All Hiking Trails

Hiking Trails: Tierra del Fuego

At the 'End of the World,' Tierra del Fuego offers unparalleled hiking adventures amidst dramatic landscapes of snow-capped mountains, ancient forests, and rugged coastlines. Explore pristine national parks and discover a unique blend of Patagonian wilderness and sub-antarctic charm.

Updated for 2025–2026 Season8 min read
3 trailsBest Season: Summer (December to March) offers the most favorable weather conditions, longer daylight hours, and accessible trails. Shoulder seasons (November, April) can also be good, but with higher chances of snow or colder temperatures.
Full guide to Tierra del Fuego →

Overview

Hiking in Tierra del Fuego is an unforgettable journey into one of the planet's most southerly wildernesses. From easy coastal strolls to challenging alpine ascents, the trails cater to all levels, primarily concentrated around Ushuaia and within Tierra del Fuego National Park. Be prepared for unpredictable weather, stunning panoramic views, and encounters with unique Patagonian wildlife.

Tierra del Fuego offers a diverse range of hiking difficulties. Many popular trails are moderate, featuring varied terrain including muddy bogs and ascents through forests. Challenging mountain treks require good physical fitness and experience with unpredictable alpine conditions. Easy walks are available, particularly along coastal areas within the national park.

Trails

Laguna Esmeralda Trail

moderateout-and-back

Distance

9.5 km

Elevation Gain

+250m

Duration

4-5 hours

Type

out-and-back

This incredibly popular trail leads to the breathtaking turquoise waters of Laguna Esmeralda, nestled in a glacial valley. The path winds through beaver-damaged forests, boggy terrain, and open landscapes, culminating in spectacular views of the lagoon and surrounding peaks.

Highlights

Vibrant emerald-colored lagoonViews of Ojo del Albino glacierBeaver dams and unique ecosystemLenga forests

Waypoints

1

Trailhead start

0 km from start · +0m · 0 hours

The official starting point of the trail, marked with signage.

2

Beaver Dam Area

2 km from start · +50m · 45 min

Pass through areas heavily impacted by beavers, showcasing their impressive dams and felled trees.

3

Boggy Section

3.5 km from start · +80m · 1h 30min

Navigate a section of muddy and boggy terrain, requiring careful footing. Waterproof boots are essential here.

4

Forest Exit

4.2 km from start · +150m · 2h 0min

Emerge from the dense forest into a more open valley, with views starting to open up towards the peaks.

5

Laguna Esmeralda viewpoint

4.75 km from start · +250m · 2h 30min

Arrive at the stunning Laguna Esmeralda, a perfect spot for lunch and photographs, with the Ojo del Albino glacier in the background.

Gear Recommendations:
  • • Waterproof hiking boots
  • • Layered clothing (thermal base, fleece, waterproof shell)
  • • Waterproof pants
  • • Hat and gloves
  • • Plenty of water and snacks
  • • Sunscreen and sunglasses
  • • Trekking poles (helpful for boggy sections)
  • • Gaiters (highly recommended for mud)

Permit Required: No

Trailhead Access: Located approximately 18 km from Ushuaia along National Route 3. A car is highly recommended for access, as public transport options (remises/taxis, shared vans) can be costly or infrequent. The road is paved and well-maintained.

Water Availability: Natural streams are present, but filtration is highly recommended due to beaver activity and potential contaminants.

Camping Options: No official camping at Laguna Esmeralda. Wild camping is generally discouraged and regulated. Most hikers return to Ushuaia.

Best Months: November, December, January, February, March, April

Martial Glacier Trail

moderateout-and-back

Distance

6 km

Elevation Gain

+400m

Duration

3-4 hours

Type

out-and-back

Ascend towards the Martial Glacier, offering panoramic views of Ushuaia, the Beagle Channel, and surrounding mountains. The trail passes through sub-antarctic forest before reaching a barren, rocky terrain near the glacier's remnants. An optional chairlift covers the lower section.

Highlights

Stunning panoramic views of Ushuaia and Beagle ChannelViews of the Martial Glacier (remnants)Walk through Lenga and Ñire forestsCafeteria and amenities at the base

Waypoints

1

Base of Chairlift

0 km from start · +0m · 0 hours

Starting point near the old chairlift station and a small cafe. Hikers can choose to walk up or take the chairlift for the initial ascent.

2

Upper Chairlift Station

1.5 km from start · +150m · 45 min

If walking, this marks the end of the initial forested climb. If taking the chairlift, this is where you start hiking. Views of Ushuaia begin to open.

3

Martial Glacier Viewpoint

2.5 km from start · +250m · 1h 30min

A flat area with excellent views of the glacier and a good spot for a break before the final push.

4

Glacier Base

3 km from start · +400m · 2h 0min

Reach the rocky area at the base of the Martial Glacier. Depending on conditions, you may see remnants of the glacier and small streams.

Gear Recommendations:
  • • Sturdy hiking boots (waterproof preferred)
  • • Layered clothing (wind and waterproof outer shell essential)
  • • Hat, gloves, and neck gaiter
  • • Water and snacks
  • • Sunscreen and sunglasses (even on cloudy days)
  • • Trekking poles (helpful for descent on loose scree)

Permit Required: No

Trailhead Access: The trailhead is located just outside Ushuaia, accessible by taxi, remis, or a strenuous uphill walk from the city center (approx. 7 km). A car is convenient but not strictly necessary as transport is readily available.

Water Availability: Streams flow from the glacier, but filtration is recommended. Water is available at the base cafeteria.

