Esquiar en Ushuaia
03 Jun
Patagonia, ushuaia

Everything You Need to Know to Ski in Ushuaia

From the End of the World rises Cerro Castor, the best place to ski in Ushuaia. Traveling to the southernmost city on the planet, putting on your ski gear, and hitting the slopes is one of those experiences you must do at least once in your life. Imagine mountains covered with the best snow, top-notch services, and many more activities to enjoy the magic of Patagonia.

It all starts by booking a plane ticket to Ushuaia. Once in the city, you rent a car to move freely and reach the Cerro Castor Ski Center. Nothing can stop you: you are about to live something that will be etched in your memory. Days of winter sports, impressive landscapes on the Big Island of Tierra del Fuego, and, of course, the best seafood gastronomy waiting for you at the end of each day.

At Rentennials s, we want you to enjoy your trip from the very first moment. We make things simple, like renting a car in Ushuaia and allowing you to go from place to place with great ease. But we also want you to discover the best of each destination. So, here is a complete guide to skiing in Ushuaia.

Pareja esquiando es Ushuaia

When Is the Best Time to Ski in Ushuaia

 The weather in Ushuaia guarantees snow throughout the winter season, something that happens in very few places in South America. The climate is so good for skiing that many foreign tourists choose the winter at the End of the World due to its unique characteristics.

Next, we’ll tell you much more!

When Does the Snow Season Start

The ski season in Ushuaia begins in June and lasts until early October. Yes, it extends well into spring and is one of the ski resorts with the greatest number of open days.

During these months, temperatures range between -5°C and 5°C. Although it is cold, these conditions guarantee excellent quality powder snow, ideal for ski and snowboard lovers.

Choosing to Ski in Ushuaia in Low or High Season

As in most ski resorts in Argentina, Cerro Castor divides the season into two: low and high. It is very important to know which to choose to better organize your trip.

Which months correspond to each?

  • Low season: from June 27 to July 4 and from September 20 to September 28.
  • High season: from July 5 to September 19.

Of course, during high season you will find more people and higher prices. If you can, we recommend you go during the low season days to enjoy a more relaxed stay.

What Is the Weather Like in Ushuaia?

Frequent snowfalls, dry cold, and sometimes a bit of wind. We are talking about the End of the World, and like all of Patagonia, winter is quite unique here. These weather conditions keep the slopes in optimal conditions and allow you to live a rare adventure.

The best thing is to dress in layers and be ready if the weather changes suddenly. In case something happens, the city has many planned activities that complement the experience of skiing in Ushuaia.

Where to Ski in Ushuaia

Unlike other places in the country, Ushuaia has only one ski resort: Cerro Castor. It is a bit far from the city, but the short trip is definitely worth it. As you advance, the snow decorates the beautiful mountain range with stunning panoramas.

Once you arrive, all that’s left is to do what you came for: live the End of the World to the fullest.

Hombre esquiando en el Cerro Castor

Cerro Castor, the Southernmost Ski Resort in the World

Located 25 km from the city, the Cerro Castor Ski Center is one of the most famous in Argentina and the world. Not only because it is located at the edge of the earth but also because its infrastructure is on par with the most modern ski resorts in Europe and the United States. And one detail few places have: safe and quality snow throughout the season.

The Slopes of Cerro Castor

With nearly 30 slopes to ski on, Cerro Castor offers a wide range of alternatives for all skiers and snowboard enthusiasts. In addition, it has 13 ski lifts to quickly take you to the slope you want.

If you are just starting skiing or snowboarding, we recommend going to the beginner area to take some lessons and then try the easy slopes. If you already have some basic skills, the intermediate slopes are for you. For the most experienced, the difficult ones are the best option.

One tip: there is a Snowpark ideal for those who like to jump with their snowboard thanks to the hills that form during summer and get covered in snow during winter. You will even find an area for those just starting.

Here you can see the Cerro Castor slope map.

You can also check the status of the slopes and ski lifts.

Ski Passes

At Cerro Castor, like most ski resorts in Argentina, the season is divided into low and high, so prices vary.

Here are the prices so you get an idea of the cost of a ski day pass. Keep in mind that the more days you ski in Ushuaia, the cheaper the daily passes are.

High season:

  • Adults: 110 USD
  • Minors: 80 USD

Low season:

  • Adults: 80 USD
  • Minors: 55 USD

A key tip: on the official Castor website, you can buy passes in advance with a discount.

Snowboard en Ushuaia

Can I Do Other Activities at Cerro Castor?

