5 Summer Excursions in Ushuaia: Penguins, Beagle Channel and Lakes

Categorías: Hiking and trekking, What to do in Ushuaia, Ushuaia Guides

Five excursions for a summer holiday in Ushuaia

With longer days and generally milder temperatures, summer in Ushuaia is an excellent season for nature, wildlife and outdoor adventures. From navigating the Beagle Channel to trekking through Tierra del Fuego National Park, there are activities for different interests and levels of experience.

Here are the five excursions featured in the original Turismo en Ushuaia guide, with advice on comparing actual itineraries and services before booking.

1. Navigate to the penguin colony at Martillo Island

A penguin colony cruise lets you see one of Tierra del Fuego’s most distinctive seasonal wildlife experiences. Magellanic penguins and smaller numbers of Gentoo penguins gather in the region of Martillo Island during the breeding season.

Some trips depart from Ushuaia’s tourist pier, sailing east along the Beagle Channel while passing marine scenery, seabirds and sea lions. Watching penguins in their natural habitat can be especially appealing for families and photographers, provided that wildlife distances and guide instructions are respected. Shore access is not included in every excursion.

See the penguin colony navigation for the operator’s route and seasonal conditions. Sightings depend on nature and weather.

2. Beagle Channel cruise to Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse

The Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse is one of the most photographed landmarks in Ushuaia, standing on a rocky islet in the Beagle Channel. It is sometimes nicknamed the Lighthouse at the End of the World, although the historical lighthouse associated with Jules Verne is San Juan de Salvamento on Isla de los Estados.

Many classic boat trips pass Isla de los Lobos and Isla de los Pájaros, where sea lions and cormorants may be observed. Operators may use different types of vessels, including smaller boats or larger catamarans, and routes vary.

Compare the Beagle Channel navigation and confirm the departure pier, duration and included stops.

3. Trekking in Tierra del Fuego National Park

Tierra del Fuego National Park combines mountains, coastline, lakes and native forests. The original guide highlights the Coastal Trail with views towards the Beagle Channel, together with walks through lenga and coihue forests and scenic viewpoints.

Some excursions also combine guided walking with canoeing, but activities, difficulty and access differ by provider. Choose trails suitable for your fitness and check current park information.

Explore the train and National Park experience for one published option, and check the exact walking included.

4. Landscapes and local flavours

For travellers who enjoy scenery and food, the original article recommends Paisajes y Delicias, a guided experience combining viewpoints around Ushuaia with regional snacks and local gastronomy. The city, mountains and Beagle Channel offer panoramic stops for photographs while travellers discover a different side of Tierra del Fuego.

Before reserving, check whether the named excursion is currently being offered and exactly which refreshments, transport and stops are included. Alternatively, plan your own visit to cafés, restaurants and scenic waterfront points around the city.

5. Off-road 4×4 excursion to the Fuegian lakes

An off-road 4×4 lakes tour crosses parts of Tierra del Fuego’s scenic interior, with views towards Lake Escondido and Lake Fagnano. Depending on the programme, the experience can include forest tracks, viewpoint stops and a meal in the countryside.

The original guide also mentions the possibility of combining some lake excursions with packrafting. This is an operator-specific activity and is not included in every 4×4 tour. Confirm equipment, meals and any water-based activity before paying.

See the 4×4 lakes excursion for current product details.

Plan your Ushuaia summer excursions

Summer brings a wonderful range of activities, but wind and rain are still possible. Bring waterproof layers, allow flexibility for changes in weather and reserve popular excursions in advance when needed.

Compare published excursions in Ushuaia and accommodation options to plan your trip.