End of the World Train Ushuaia
Ride a vintage steam train through Tierra del Fuego, reliving history from Ushuaia's penal colony days.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
End of the World Train Ushuaia
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride a vintage steam train through Tierra del Fuego, reliving history from Ushuaia's penal colony days.
"A charming journey back in time with fun reenactments and scenic Patagonian views."
Student Discount Available
:moneywithwings: Bring your student ID for a cheaper ticket price!
Audio Guide Check
:microphone: English audio guide can be spotty; check if it's working well before departure.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vintage Steam Train Journey
Ushuaia
Ride a historic narrow-gauge steam train through Tierra del Fuego National Park, reliving early 20th-century penal settlement history.
Prisoner Reenactments
Stopover Station
Engage with costumed actors portraying prisoners at a station stop, offering a fun and interactive glimpse into the past.
Scenic Tierra del Fuego Views
Along the train route
Enjoy picturesque landscapes of forests, rivers, and mountains as the train winds its way through the national park.
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Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peace of Mind
Dress for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Tips on Ushuaia?
Student Discount Available
:moneywithwings: Bring your student ID for a cheaper ticket price!
Audio Guide Check
:microphone: English audio guide can be spotty; check if it's working well before departure.
Ushuaia activities
Wear Good Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Paths can be icy, especially in winter. Prioritize grip and safety.
Window Seats are Best
:window: Try to snag a window seat for the best views of the park.
Tips
from all over the internet
Student Discount Available
:moneywithwings: Bring your student ID for a cheaper ticket price!
Audio Guide Check
:microphone: English audio guide can be spotty; check if it's working well before departure.
Wear Good Shoes
:athletic_shoe: Paths can be icy, especially in winter. Prioritize grip and safety.
Window Seats are Best
:window: Try to snag a window seat for the best views of the park.
No Toilets on Train
:toilet: Use facilities at the station before boarding; none available on the train.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the 'End of the World Train' a charming and historically significant experience, appreciating the vintage steam engines and the engaging prisoner reenactments. While some find the audio guide inconsistent and the price a bit high for the duration, the scenic route and the unique glimpse into Ushuaia's penal past make it a memorable activity for most.
"The history behind it is really interesting. The said all the cut trees were cut by the prisoners back then. They give you an earphone to hear the story inside the train, it has portuguese, english, spanish, italian, german…
Loved it!! You make a quick stop in another station where you can take pics with friendly and funny “prisoners”, so fun. You can go up and see a small waterfall too, only some stairs up. On the way there we saw three horses!! So nice."
Vanessa Morais
"The train history is somewhat interesting. The staffs and the management are friendly. However, the English audio guide is poor, on and off during the trip.
Expecting something at the end of the railway e.g. some landmarks, sign or anything but there is nothing but the toilet. If you are with a tour they will take you to the other sight seeing spots. If you are by your own you have to wait to board the train back to the station after they finished switching the locomotive. In my opinion, the price is expensive and not really worth it given the expereince"
Ariya Prongsirikul
"I took the train as part of a tour with Rumba Sur (who I highly recommend).
The main station is beautiful, comfortable, has good toilets, a gift shop, and food options. There is also a lot of history about the area and the prison/prisoners/train route throughout the building.
The secondary station is much smaller. It does have several covered seating areas and flushing toilets (fewer). I did not see any food options here.
The train makes one stop along the route where you can get out and see some beautiful scenery. The seats are a bit narrow, so if the train is full, it could be uncomfortable. Everyone is provided with a set of headphones for listening to the recorded narration along the route. The narration is available in multiple languages, and the first announcements before departure mention that people from all languages are on the train.
There are no toilets on the train, and I didn't see any at the stop (but I wasn't looking).
The train winds through very pretty areas from point A to point B. Window seating is best, though there are four seats to a row, so someone will be on the inside in both directions.
My biggest caution here is that during winter (today is June 19) the roads are icy if it rains. We had a morning drizzle that made the pathways a serious sheet of ice. There isn't much they can do about is, so just know that you need to wear good shoes and be careful with your steps.
