View from the Top
1 / 10

Glaciar Martial Ushuaia

4.7
·3k reviews·Ushuaia, Argentina

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
View from the Top

Glaciar Martial Ushuaia

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(3k reviews)

"The glacier is a quick drive up the mountain from Ushuaia. There are beautiful views of the city along the way."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Ascending the trail

Witness breathtaking vistas of Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel as you climb.

Instagram
The Tea House

The Tea House

Near the trail entrance

A charming spot for a warm drink and pastry after your hike.

TikTokInstagram
The Glacier Itself

The Glacier Itself

Summit

Reach the icy expanse for a true Patagonian glacial experience.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Start your trek early to avoid crowds and allow ample time, especially if aiming for the true glacier. The path can be steep and icy, so plan accordingly. Reddit

Gear Up for the Trail

Rent ice cleats for your shoes and bring walking sticks to navigate icy patches. Proper footwear is crucial for safety and enjoyment on the mountain. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Golden light, fewer people
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter evenings
Why
Unique torchlight events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cerrando la temporada de Invierno en la Reserva del Glaciar Martial ❄️🙋 🛸✒️🧢 @buyan.gustavo 🌎 Reserva Camino al Glaciar Martial en Ushuaia. Tierra del Fuego. Patagonia 🇦🇷 #ushuaia #patagonia #viajar #fypシ #findelmundo #drone #volar #neve #nieve #glacier #travel #turismo
@gustavobuyan
145.7K likes • 1.3M views

Rent Ice Cleats!

Essential for icy trails. Don't lose them, or you'll pay a fine! :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Start Early

Allow plenty of time for the hike, especially if you want to reach the glacier. :clock1: Reddit

Você já conhece um dos principais eventos de Ushuaia no Inverno? 😱 Nesse final de semana tivemos a Bajada de Antorchas, um evento anual no qual diversos esquiadores descem o Glaciar Martial com tochas vermelhas para comemorar a temporada de inverno! 😍 Ficou lindo demais essa cena né? 👏 Alguém aqui viu ao vivo? 👀 . . . . . #brasileirosemushuaia #ushuaia #findelmundo #tierradelfuego #patagonia #viag...
@brasileirosemushuaia
32.9K likes • 843.3K views
Ushuaia. Glaciar Martial. Casa de té @turismoushuaia @infodeushuaia @ushuaiamunicipalidad @casadeteushuaia
namunkuravyt
91 likes • 4.6K views

Bring a Raincoat

Weather changes quickly; a waterproof layer is a must. :umbrella: Instagram

Walk from Town

The forest trail from Ushuaia is beautiful and free. :deciduous_tree: Reddit

Conocé nieve este verano. Un glaciar muy cerca de la ciudad 🙌🏻🏔️ . 🚶🏻🚶🏼‍♀️El Trekking al Glaciar Martial es una de las experiencias más enriquecedoras para hacer en tus vacaciones.🌤️ . A medida que vas ascendiendo, las vistas a la ciudad son cada vez más espectaculares! y con diferentes paradas, vos podés decidir hasta dónde llegar... 😉👍🏻 . ☝🏻 Importante: 📍 Siempre es necesario llevar el calzado a...
planeto.argentina
3.7K likes • 198.4K views

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: Reddit

Start Early

Allow plenty of time for the hike, especially if you want to reach the glacier. :clock1: Reddit

Bring a Raincoat

Weather changes quickly; a waterproof layer is a must. :umbrella: Instagram

Walk from Town

The forest trail from Ushuaia is beautiful and free. :deciduous_tree: Reddit

Check Entrance Fees

There's an admission fee, so be prepared. :ticket: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(3k reviews)

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. Reddit

"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

Spectacular city views
Charming tea house
Rewarding hike

What People Dislike

Steep and icy trails
Need for gear rental
Potential fines

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🥾 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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram+1

🍽️ ☕ 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. TikTokInstagram

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: Reddit

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. TikTok

There are no restaurants at the summit. The main dining option is the tea house located closer to the base of the trail. TikTok

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

Drone usage might be restricted in protected natural areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone to avoid any issues. TikTok

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Glaciar Martial can be a fun adventure for families, but requires careful planning. The initial part of the trail from Ushuaia is generally easier and offers beautiful forest scenery that kids might enjoy. Reddit However, as you ascend, the trail becomes steeper and can be icy, which might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Reddit Consider renting ice cleats for everyone's shoes to ensure better grip and safety on slippery sections. Reddit The tea house near the entrance is a great spot for a family break with snacks and warm drinks. TikTokInstagram Ensure everyone is dressed in layers and has waterproof gear, as Ushuaia's weather can be unpredictable. Instagram

🚶 Solo Travelers

Solo travelers will find Glaciar Martial to be a rewarding experience, offering stunning views and a sense of accomplishment. Starting the hike from Ushuaia through the forest is a great way to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the solitude. Reddit Be extra cautious with footwear and consider renting ice cleats and a walking stick for safety, especially if you're not accustomed to hiking on uneven or icy terrain. Reddit Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time. The tea house is a good place to connect with other travelers or simply enjoy a quiet moment. TikTokInstagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Glaciar Martial is an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers as the hike itself is free if you start from Ushuaia. Instagram The main cost to consider is the entrance fee to the glacier area. Reddit Renting ice cleats and walking sticks is a worthwhile expense for safety, but compare prices between rental shops. Reddit Packing your own snacks and water will save money compared to purchasing them at the tea house or any potential vendors. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Trekking to the Glacier

The trek to Glaciar Martial is a highlight for many visitors to Ushuaia. It offers a relatively accessible mountain experience with rewarding views. The trail can be started directly from Ushuaia, providing a beautiful walk through the forest before reaching the more open, steeper sections. Reddit Many travelers recommend this initial forest path as the most enjoyable part of the hike, often finding themselves alone amidst the trees. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

There is an entrance fee to access the glacier area, so factor this into your budget. Reddit 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. Instagram

Seasonal Wonders at Glaciar Martial

Glaciar Martial offers distinct experiences throughout the year. During winter, the area transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. It's also the time for unique events like the 'Bajada de Antorchas,' where skiers descend the glacier with torches, creating a magical spectacle. TikTokInstagram The snow-covered landscape provides a dramatic backdrop and a chance to experience a Patagonian winter. TikTokInstagram

Autumn brings a different kind of beauty, with the landscape painted in warm hues of red and gold. Instagram 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. Instagram

Even in summer, you might encounter snow at higher elevations, offering a unique opportunity to experience snow during the warmer months. Instagram Regardless of the season, the views of the Beagle Channel and the surrounding mountains remain a constant, breathtaking feature of Glaciar Martial. Instagram

The Iconic Tea House

Nestled near the entrance to the Glaciar Martial trail is a beloved tea house, a perfect sanctuary for visitors. TikTokInstagram This charming spot offers a welcome respite, serving delicious pastries and warm beverages, making it an ideal place to refuel or relax after a hike. TikTok Many travelers find it to be a delightful addition to their Glaciar Martial experience, providing a cozy atmosphere and a taste of local hospitality. Instagram

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. TikTok 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. Instagram