Yes! The Cerro Castor Ski Center offers activities for the whole family. Whether you don’t know or don’t want to ski, or you’re looking for something to do with the kids, here you will find the perfect plan.

One option is ice skating on the outdoor rink. It’s suitable for all ages and ideal for the little ones.

Another way to enjoy the snow is cross-country skiing. The great thing about this activity is that it’s for everyone and requires no prior experience. It can even be a good start to enter this snow sport.

Also, you can simply buy a pedestrian pass and enjoy the snow differently.

Where to Rent Ski Equipment in Ushuaia?

If you don’t bring your own equipment, don’t worry. At the base of Cerro Castor, there are several rental places where you can rent everything you need: skis, poles, snowboards, boots, helmets, and goggles.

  • Rental Morada is the largest and most complete at the Cerro.
  • Rental Base is the oldest at the Cerro. Here you find ski and snowboard equipment.
  • Rental Alpino offers options for renting cross-country ski and skating equipment.

The good thing is that to avoid problems finding equipment, you can reserve online.

Another option, and cheaper, is to rent in the city and bring the equipment in your car.

Here you can see the prices for ski and snowboard equipment. Keep in mind that the more days you rent, the cheaper the daily price

El paisaje increíble de Tierra del Fuego

Where Is It Best to Stay to Ski in Ushuaia?

The city of Ushuaia is where you need to stay. Cerro Castor has no accommodations, so you have to sleep in the provincial capital.

The good news is that you have options for all tastes and budgets: from simple cabins, Airbnb apartments, boutique hotels to 5-star hotels. You just have to choose the one that best suits your needs and book in advance.

Here are five of our favorites:

How to Get to Cerro Castor from Ushuaia?

It’s very easy: you rent a car and drive about 25 km on National Route 3 from downtown Ushuaia. In winter, there may be ice or snow on the road, so it’s important to go slow and without rushing.

A tip: during high season leave early to avoid traffic.

Ruta Nacional 3 hacia el Cerro Castor

Desde Ushuaia hasta Tolhuin

How Much Does It Cost to Ski in Ushuaia?

If you go for a week to ski in Ushuaia, considering passes, equipment, accommodation (plus the plane ticket), the total cost is about 2000 USD per person. Of course, this price can be higher depending on accommodations and meals.

If you want to reduce the cost, a good option is to rent an apartment or cabin in the city.

Tips for Driving on Snow or Ice

In Ushuaia, you might have to drive on a thin layer of snow or ice. The snowplow works frequently, but snowfalls tend to be intense and daily.

For those not used to driving in these conditions, here are some tips for a peaceful vacation:

  • The vehicle must always have snow chains available to put on if necessary.
  • Maintain a low and steady speed. It is important to avoid sudden maneuvers that could cause you to lose control of the car.
  • Increase the braking distance from other vehicles, as ice reduces traction.
  • Use low beam headlights throughout the trip, even during the day. Being seen is as important as seeing others.
  • Make sure to have a shovel, gloves, and extra warm clothes in case you need to stop or get stranded.

And one last tip: if authorities or neighbors say the weather will worsen, the best is to stay in the city and enjoy the delights of Patagonian cuisine.

Rent a Car and Enjoy Skiing in Ushuaia

The End of the World is one of the destinations you can’t miss on your next trips. And if skiing or snowboarding is what you want, then Ushuaia is the place waiting for you. The infrastructure, gastronomy, and top-level service let you live a complete experience. And you can always change it up with a tour of the must-sees in Tierra del Fuego.

To live it all to the fullest, renting a car in Ushuaia is the first step. The second is choosing Rentennials, an easy, simple, and affordable way to have the car you need to ski with peace of mind.

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Lagos de Tierra del Fuego
19 Dec
ushuaia

5 tips for touring Ushuaia by car and discovering the B side of the Island

Discover Tierra del Fuego by touring the island by car from Ushuaia and live a unique experience. Connect lakes, forests, steppe and sea by driving less than 200 kilometers.

Traveling to Ushuaia can be much more than sailing through the Beagle Channel, walking through the Tierra del Fuego National Park or walking the trail to the beautiful Esmeralda lagoon. It is true that many travelers choose to visit the must-sees of Ushuaia in a few days, but only some dare to go beyond the provincial capital. Driving from Ushuaia you will find an island waiting to be discovered, with lakes, forests and the most deserted and southern beaches in Argentina.

The best way to get to know the end of the world is to rent a car in Ushuaia and, from there, begin the adventure around the Island. First, spend a few days in the places near the provincial capital. Once you have enjoyed Ushuaia and its surroundings, it is time to embark on the adventure. Take the beautiful National Route 3 to Tolhuin and, if you dare, continue towards the beaches of the southern Argentine Sea.

