
Glaciar Martial Ushuaia
Hike to Glaciar Martial for breathtaking views of Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel, with a charming tea house en route.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds

Glaciar Martial Ushuaia
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to Glaciar Martial for breathtaking views of Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel, with a charming tea house en route.
"The glacier is a quick drive up the mountain from Ushuaia. There are beautiful views of the city along the way."

Rent Ice Cleats!
Essential for icy trails. Don't lose them, or you'll pay a fine! :athletic_shoe:
Start Early
Allow plenty of time for the hike, especially if you want to reach the glacier. :clock1:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views
Ascending the trail
Witness breathtaking vistas of Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel as you climb.

The Tea House
Near the trail entrance
A charming spot for a warm drink and pastry after your hike.

The Glacier Itself
Summit
Reach the icy expanse for a true Patagonian glacial experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gear Up for the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Rent Ice Cleats!
Essential for icy trails. Don't lose them, or you'll pay a fine! :athletic_shoe:
Start Early
Allow plenty of time for the hike, especially if you want to reach the glacier. :clock1:
Bring a Raincoat
Weather changes quickly; a waterproof layer is a must. :umbrella:
Walk from Town
The forest trail from Ushuaia is beautiful and free. :deciduous_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
Rent Ice Cleats!
Essential for icy trails. Don't lose them, or you'll pay a fine! :athletic_shoe:
Start Early
Allow plenty of time for the hike, especially if you want to reach the glacier. :clock1:
Bring a Raincoat
Weather changes quickly; a waterproof layer is a must. :umbrella:
Walk from Town
The forest trail from Ushuaia is beautiful and free. :deciduous_tree:
Check Entrance Fees
There's an admission fee, so be prepared. :ticket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Glaciar Martial for its stunning panoramic views of Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel, and the charming tea house near the trail. The hike offers a rewarding experience, especially when starting from the city through the forest. However, some find the trail steep and icy, emphasizing the need for proper gear like ice cleats and walking sticks, and cautioning about potential fines if equipment is lost.
"This review is coming from a 56 year old, completely out of shape, solo traveler. So if you are young, healthy, fit and traveling with someone else, this is a different POV.
First, let me say that this whole area is not handicap friendly. It's the side of a mountain, so MANY of the streets in Ushuaia are very steep with blends of steep sidewalks and intermittent steps to climb.
The glacier is a quick drive up the mountain from Ushuaia. There are beautiful views of the city along the way, and I saw one viewpoint along the way.
I went here because someone from my office in Buenos Aires told me it was "a short, steep walk completely worth the view". Let me tell you, it's about 4 miles (6km) in one direction, which isn't a bad walk there or back IF you're not walking up an intense grade covered in snow and ice.
When you arrive to the visitors center, there are two rental places to get supplies. I did not see any clothing rentals. Just trekking, ski, and snowboard supplies. (For clothes, I recommend Cumbre Rentals in Ushuaia) You really do need to rent the claim clamps for your shoes which help walk on ice and at least one walking stick per person. A set of clamps was 10,000 pesos and the sticks were 5,000 pesos each. If when you are walking you can hear the chains of your clamp jangling stop and check it. I got back to the bottom only to find out that my right foot clamp was gone, which cost me a $50 fine.
It's not clearly marked but you go up the set of concrete steps to the left which pass a set of restrooms. At the top of the steps there's an information stand and you turn right to buy the 10,000 pesos ticket for admission to the glacier.
I've included photos and several videos to describe what happened to me. I did not make it to the glacier because I underestimated the distance, it would have been dark before I would get there, and because my gps was a liar. The gps told me that I was there when I was only at the halfway point. The second part of the track is much more difficult than the first. It really was beautiful, just getting to the halfway point. But if you want to see the glacier you should start out much earlier in the day to allow for the time needed.
On the way back down I made the mistake of choosing to walk down the ski slope area since it is currently not ski season. Definitely do not recommend doing this. Go back through the forest. The slope killed my knees going back down.
The area is beautiful and I hope you can come visit The End of the World here in Ushuaia within the province of Tierra del Fuego.
#jamieinargentina #shelivesontheroad #shesharestheroad #weshouldallknowthesethings #thingslookdifferentouthere #theroadholdsurprises #aclarifiedwoman #aclarifiedwomanthought #sheisherownrainbow"
A Clarified Woman
"I'm old and fat and made it to a very small 'glacier'. It was very windy and steep, BUT well worth the trip. It was probably another kilometer to the proper glacier. Even if you just make it as far as I did, you'll love it."
David Rumptz
"Highly recommended. We walked all the way from Ushuaia and took the orange and blue trail. Beautiful views!
Be aware that now there is an entrance fee of 10.000ARS."
Agnieszka Lelakowska
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Glaciar Martial by car, taxi, or even by walking from Ushuaia. The drive is about 7 km from the city center. Many visitors choose to start their trek from Ushuaia itself to enjoy the forest path, which is considered the best part of the hike.