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A Clarified Woman
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The 'End of the World Train' station is located within Tierra del Fuego National Park. You can reach it by taxi, rental car, or as part of an organized tour. Many visitors combine the train ride with a visit to the national park itself.
While there isn't direct public bus service to the train station, many tour operators in Ushuaia offer transportation as part of their packages, which can be a convenient option.
The journey from Ushuaia town to the train station typically takes about 20-30 minutes by car or taxi, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Yes, you can drive your own car to the station. There is parking available, though it can get busy during peak tourist seasons.
Some tour companies and hotels in Ushuaia may offer shuttle services. It's best to inquire with your accommodation or tour provider about available options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase tickets directly at the train station in Ushuaia, or book them online in advance through the official website or authorized tour operators. Booking ahead is recommended during peak season.
Ticket prices can vary, but expect to pay around $70-90 USD for a standard adult ticket. Student discounts are often available with a valid ID.
Yes, there are often different packages that might include park entrance fees or combine the train ride with other activities. Check with the ticket vendor for current offerings.
The train typically operates daily, with departures scheduled throughout the day. Hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check the official schedule for your travel dates.
While you can sometimes buy tickets on the day, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist season (December-February), to guarantee your spot.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The train journey itself lasts approximately 1.5 hours, covering a scenic route through Tierra del Fuego National Park.
You'll see beautiful forests, rivers, and mountains. The train follows a route that was historically used to transport prisoners and timber.
Yes, an audio guide is provided via headphones, offering narration in multiple languages about the history of the train and the region. However, some users report the English audio guide can be inconsistent.
The train makes one scheduled stop where passengers can disembark to take photos, explore a small waterfall (requiring a short climb), and interact with costumed 'prisoners'.
The main station is well-equipped with restrooms, a gift shop, and food options. The secondary station is smaller but also has restrooms.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from the window seats during the ride, and at the stopover station where you can capture the vintage train and the reenactment actors.
Yes, window seats offer excellent views. Be mindful of reflections on the glass and try to capture the passing scenery.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. If you're keen on capturing landscapes, a wide-angle lens can be useful. Consider a camera that performs well in varying light conditions.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of other passengers and the staff. Avoid flash photography that might disturb others.
Morning departures often offer softer light and potentially fewer crowds, leading to better photographic conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Ensure children have sturdy shoes for the stopover, and consider bringing snacks and drinks as options might be limited. The audio guide provides historical context, which can be simplified for kids by parents. It's a gentle introduction to Ushuaia's history in a captivating setting.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Solo traveler advice: Consider joining a tour that includes the train for easier logistics and potential companionship, or simply enjoy the journey at your own pace. The historical narrative and scenic beauty make it a fulfilling solo adventure.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips: Aim for morning departures for softer light and fewer crowds. Window seats are ideal for capturing the passing scenery. Be prepared for reflections on the glass and consider a lens that can handle both wide landscapes and closer details.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the 'End of the World Train'
Visitors can learn about the harsh realities faced by the prisoners through the onboard audio guide and the reenactments at the stopover station. The story of how these men carved out a life and built infrastructure in such an isolated location is a significant part of Ushuaia's heritage. The train's carriages are vintage, and the steam engines add to the authentic historical atmosphere, making it a unique experience for history buffs and casual travelers alike.
The significance of the train lies not just in its operational status but in its role as a living museum. It preserves a crucial chapter of Ushuaia's development and offers a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of early Patagonian settlement. The route itself showcases the rugged beauty of Tierra del Fuego National Park, a landscape that was both a resource and a formidable barrier for the early inhabitants.
Experiencing the Stopover Station
Beyond the actors, the stopover station often features a small waterfall accessible via a short climb, offering a brief natural interlude. It's a chance to stretch your legs and take in more of the surrounding Patagonian scenery. While the main station is well-equipped, this secondary stop is more basic, so be prepared for fewer amenities.
The stopover is a highlight for many visitors, transforming the train ride from a simple scenic tour into a more dynamic historical experience. It’s a well-executed touch that brings the past to life and adds significant value to the overall journey. Remember to wear appropriate footwear for navigating the paths, especially if they are wet or icy.
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