Tierra Del Fuego, Argentina
Ushuaia Malvinas Argentinas International Airport (USH) is the main airport, located 4 km south of the city. It mainly handles domestic flights. No direct international flights originate from outside South America; travelers connect via Buenos Aires.
Ushuaia Airport is modern, with currency exchange, ATMs, duty-free, and car rental desks. Wi-Fi is generally available. Transfer options to the city include taxis, remises, and a public bus service.
Flights are most frequent and expensive in high season (Dec-Mar). Book several months in advance.
Lower prices and good availability in shoulder season (Oct-Nov, Apr-May) for flight deals.
Fewer flights and lower prices in low season (Jun-Sep), unless during ski events.
Departure taxes usually include in airline ticket prices; no separate exit fee.
For domestic flights, arrive at least 1.5-2 hours before departure.
Follow instructions from your cruise line for check-out and transfers.
Land travel to mainland Argentina involves briefly crossing into Chile via Paso San Sebastián and a ferry across the Strait of Magellan. A valid passport, vehicle registration, and insurance are needed for border crossings.
Buses connect Ushuaia with Río Grande and Tolhuin. Direct long-distance buses to cities like Punta Arenas (Chile) or Río Gallegos (Argentina) are available, involving border crossings and long journeys.
Rental cars are available from the airport and city center (Hertz, Avis, local agencies). A valid driver’s license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) are highly recommended. A credit card for deposit is also needed.
Roads within Ushuaia and to Tierra del Fuego National Park are generally paved and in good condition. Roads to other towns are mostly paved. For off-piste or winter travel, a 4x4 vehicle may be advisable.
Ushuaia is a major port for cruises to Antarctica and Patagonian fjords. The city’s main pier (Muelle Turístico) is centrally located. Smaller catamarans operate tourist excursions in the Beagle Channel, focusing on sightseeing to islands and lighthouses, not regular passenger ferry services.
Immigration procedures at the seaport are similar to those at the airport; present your passport. Cruise ship operators typically streamline much of the paperwork. The port's central location makes it easy to connect to land transportation.
Ushuaia is a main gateway for Antarctic and Patagonian fjord cruises.
Small boats for sightseeing to islands and famous lighthouses.
Port location allows easy access to city amenities upon arrival.
Departure taxes are typically included in airline ticket prices for flights originating from Argentina. No separate exit fee applies for tourists. Plan to arrive at Ushuaia Airport at least 1.5-2 hours before your scheduled domestic flight departure. For international connections via Buenos Aires, allot ample time for the transfer between airports.
Confirm flight status. Have all necessary travel documents accessible. Plan airport transfer well in advance.