Camping Options: No camping allowed on the trail. Return to Ushuaia.

Best Months: November, December, January, February, March, April

Cerro Guanaco (Tierra del Fuego National Park)

hardout-and-backPermit Required

Distance

12 km

Elevation Gain

+950m

Duration

6-8 hours

Type

out-and-back

A challenging but highly rewarding ascent to the summit of Cerro Guanaco, offering unparalleled 360-degree views of Tierra del Fuego National Park, the Beagle Channel, and surrounding Chilean islands. The trail involves steep climbs, boggy sections, and rocky scrambles.

Highlights

360-degree panoramic views from the summitViews of the Beagle Channel and Chilean islandsDiverse ecosystems: forest, peat bog, alpine tundraRemote wilderness experience

Waypoints

1

Alakush Visitor Center (Trailhead)

0 km from start · +0m · 0 hours

Starting point within Tierra del Fuego National Park. Ensure you have paid the park entrance fee.

2

Forest Ascent Begins

1 km from start · +200m · 45 min

The initial steep climb through dense sub-antarctic forest, often muddy.

3

Upper Forest Boundary

3 km from start · +500m · 2h 30min

Emerging from the treeline into more open, boggy terrain. Views begin to expand.

4

Rocky Ridge

4.5 km from start · +750m · 4h 0min

A challenging section traversing a rocky ridge, sometimes exposed to strong winds. Requires careful footing.

5

Cerro Guanaco Summit

6 km from start · +950m · 5h 0min

Reach the highest point, rewarded with breathtaking views in all directions. A beacon marks the true summit.

Gear Recommendations:
  • • Sturdy waterproof hiking boots (ankle support is crucial)
  • • Warm, windproof, and waterproof layered clothing
  • • Hat, gloves, and scarf/neck gaiter
  • • Ample water (at least 2 liters per person) and high-energy snacks
  • • Trekking poles (highly recommended for stability and boggy sections)
  • • Map and compass/GPS (weather can change rapidly)
  • • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm

Permit Required: Yes — A national park entrance fee is required to access the trailhead. No separate hiking permit is needed for Cerro Guanaco itself, but hikers are often encouraged to register their hike at the visitor center.

Trailhead Access: The trailhead is located within Tierra del Fuego National Park, near the Alakush Visitor Center (Ruta 3, Km 3065). Access requires an entrance fee to the national park. A car is the most flexible option. Shared vans (colectivos) also run from Ushuaia to the park entrance.

Water Availability: Some small streams are available, but depend on recent rainfall and snowmelt. Filtration is essential. Carry sufficient water.

Camping Options: Wild camping is not permitted on this trail. Designated campgrounds exist within the National Park (e.g., Lago Roca), but not directly on this route.

Best Months: December, January, February, March

Drive to the Trailhead

Browse Car Rentals

Safety Tips

  • 1Always check weather forecasts before heading out; conditions can change rapidly and dramatically.
  • 2Dress in layers, including waterproof and windproof outerwear, even on sunny days.
  • 3Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.
  • 4Carry a map, compass or GPS, and know how to use them.
  • 5Bring sufficient water, high-energy snacks, and a headlamp.
  • 6Stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems and for your own safety.
  • 7Be aware of wildlife, especially beavers and local birds, and maintain a respectful distance.
  • 8Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace principles).
  • 9Many trails involve boggy sections; waterproof boots and gaiters are highly recommended.

Emergency Contacts

Rescue Service

103 (Emergency Services)

Park Rangers

+54 2901 421316 (Tierra del Fuego National Park Ranger Station)

Nearest Hospital

+54 2901 441000 (Hospital Regional Ushuaia Dr. Leonardo Guzmán)

Before you hit the trail: Tierra del Fuego

🌤️Weather Guide✈️How to Get There🚗Car Rental⛺Camping Guide📍Destination Guide
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to hike in Tierra del Fuego?

The best time for hiking is during the Patagonian summer, from December to March. This period offers the warmest temperatures, longest daylight hours, and least amount of snow, making most trails accessible.

Do I need a permit to hike in Tierra del Fuego?

Most individual trails do not require specific hiking permits. However, to access trails within Tierra del Fuego National Park (like Cerro Guanaco or Senda Costera), you will need to pay the park entrance fee. No advanced booking is typically required for day hikes.

What kind of clothing should I bring for hiking?

Layered clothing is essential due to the unpredictable Patagonian weather. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layers (fleece), and a waterproof and windproof outer shell. Sturdy waterproof hiking boots, hat, gloves, and sunglasses are also crucial.

Is it necessary to rent a car to access trailheads?

While some popular trailheads (like Martial Glacier) are accessible by taxi or shared van, renting a car offers the most flexibility and convenience, especially for trails further from Ushuaia or within Tierra del Fuego National Park. Road conditions are generally good for main access points.

Are there any dangerous animals I should be aware of?

Tierra del Fuego does not have large dangerous predators. The most notable wildlife you might encounter are beavers (which can alter trails), various birds, and occasionally guanacos. It's always best to observe wildlife from a respectful distance.

Can I drink water from streams on the trails?

While many streams are fed by glacial melt, it's highly recommended to filter or treat any water collected from natural sources due to potential contamination from wildlife (like beavers) or human activity upstream.

What is the 'End of the World' exactly?

Ushuaia, the capital of Tierra del Fuego, is famously known as the 'City at the End of the World' due to its status as the southernmost city in the world. This moniker reflects its unique geographic location at the tip of South America, gateway to Antarctica, and surrounded by dramatic landscapes.

Tierra del Fuego

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