Extreme Adventure in Ushuaia: Trekking and Helicopter Expedition
Enjoy great extreme activities in Ushuaia
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Best Season | Shoulder Season | Low Season | Not Available
A great 3-night program with some extreme adventure activities!
One of the most rewarding adventures in Ushuaia is the trek to Turquoise Lagoon and Mount Carbajal. The hike begins in the valleys outside the city, where you climb steadily through lush lenga forests and into the heart of Patagonia’s wild landscapes. After about an hour of effort, you reach the serene Turquoise Lagoon, a glacial lake famous for its strikingly clear, blue-green waters. It’s the perfect place to pause and take in the untouched beauty that surrounds you. From there, the trail continues up along a rocky ridge toward the summit of Mount Carbajal. The ascent is more demanding, but the reward is breathtaking: sweeping views over valleys carved by glaciers, the shimmering lagoon below, and endless Andean peaks stretching into the distance. This trek usually lasts around seven hours, covering roughly eight to nine kilometers, and is considered moderate to challenging. Proper hiking gear, waterproof boots, and a good fitness level are essential, but for those who enjoy off-the-beaten-path exploration, the sense of accomplishment and connection with nature is unforgettable.
For a completely different perspective of Ushuaia, the Helicopter Ride to the Heart of the Andes Mountains offers an exhilarating aerial journey. Taking off from the city, the flight takes you over Ushuaia Bay and deep into the surrounding valleys, including Carbajal and Olivia, with spectacular views of glaciers, forests, and shimmering lagoons like Laguna Esmeralda. The highlight of this experience is the landing on a remote Andean ridge, where you can step out, breathe the crisp mountain air, and enjoy a toast surrounded by some of the most dramatic scenery on earth. The entire tour lasts about 45 minutes, with approximately 30 minutes of flying time, and includes hotel transfers for convenience. It’s an intimate and exclusive experience, led by expert pilots, and highly rated by travelers who describe it as one of the most unforgettable moments of their Patagonian journey.
Together, these two excursions strike the perfect balance between immersion and spectacle. The trek to Turquoise Lagoon and Mount Carbajal lets you physically engage with Patagonia’s rugged wilderness, testing your endurance and rewarding you with majestic views. The helicopter ride, on the other hand, offers a privileged bird’s-eye view of the same landscapes, allowing you to appreciate the sheer scale and beauty of the southern Andes in just a short time. Experiencing both will give you the fullest sense of Ushuaia—on foot, step by step through its pristine valleys, and from above, soaring over its wild and awe-inspiring terrain.
OUR RECOMMENDATION
When I think of the most memorable adventures in Ushuaia, two experiences immediately come to mind: trekking to Turquoise Lagoon and Mount Carbajal, and taking a helicopter ride into the heart of the Andes Mountains. Both are completely different, yet together they capture the essence of Patagonia in the most unforgettable way.
I’ll never forget the day I hiked up to Turquoise Lagoon. The trail starts in the valleys just outside Ushuaia, winding through beautiful lenga forests before opening into wide glacial landscapes. After about an hour of steady climbing, I reached the lagoon itself—a breathtaking mirror of turquoise water, surrounded by dramatic peaks and untouched wilderness. From there, I continued the ascent toward Mount Carbajal, and while the path became steeper and more challenging, the views from the top were simply spectacular. Looking down over the lagoon, the valleys, and the glacier-shaped ridges, I felt an incredible connection to this remote corner of the world. It’s a trek that requires some effort, but the sense of reward is truly beyond words.
On another day, I decided to see Ushuaia from a completely different perspective—by helicopter. From the moment we lifted off, the scenery was unbelievable. Flying over Ushuaia Bay, the Olivia and Carbajal valleys, and even spotting Laguna Esmeralda from above gave me a whole new appreciation of the scale of this region. The highlight was landing on a remote Andean ridge. Stepping out onto that mountaintop, with nothing but peaks, glaciers, and silence all around, was one of the most magical moments I’ve ever experienced. Sharing a toast up there in the middle of the Andes felt like something out of a dream.
What I love most is how these two activities complement each other. The trek allows you to feel Patagonia under your feet—mud, rocks, forest, and fresh mountain air—while the helicopter ride lifts you above it all, giving you a bird’s-eye view of its raw immensity. Together, they offer the perfect balance of adventure and wonder, and I can wholeheartedly recommend both to anyone visiting Ushuaia.
RAMIRO RODRIGUEZ
Sales & Marketing Manager at MiniTrekking.com & RipioTurismo
ITINERARY
Extreme adventue in Ushuaia: Trekking to Carbajal Mount and Helicopter Expedition
DAY 1 - Ushuaia
Arrive to Ushuaia
Arrive at Ushuaia International Airport, the gateway to the “End of the World.” Ushuaia, the southernmost city on the planet, is framed by the Martial Mountains and the Beagle Channel, offering a spectacular blend of peaks, glaciers, and forests.
Check in and free time to enjoy some good activities
Optional Excursions & Tours:
DAY 2 - Ushuaia
Trekking to Carbajal Mount and Turquoise Lagoon
After breakfast, we will enjoy a wonderful trekking activity
This trek to Turquoise Lagoon and Mount Carbajal takes you deep into one of Tierra del Fuego’s most stunning and untouched regions. The adventure begins at our office on Roca 136, followed by a short transfer to the Tierra Mayor Valley. From there, we embark on a demanding hike toward the brilliant turquoise waters of a glacial lagoon tucked into the Sierra Sorondo. We’ll pause here to relax and take in the peaceful beauty of this hidden gem.
The initial stretch of the trail involves a steep ascent through ancient subantarctic Fuegian forest. After 45 to 60 minutes of steady climbing, we emerge above the treeline to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. As we continue along the ridge, the vibrant lagoon comes into view. Our final destination is the summit of Mount Carbajal, where sweeping vistas reveal dramatic glacial landscapes shaped during the last Ice Age. From here, the view extends across the Tierra Mayor and Carbajal valleys and all the way to the Beagle Channel—an awe-inspiring payoff for a truly unforgettable hike.
Return to the hotel and overnight.
DAY 3 - Ushuaia
Helicopter Tour in Ushuaia: Explore the Heart of the Andes Mountains
A helicopter ride with a landing in the Andes offers an exhilarating experience in one of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes.
The journey begins with the excitement of ascending over the rugged terrain of Tierra del Fuego. From above, you’ll see vast forests, winding rivers, and snow-capped peaks stretching endlessly into the distance.
As you approach the towering Andes, the landscape reveals its full grandeur. The pilot skillfully navigates through the valleys, offering close-up views of dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and crystal-clear alpine lakes. At a carefully selected landing spot, the helicopter touches down, allowing you to step out and savor the crisp mountain air.
Surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Andes, you’ll have time to explore, snap photos, and fully appreciate the tranquility of this remote wilderness. Whether you’re capturing the scenery or simply enjoying the peace, the experience offers a rare opportunity to connect with nature.
After soaking in the majestic views, you’ll board the helicopter for the return flight. As you soar back over Ushuaia, the memories of this incredible adventure will stay with you.
DAY 4 - Ushuaia
Goodbye Ushuaia
Breakfast and transfer to the airport. Depending on your flight schedule, you may add an additional excursion before your departure.
Optional Excursions & Tours:
About Us
VisitUshuaia.com, a site by RipioTurismo, celebrates South America as the vibrant garden of our world, rich in colorful landscapes, cultural heritage, gastronomy, and warm hospitality. With +20 years of expertise, we craft custom trips across Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Paraguay. Our carefully selected hotels and local partners ensure the best service possible. We cater to FITs, groups, adventure seekers, and the 50+ age group with luxury tours.
GALLERY
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Transfers in/out airport to hotel
- 3 nights of accommodation with breakfast
- Activities as detailed in the itinerary
- Tips
- Meals not detailed in the itinerary
- Internal flights that can be quoted separately
FAQs
What is the best season to do this tour?
Definitely during spring and summer, ideal for outdoors activities. So, October to April period. And also during winter season if you´re looking for snow and winter activities. It´s June, July, August and even September as the winter season is long in Ushuaia
Can I add extra nights?
Yes, absolutely. Add an extra night and enjoy different activities available like trekkings, or any other interesting activity in Ushuaia
Can I see penguins during my trip to Ushuaia?
Well, check the penguin calendar first.
Penguin Season in Ushuaia:
Main Season: Penguins are present from October to April (spring and summer in the Southern Hemisphere). This is when Magellanic and Gentoo penguins come to Isla Martillo to nest and raise their chicks. During these months you can do either a walking tour on the island or a boat tour to see them.
Off-Season (May to September):
The Magellanic and Gentoo penguins migrate north once the cold, dark winter sets in. Tours to Isla Martillo do not operate because there are no large colonies to observe.
Can I enjoy snow in Ushuaia during my trip?
Well, check the following information:
Main snow season:
Runs from late June to early October
The peak is usually July and August, coinciding with Argentine winter school holidays. Snow can still be found in May/early June and sometimes in late October, but it’s less reliable.
Where you’ll find snow:
Cerro Castor – the southernmost ski resort in the world, about 26 km from Ushuaia. Open typically mid-June to early October depending on snowfall.
Valle de Tierra Mayor & Valle de Lobos – great for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, and snowmobiles.
Martial Glacier – accessible from the city, often with snow early and late in the season.
We have some tours and packages specially prepared for winter season. Check our vacation packages area
Can I add internal flights to my trip?
Yes, we can quote it for you. The price for internal flights are not included in our quotation, but can be added on request. Just check with your travel designer what´s the price for flights to Ushuaia.
Can I combine this tour with another destination in Patagonia?
Yes absolutely. You can combine Ushuaia with El Calafate, or Punta Arenas, Puerto Natales and Torres del Paine. Check with your travel designer, to quote a special program with Ushuaia and any other destination in Patagonia.
Are the entrance to national parks included in the package?
Yes, the entrance to National Parks are included in your program. Anyway, check with your travel designer if you prefer to pay the entrance fee on the spot on your own. It´s also possible.
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