitute the only continental colony of this species in South America.While Magellanic penguins migrate annually, Gentoo penguins remain in the area throughout the year.
Experts’ Choice
Explore the secrets of southern Patagonia with our “Argentinean Patagonia, from the Coast to the Andes” package, a 12-day adventure tour that will take you from the Valdés Peninsula to the End of the World. Experience encounters with majestic whales, ancient forests and towering glaciers, as you journey to the southernmost city on Earth.
Sofía
Product Team
Gastronomy in Almanza:
The King Crab Route
The experience in Puerto Almanza goes beyond penguin watching. The famous “King Crab Route” is a feast for the senses that deserves its own mention. In the port’s family restaurants, expert hands of artisanal fishermen transform the fruits of the sea into exceptional dishes.
Did you know?
Ushuaia is considered the king crab capital thanks to the perfect conditions of the Beagle Channel, where its cold waters (between 4 and 8 degrees Celsius) and rich in nutrients not only provide the ideal habitat for these crustaceans, but also develop their characteristic sweet and smooth flavor? In these same pristine waters, Puerto Almanza's fishermen, who preserve artisanal fishing techniques passed down through generations, thus ensuring the sustainability of this precious marine resource
Experts’ Choice
Discover this unique experience in our “End of the World Experience” package,10-day tour combines the rugged beauty of Patagonia with the refined pleasures of local gastronomy. From witnessing majestic penguins in their natural habitat to savoring the exquisite flavors of fresh king crab in Puerto Almanza, this is a once-in-a-lifetime journey to the southernmost corner of the world.
Agostina
Sales Team
Excursions for All Tastes
The birdwatching season, which runs from October to March, offers two types of excursion to suit different preferences:
Almanza Adventure
This full-day excursion is a total immersion in life at the end of the world. During the navigation, visitors not only observe penguins but can also spot other marine species such as cormorants, skuas, and, if lucky, sea lions. The adventure culminates with a delectable lunch at Puerto Almanza, where you’ll savor the freshest king crab and other local seafood delicacies while enjoying breathtaking views of the Beagle Channel.
Almanza at Sunset
For those who prefer a half-day experience, this option combines the best of both worlds: penguin watching and local gastronomy. The journey begins with a scenic navigation through the Beagle Channel, followed by a delicious seafood tasting in Puerto Almanza. The tour includes a visit to the Duende Waterfall, a magical corner hidden in the Fuegian forest that adds a touch of adventure to the experience.
Experts’ Choice
An ideal experience for travellers with limited time: our “Ushuaia, at the End of the World” a 4 day tour that offers an intimate glimpse into the magic and mystery of Ushuaia’s landscapes and flavours. In just a few days, you’ll discover why this remote corner of the world attracts visitors with its unique blend of natural wonders and culinary treasures.
Carolina
Sales Team
Prepare for your Ushuaia Adventure
Clothing
The secret is in the “onion-layer” clothing approach. Multiple thin layers are more effective than a single thick layer.
Essential equipment:
- Quality waterproof clothing
- Water-resistant hiking boots
- Hat and scarf for protection against austral winds
- Thermal gloves
- Windbreaker jacket
- Camera (preferably with zoom lens)
Best Time to Visit
The penguin season in Ushuaia coincides with the most pleasant months of the austral calendar:
- October-November: Colony arrival and nesting period
- December-January: Chick hatching and peak activity
- February-March: Juveniles begin their first ventures into the sea
⭐Expert Tip: If traveling between December and January, book your accommodation several months in advance. It’s high season in Ushuaia, and hotels fill up quickly!
An Encounter with Pristine Nature
The experience of seeing penguins in Ushuaia is more than just a tourist excursion: it’s an intimate encounter with nature in one of its purest states. Here, at the end of the world, these southern ambassadors remind us of the importance of preserving the last wild corners of our planet.
We invite you to be part of this unique adventure, where every moment transforms into an indelible memory and every photograph tells a story of encounter between humans and nature at its finest expression.
Ready to live your own austral adventure?
Contact our experts and start planning your journey to the end of the world.
