Argentina’s coastline is full of nature’s most amazing locations. Sprawling cities such as Buenos Aires show the majestic timelessness of this South American nation. But on the southernmost tip of Argentina lies one of the country’s most beautiful natural gems—Tierra del Fuego National Park. Ushuaia, the area’s capital, is also considered to be the southernmost city of the world. It’s a breathtaking sight to behold nestled below an imposing mountain range. This visual spectacle is one that is sure to make a mark on anyone’s memory.
The town of Ushuaia; southernmost city in the world.
The Ushuaia airport runway and its wonderful natural setting.
The ancient character of Tierra del Fuego is worth noting. It adds to the complexity of its surroundings. The snowy mountain ranges remind visitors how stunningly remote the archipelago is. Tierra del Fuego gives such a peaceful vibe, yet it’s equally abuzz with activity in the main island. The ports here are reminiscent of any local fishery or marketplace, but the backdrop of endless forestry and astounding greenery sets it apart from the rest. The calm waters of the Beagle Channel and the many uninhabited islands add to the mystery of Tierra del Fuego and also provides a home to some beautiful wildlife such as sea lions and penguins.
Sea Lions of the Beagle Channel.
The air in the capital city of Ushuaia is mixed with a briny breeze and local seafood flair. There isn’t anything about Ushuaia that won’t remind you of the water. The icy temperament of the archipelago is best when the sun shines just above the mountaintops. On the brightest day, you’ll find the skies reflected splendidly on the waters, and it’s absolutely beyond breathtaking. However, those sunny days are hard to come by as the region receives about 146 days of rain a year and another 100 days where it is overcast.
During the daytime, a hike along the shores of Ushuaia with Magellanic Cormorants will be time well spent. Depending on the time of the year, the banks may be ridden with snow as white as the mountaintops. As the sun begins to set behind the peaks of Tierra del Fuego, the lights that start to emerge from the homes and shops in Ushuaia will also start to reflect on the water. It’s a magical thing to witness—lights dance across the waves like fireflies in the night. By the time the sun has set completely, the afterglow that lingers usually casts an iridescent glow that yet again captures the ancient calm and splendor of this place.
Tierra del Fuego and the small town of Ushuaia are nothing short of magical. Ushuaia is precisely the type of place that holds time in the palm of its hand. The beauty of its simplicity is only rivaled by the spectacle of the natural, untouched world around it. There’s something to be said about the peaks of Tierra del Fuego that’s almost haunting and protective at the same time. If one ever finds the spirit of adventure in Tierra del Fuego and decides to trek atop the mountain ranges, he or she will once and for all be changed. Tierra del Fuego offers nothing less than the best sights the world has to offer. Anywhere you stand on this archipelago, whether on the shoreline of Ushuaia or top of the mountains, you can turn yourself around and find yourself surrounded by the most uncomplicated beauty ever to catch your breath.
A boardwalk at Tierra Del Fuego National Park.