At Rentennials we give you five tips to make your trip to Ushuaia an unforgettable experience.

Lakes of Tierra del Fuego

Lakes of Tierra del Fuego


1. Rent a car in Ushuaia and start the trip

It all starts by renting a car as soon as you arrive at the Malvinas Argentinas airport. Having the freedom to drive and explore at your own pace will allow you to live a unique experience on your trip to the end of the world. Although some sites can be explored on foot, for others it is ideal to have a car.


Tierra del Fuego National Park

Tierra del Fuego National Park is the southernmost protected area in Argentina. Here, the Andes Mountains meet the sea, making the landscape unique in the country.

The ideal is to visit it in a day. There are eight trails that are short and of an easy difficulty to share with the whole family. If you are a fan of something more demanding, then choose one of the five longer and more complex trails. To find out more, click on this link.

To get to Tierra del Fuego National Park, you have to take National Route 3. It is only 12 kilometers, although the last part is gravel. At the end of the route, an incredible viewpoint awaits you with views of Lapataia Bay.

Lapataia Bay Viewpoint

Lapataia Bay Viewpoint / Photo by @visitargentina


The End of the World Train

Getting on the old Fuegian Southern Railway is a journey into the history of the end of the world. During the journey, the train crosses inaccessible areas of the National Park, crossing forests and bridges. More than a century ago, this same train transported prisoners from the old penitentiary to carry out tree felling work.

The train departs 7 km from Ushuaia and arrives at Tierra del Fuego National Park. It is important to note that the journey ends at the main station, so you will not be able to continue exploring the park from there.

There are three daily departures: 9:30, 12:00 and 15:00. The round trip time is 1 hour 50 minutes. It is open all year round and you can book tickets at this link.


Beagle Channel

One of the most unforgettable experiences is sailing through the mythical Beagle Channel. On a catamaran you will travel to islands that are full of marine fauna: sea lions, birds and penguins. In the warmer months you can disembark on one of the islands. And, of course, you will find the famous Les Éclaireurs lighthouse.

To take the excursion you have to go to the Port of Ushuaia. It is best to book in advance.

Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse

Les Éclaireurs Lighthouse

Get to know the city of Ushuaia and its history

Ushuaia is a city full of history, from the native peoples to the first pioneers who dared to inhabit these inhospitable lands. After enjoying an excursion, you can visit several museums that will allow you to learn more about its fascinating past.

The old Ushuaia penitentiary is one of the most symbolic places in the region. Touring its cells and meeting the characters who inhabited them becomes a strange experience. Currently, there are several museums in the building and you can visit it every day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.


Where and what to eat in Ushuaia

Patagonian cuisine makes its presence felt. Don’t forget to try the Patagonian lamb, seafood dishes and the famous king crab. And always accompanied by a good Argentine wine.

Ushuaia has restaurants of diverse categories, here we only leave you three proposals. In season we recommend you make a reservation or go early.

  • Ramos Generales El Almacén. Av. Maipú 749
  • Kaupé. Pres. Julio Argentino Roca 470.
  • Kalma. Gdor. Manuel Fernández Valdez 293

After dinner, Jeremy Button Gintonería is the ideal place for a drink.


2. Arrive at Puerto Almanza and enjoy unique cuisine

It is best to spend a full day in this small fishing village to taste some typical dish from the Patagonian sea. Continuing a little further, you will reach one of the historic estancias in the area.

Puerto Almanza

This fishing settlement is just 70 km from Ushuaia. There are some trails to explore, but what you really can’t miss is trying the dishes prepared on the spot in the town’s restaurants. The gastronomic offerings are unforgettable, especially those focused on the king crab, a crustacean that lives on the seabed of these cold waters.

Some of the places to eat in Puerto Almanza are:

Puerto Almanza

Puerto Almanza / Photo by @visitargentina


Estancia Harberton

This is an estancia founded in 1886 by the Anglican missionary Thomas Bridges, the first white man who decided to inhabit these lands. A place that combines the steppe with the Patagonian sea.

Today, it offers many activities for the whole family, such as guided tours of the buildings of the estancia. In addition, it has the Acawaia restaurant, an ideal place to taste Patagonian food, and it also offers accommodation. For more information, go to this link.


How to get to Puerto Almanza and the Harberton Estancia

To get to Puerto Almanza from Ushuaia, take National Route 3 until the intersection with Route J. From there, continue for about 30 km.

To get to the Harberton Estancia, continue 3 km on the same road.


