Getting Around: Ushuaia

Public Transportation

Ushuaia operates a local bus system (Colectivos) with lines A, B, and C, covering main city areas and some outer attractions. There is no metro or tram system. Buses are the main form of public transport. The city center, especially along Avenida San Martín, acts as the main hub.

The SUBE card is needed for bus fares; cash payment is not accepted. Purchase and load cards at kiosks displaying the "SUBE" sign. Fares are inexpensive. Buses run from early morning until late evening, with reduced frequency on weekends.

Bus System Overview

Lines: A, B, C cover city areas and some attractions.
SUBE Card: Required for payment, available at kiosks.
Hours: Approximately 6 AM to 10-11 PM daily.
Maps: Available at tourist information or online.

Affordable Fares

Bus fares are inexpensive, making them a budget-friendly way to travel.

Easy Navigation

Use Google Maps or local bus apps for real-time tracking and route planning.

Local Assistance

Locals and bus drivers are usually helpful if you have questions about routes or stops.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis & Remises

Taxis are black and yellow with a roof sign, using meters.
Remises are private cars, pre-booked or at stands; fares are agreed upfront.
You can hail taxis on the street or call them.

Fares & Apps

Fares are reasonable for short distances.
Cash (Argentine Pesos) is preferred payment; confirm card acceptance.
Ride-sharing apps like Uber are not widely operational here; local services dominate.

Safety & Airport Transfers

Licensed Services

Generally safe; look for official markings.

Avoid Unmarked Cars

Stick to official taxis for safety and fair pricing.

Airport Taxis

Available outside terminal; fixed price boards.

Remis Desks

Inside airport for pre-booking your ride.

Rental Options

Car rentals provide flexibility for exploring beyond the city. Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common due to climate. Bicycle rentals are available at some hotels.

Car Rental

Companies: Major international (Hertz, Avis) and local agencies.
Requirements: Valid license, International Driving Permit (IDP), credit card.
Book in advance, especially during high season.
Cross-border: Arrange specific documentation with rental company.

Driving & Road Conditions

Roads: Paved within city and to major attractions, mostly paved elsewhere.
Winter: 4x4 may be advisable due to snow/ice; winter tires may be needed.
Wildlife: Watch for animals on rural roads, especially at dusk/dawn.
Fuel: Fewer stations outside Ushuaia/Río Grande; plan stops.

Other Rental Options

Motorcycle/Scooter: Less common due to climate/terrain.
Bicycle: Some hotels or specialized shops offer rentals.
No specialty vehicle options like tuk-tuks or jeepneys.

Driving Laws: Drive on right, seatbelts mandatory.
Headlights always on national routes.
Parking: Street parking available, may be tight in city center.

Rental Car Considerations

Advance Booking

Book cars well in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure availability and better rates.

IDP Importance

An International Driving Permit is highly recommended and often required by rental agencies.

Cross-Border Fees

Driving into Chile with a rental car incurs additional fees for necessary documentation.

Walking & Cycling

Ushuaia city center is very walkable, with many attractions along Avenida San Martín and Maipú. The waterfront promenade is pleasant for walks. Bicycle infrastructure is limited to dedicated lanes, but cycling is recreational on certain trails.

Pedestrian Areas

City center is highly pedestrian-friendly.
Main streets: Avenida San Martín and Maipú.
Waterfront promenade along the Beagle Channel for pleasant strolls.
Many attractions, restaurants, and shops concentrate in the center.

Cycling & Safety

Limited dedicated bicycle lanes exist.
Cycling is popular for recreation on certain trails or roads.
No specific "no-go" areas within main tourist zones due to crime.
Avoid unlit areas at night as a general safety measure.

Walking Tour Options

Guided City Tours

Several local operators offer historical and cultural walking tours.

Explore with local insights.

Self-Guided Walks

Easy to arrange using maps and online resources.

Flexibility and independence.

Trail Safety

Remote mountain trails need proper preparation and weather awareness.

Consider a guide for remote areas.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses & Water Transport

Tour Buses: Guided bus tours to National Park, Martial Glacier, city highlights.
No formal hop-on-hop-off bus system.
No "boat taxis"; only regular catamaran/boat tours on Beagle Channel.

Unique Transport & Accessibility

Chairlift to Martial Glacier: Provides access to trails and views.
Accessibility: Hilly terrain and uneven sidewalks may be challenging for mobility needs.
Taxis may be a convenient option for those with mobility issues.

Restricted Areas & General Caution

Unlit areas at night: Avoid for general safety.
Remote mountain trails: Proper preparation and weather knowledge are .
Construction zones: Exercise caution.
Stray dogs: Be aware, specifically outside tourist areas.

Noise levels: Can be high in city center at night.
Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost.
Weather shifts: Always monitor local forecasts before activities.
Pickpocketing: Rare, but remain vigilant in crowded spots.

Navigation Tip

Download offline maps for Google Maps or Maps.me before venturing outside areas with consistent internet access.

This ensures you have navigation even without mobile signal.

Getting Around Ushuaia