While specific bus routes might vary, taxis and private transfers are readily available from Ushuaia. Some travelers opt to walk the entire way from the city, enjoying the scenic route.
The terrain is challenging, being a mountainside with steep inclines and steps. However, there have been services in the past offering transport up the steeper parts for those with disabilities. It's advisable to inquire locally about current accessibility options.
Many recommend starting the hike from Ushuaia through the forest for a more immersive experience. Alternatively, you can drive or take a taxi to the parking area, which is already mid-route.
Yes, it's a popular option for many visitors. The walk from Ushuaia offers beautiful forest scenery and is a great way to experience the natural surroundings before reaching the steeper sections.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee to access the glacier area. Be prepared to pay around 10,000 ARS, as reported by recent visitors.
The trails are generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to start your hike early in the morning to allow ample time and avoid potential crowds.
Advance booking is typically not required for general access. However, it's always a good idea to check for any special events or seasonal changes that might affect entry.
While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, guided tours are common in Ushuaia. It's worth inquiring locally or with your accommodation about options for guided treks to Glaciar Martial.
This is an annual winter event where skiers descend the Glaciar Martial with torches to celebrate the end of the winter season. It's a spectacular sight if you're visiting during that time.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike is generally considered low to moderate difficulty, but it can become steep and icy, especially closer to the glacier. Renting ice cleats is highly recommended.
The time can vary greatly depending on your starting point and pace. Hiking from Ushuaia can take several hours, while starting from the parking area is shorter. Allow at least 2-3 hours round trip from the parking lot.
Dress in layers, as the temperature can change significantly. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are essential. Sturdy hiking boots are a must, and consider bringing gloves and a hat.
Yes, public restrooms are available at the start of the trail, near the visitor center. It's advisable to use them before beginning your ascent.
You'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Ushuaia, the Beagle Channel, and the surrounding Patagonian landscape. The higher you climb, the more spectacular the vistas become.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a charming tea house located near the trail entrance, offering pastries and warm drinks. It's a perfect spot to relax after your hike.
Absolutely! It's a good idea to pack snacks and water, especially for longer hikes. Remember to pack out all your trash to keep the area clean. :apple:
The tea house offers a selection of pastries and hot beverages, making it an ideal place for a mid-hike treat or a post-hike reward.
There are no restaurants at the summit. The main dining option is the tea house located closer to the base of the trail.
It's always a good idea to have a light, energizing meal before embarking on a hike. This will provide you with the necessary fuel for the ascent. :banana:
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views of Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel are incredible photo opportunities. Don't miss capturing the icy landscapes and the charming tea house.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset shots can be particularly stunning.
Drone usage might be restricted in protected natural areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone to avoid any issues.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. If you plan to photograph the ice formations, a macro lens could be useful. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions. :camerawithflash:
As you ascend, various viewpoints offer increasingly dramatic perspectives of the city and the surrounding mountains. Keep an eye out for natural clearings and elevated spots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Solo Travelers
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Trekking to the Glacier
As you ascend, the terrain becomes more challenging, with steep inclines and, depending on the season, icy patches. It's crucial to be prepared for these conditions. Renting ice cleats (crampons) for your shoes and using walking sticks are highly advised for safety and stability. The distance to the actual glacier can be deceiving, and underestimating it can lead to starting too late in the day, potentially facing darkness on your return.
There is an entrance fee to access the glacier area, so factor this into your budget. While the hike is generally manageable, it's important to assess your fitness level and start early to fully enjoy the experience without rushing. The views of Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel from higher up are spectacular and a significant part of the trek's appeal.
Seasonal Wonders at Glaciar Martial
Autumn brings a different kind of beauty, with the landscape painted in warm hues of red and gold. This season offers a more serene experience, with fewer crowds and crisp air, making it ideal for hiking and photography. The changing foliage adds a unique charm to the already stunning scenery.
Even in summer, you might encounter snow at higher elevations, offering a unique opportunity to experience snow during the warmer months. Regardless of the season, the views of the Beagle Channel and the surrounding mountains remain a constant, breathtaking feature of Glaciar Martial.
The Iconic Tea House
It's a popular stop for both those starting their trek and those returning, offering a chance to savor the moment and the beautiful surroundings. The tea house is often highlighted in social media content, showcasing its picturesque setting and inviting ambiance, making it a must-visit landmark for many exploring the area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit