Lake Fagnano
Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego
The largest lake on Tierra del Fuego Island, Lake Fagnano (or Lake Cami stretches more than 62 miles (100 kilometers, all the way across the Chilean border. Flanked by virgin Patagonian forest and rolling steppe to the north and the steep peaks of the Fuegian Andes to south, it’s a thrilling introduction to Patagonia’s wild landscapes.
The basics
Most visitors opt to explore Lake Fagnano on a day trip from Ushuaia. Explore off-road in a 4WD and visit lakeside viewpoints, enjoy hiking around the lakeside, and look out for wildlife, including red foxes and beavers. The gateway to the lake is the town of Tolhuin, on the lake’s eastern shore, where you can enjoy a traditional Argentine lunch at one of the local restaurants or visit the famous Panadería La Unión bakery, where the walls are adorned with the photos of celebrities who have visited the area. Day tours often include other regional sites such as Lake Escondido, the scenic Garibaldi Pass, and Cerro Castor, one of Argentina’s most popular ski resorts.
Things to know before you go
- Adventurous travelers can enjoy outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, as well as boat cruises and fishing in the summer months.
- Tolhuin has basic accommodation options as well as a number of restaurants and cafés.
- The weather can change quickly in Patagonia so it’s worth packing warm clothing even in the summer.
How to get there
Lake Fagnano lies just north of Ushuaia, on Tierra del Fuego Island in southern Patagonia. The main access point is Tolhuin, a 62-mile (100-kilometer) drive from Ushuaia along Ruta Nacional 3. It’s most convenient to explore with your own transport or as part of a tour—you’ll need a 4WD to navigate the lakeside roads—but daily buses also run between Ushuaia and Tolhuin (a 1.75-hour journey).
When to get there
Lake Fagnano is accessible all year round but the best time to visit is during the summer (December to March). Hiring a guide or seeking local advice is a good idea if traveling in winter, when some roads and hiking trails are best avoided.
Day Trips from Ushuaia
Argentina’s southernmost city is the starting point for discovering the glacial landscapes of Patagonia. Spend a day exploring the Tierra del Fuego National Park, where you can take a ride on the legendary End of the World Train, admire views of Lapataia Bay and Lake Roca; or enjoy activities such as hiking, snowshoeing, or dog-sledding. Another must-do is a cruise along the Beagle Channel. Along the way, pass the landmark Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, visit the 19th-century ranch of Estancia Harberton, or spot wildlife at Seal Island or Martillo Island.
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