7-Day Ushuaia & End of the World Road Trip

Upon arrival at Presidente Carlos Ibáñez del Campo International Airport (PUQ) in Punta Arenas, pick up your rental SUV. We recommend booking in advance, ensuring your rental company provides cross-border authorization for Argentina. Spend the afternoon exploring Punta Arenas, Chile's southernmost mainland city. Visit the historic Plaza Muñoz Gamero, climb Cerro de la Cruz for panoramic views of the city and the Strait of Magellan, and explore the Nao Victoria Museum, featuring a replica of Magellan's ship. Stock up on any last-minute supplies or groceries for the journey ahead.

Today is a significant driving day as you begin your journey across the Strait of Magellan and into Argentina. Drive north from Punta Arenas on Ruta 9 towards the Primera Angostura ferry crossing. The ferry operates frequently but check schedules in advance, especially during peak season. After a short ferry ride, continue driving through Tierra del Fuego, crossing the Chilean-Argentine border at San Sebastián. Be prepared for immigration and customs procedures, which can take some time. Once in Argentina, continue south on RN 3 to Rio Grande, a rugged industrial city. Refuel in Punta Delgada before the ferry, and again immediately after crossing into Argentina, as fuel stations can be sparse.

Continue your southward journey on Argentina's iconic Ruta Nacional 3 towards Ushuaia. The landscape transforms from flat, windswept plains to a more mountainous terrain as you approach the Beagle Channel. You'll pass through several small towns and enjoy stunning views of the Andean foothills, including Garibaldi Pass, offering a panoramic vista of Lake Fagnano (Lago Khami) and Lake Escondido. Take your time for photo stops. Upon arrival in Ushuaia, check into your accommodation and take an initial stroll along the waterfront to soak in the atmosphere of the 'End of the World'.

Dedicate your day to exploring the natural wonders surrounding Ushuaia. Start with Tierra del Fuego National Park, accessible by car just a short drive from the city. Hike along picturesque trails, visit Lapataia Bay (the official end of the Pan-American Highway), and take in the pristine sub-Antarctic forests and coastal views. In the afternoon, embark on a memorable Beagle Channel cruise. These excursions typically visit Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, sea lion and cormorant colonies, and offer breathtaking views of Ushuaia and the surrounding mountains from the water. Book your cruise in advance, especially during peak season.

Spend another full day immersing yourself in Ushuaia's unique attractions. Take a scenic drive up to Martial Glacier, where you can enjoy a short hike or take a chairlift for stunning panoramic views of Ushuaia, the Beagle Channel, and the surrounding mountain ranges. The glacier offers various trails for different fitness levels. In the afternoon, explore the city's charming downtown, visit the Maritime Museum (housed in the former prison), or wander through local shops for souvenirs. Consider dining on king crab, a regional specialty, for dinner.

Begin your journey back north. Retrace your steps on Ruta 3, enjoying the views you might have missed on the way down. You'll drive back through Rio Grande and make your way to the San Sebastián border crossing to re-enter Chile. Remember to complete all necessary exit and entry procedures. Once back in Chile, continue north towards the Segunda Angostura ferry at Punta Delgada, aiming to spend the night in Cerro Sombrero, a small but charming oil town in Chilean Tierra del Fuego. Refuel in Rio Grande before crossing the border, and again at Cerro Sombrero.

On your final day, take an early start from Cerro Sombrero and drive to the Primera Angostura ferry terminal at Punta Delgada. Enjoy another scenic ferry ride across the Strait of Magellan. Once back on mainland Chile, it's a straightforward drive south on Ruta 9 back to Punta Arenas. Allow ample time to return your rental car at the airport or designated city drop-off point before heading to the airport for your onward flight. Reflect on the incredible landscapes and unique experiences of your 'End of the World' road trip.