3. Drive from Ushuaia to Tolhuin

After seeing the best of Ushuaia, embark on a road trip to the end of the world. This tour along National Route 3 will take you to the small town of Tolhuin. During the journey, you will enjoy incredible landscapes, such as the imposing Monte Olivia.

National Route 3

National Route 3

Esmeralda Lagoon and Turquesa Lagoon Trails

Leaving by National Route 3, about 15 km from Ushuaia, is the Valle de Tierra Mayor Natural and Landscape Reserve. In summer, it is famous for the trails that lead to Esmeralda Lagoon and Turquesa Lagoon. While in winter it has Castor Hill, the favorite for snow sports.

The trail to Esmeralda Lagoon takes you to a body of water surrounded by streams, mountains and forests. Of medium difficulty, it is 9 km long (round trip) that takes about 5 hours.

The trail to Turquesa Lagoon is of medium difficulty, with sections where the slope is steep. Once at the top, you will be able to see the Alvear mountain range and Esmeralda Lagoon. It is 3 km long (round trip), and takes about 3 hours.

Emerald Lagoon

Emerald Lagoon

A unique scenic route in Argentina

The Fuegian National Route 3 is one of the most beautiful roads in Argentina. In just a few kilometers, it connects the Andes Mountains, the Patagonian forests until reaching the steppe and the Patagonian sea.

The Garibaldi Pass is the perfect place to stop and contemplate the landscape. From the viewpoint, you can enjoy the views of Lake Fagnano and Escondido.


4. What to visit in Tolhuin

Staying in Ushuaia is the option that most people choose. But there is another possibility. Staying a few nights in the provincial capital and then going to Tolhuin to stay a few more days. It is cheaper with hotels and cabins of different categories.

From Tolhuin there are many activities to do in little-known and dazzling places.


Corazón de la Isla Provincial Reserve

It is a reserve that has more than 100 thousand hectares, with forest and peatlands that are sought to be protected. The best way to get there is to go to the lakes Chepelmuth, Yehuin and Yakush. There is the possibility of kayaking and sport fishing in some of them.

You can get to the Yehuin and Chepelmut lakes by car, while to get to the Yakush lake you have to walk 4 km round trip. For more information, click on this link.

To get there, you have to leave Tolhuin and continue along RN 3 for about 12 km. From there, you have to take Provincial Route 18 and drive 50 km on gravel. There is a park ranger post where visitors have to register.


Lake Fagnano

Tolhuin is on the coast of Lake Fagnano, the largest on the island. It is surrounded by mountains and forests. There are many ways to explore it, either on trails or short 4×4 tours. It is recommended to sleep very close to the lake to enjoy incredible views.


Drive to Cabo San Pablo

This is perhaps the most unknown place on the island. A gravel road through the Patagonian steppe that takes you to one of the most solitary and southern beaches in Argentina. Along the way you can find guanacos and foxes.

Once you arrive and park your car, there is a short walk to the top of the cape, where you will find a viewing point with views of a dazzling sea. On the beach you will find the Desdemona ship, wrecked in 1985.

From Tolhuin it is 80 km. You have to drive 35 km on National Route 3 until the intersection with the complementary route “A”. From there, it is about 40 km of gravel in good condition. There is a ranch and a campsite if you choose to sleep in the area.

Cabo San Pablo

Cabo San Pablo / Photo by @visitargentina

5. Travel to Ushuaia at the best time

Tierra del Fuego is beautiful all year round, but depending on what you want to do, there are more advisable months to visit the island.

The best time to visit Ushuaia is from October to April. The weather is more pleasant, there is less rain or snow, and you can enjoy the outdoors.

In winter, activities are limited to snow sports and some authorized excursions. Tours of the Park or Reserves are possible, but you must always take into account the level of snow. Remember that if you travel in winter, you will have to drive with special snow chains.


Recommended number of days to visit Ushuaia

A complete visit to Tierra del Fuego Island should last at least 10 days. On a quicker trip of about four days, you can visit the classic places. If you want to go beyond Ushuaia in this time, you will have to hurry up.


Prepare your travel itinerary in Ushuaia

To travel around Ushuaia by car and explore beyond the city, we recommend organizing your trip in advance. Book accommodations in advance, as it is a highly sought-after destination throughout the year. Also, choose a reliable and safe car rental company, such as Rentennials, to ensure an unforgettable experience at the end of the world.

[:es]

We are Rentennials

Rentennials is the new way to rent cars from local hosts in your city, quickly, easily, and affordably. It's also your new path to starting your own car rental business and making money every month.
Discover more.

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Download our App

Share this

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