Trekking in Tierra del Fuego

Which hikes are best?

Wild, remote and quiet, trekking in Tierra del Fuego is unlike trekking in any other part of Patagonia as you won't see many people on the trails. Although Ushuaia and the National Park attract tourists, and many non-trekkers come to see penguins in the Beagle Channel, the surrounding Mountain Ranges and lakes further out are blissfully undiscovered, which makes getting out here on a trek a really exciting adventure.

Easy Day Hikes: If you're planning a day hike, a trip to the Martiel Mountain Range is a good place to go. Hike to Cerro Medio in order to look down over Ushuaia and the beautiful Beagle Channel.

Moderate Hiking Trips: If you want something enjoyable but not too challenging, spend 3 or so days in the valleys and mountains nearby Ushuaia, camping in the wilderness and looking out over the Beagle Channel. Longer treks including the Tierra del Fuego Crossing which see you trekking through Tierra Mayor Valley, up along the 5 Hermanos Pass, a very rewarding hike which, after being buffeted with wind and potentially trekking through snow, you'll have fantastic views at the top of the pass of snowy mountains all around you.

Challenging Treks: Looking for something even more wild? If you're experienced in the mountains then visit the Chilean part of Tierra del Fuego to trek through the 'Dientes de Navarino' range. This is considered one of the best treks in the world, crossing through four different mountain passes over just 33 miles. You'll enjoy hugely varied terrain and are unlikely to come across any other human beings; you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of Cape Horn and the Beagle Channel. 

However, it's important to bear in mind that the weather, including strong winds from Antarctica can make portions of this trek very dangerous. Thus, this trek is for the dedicated and extra adventurous and is much harder than, for example, the Paine Circuit. 

Which time of year should I visit?

It's best to visit Tierra del Fuego during Patagonian summer from October to March. Although Patagonia's weather is famously unpredictable, these are the months where you should get some sunshine, although there'll be wind and no doubt a few cloudy/rainy days too. Do bear in mind that December and January are peak season and usually busier times, when locals take their holidays and visit Ushuaia and the National Park.

To find out more about Tierra del Fuego, including hotel recommendations and getting there, visit our Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego page.