World Travel Tips

If you’re planning a trip to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, understanding flight routes and airport information will be your first step. Ushuaia is not only a gateway to some of the most stunning natural landscapes on Earth but also offers a unique experience due to its proximity to Antarctica. To help you navigate your way to this far-flung destination, today I’ll provide you with a detailed guide on how to easily reach Ushuaia by flight and recommend the best flight options.

Ushuaia International Airport (Malvinas Argentinas International Airport)

Ushuaia International Airport (Malvinas Argentinas International Airport) is the main gateway to the southernmost city in the world. Situated just 5 kilometers from the heart of Ushuaia, the airport is easily accessible, making it a convenient starting point for your adventure to explore the wild landscapes of Tierra del Fuego.

Though relatively small, the airport is well-equipped to handle both international and domestic flights, offering travelers the essential services they need after a long journey. Upon arrival, you’ll find helpful information counters, cafes for a quick bite, and souvenir shops offering locally-made products. Whether you’re looking to grab a cup of coffee or pick up some last-minute gifts, the airport’s amenities will make your arrival comfortable and hassle-free.

The airport serves both international travelers connecting through Buenos Aires and domestic passengers. It has all the basic facilities, including baggage claim, rental car services, and shuttle options to get to the city center. Despite its smaller size, the efficiency and friendliness of the staff ensure that you will be well taken care of throughout your arrival process.

Flying to Ushuaia from Buenos Aires

The most common route to Ushuaia is through Buenos Aires, Argentina’s capital. Buenos Aires is the main hub for all international flights coming into Argentina, so international visitors will first land at Ezeiza International Airport in Buenos Aires. From there, you will take a domestic flight to Ushuaia International Airport (Malvinas Argentinas International Airport).

• Flight Duration: The flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia is approximately 3.5 hours. It’s a short, yet scenic flight that offers you an aerial view of Argentina’s breathtaking landscapes, from vast plains and forests to the rugged, snow-capped peaks of the Andes mountain range. The flight is typically very smooth, and the clear, open skies offer fantastic views throughout the journey.
• Airlines and Routes: The primary airlines operating flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia are Aerolineas Argentinas and LATAM Airlines. Both airlines offer direct flights from Buenos Aires’ Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (the domestic airport) to Ushuaia. Aerolineas Argentinas, in particular, offers frequent flights with flexible scheduling, making it one of the most reliable and popular choices for passengers. LATAM Airlines also provides excellent service with comfortable seats, making it another great option.
• Departure from Buenos Aires: Aeroparque Jorge Newbery, located near the city center, is where you’ll board your flight to Ushuaia. Aeroparque is easily accessible from most areas in Buenos Aires, either by taxi, public transport, or a shuttle service from Ezeiza International Airport if you’re transferring from an international flight. It is a relatively small domestic airport, but it’s well-organized, with facilities such as cafes, shops, and lounges for travelers to relax before their flight.
• The Scenic Flight: As you take off from Buenos Aires and head south, you’ll begin to see the dramatic changes in the landscape as you approach the southernmost regions of Argentina. You’ll fly over lush forests and massive lakes, and as you near Ushuaia, you will be able to spot the rugged mountains and the coastline that make this region so unique. The clear skies and crisp air provide some of the best views you’ll experience during your trip, offering a taste of what’s to come once you land in Ushuaia.

Once you arrive in Ushuaia, you’ll immediately feel the proximity to the wild, untouched beauty of southern Argentina. The journey might be relatively short, but the scenery is so mesmerizing that it will make the entire flight worthwhile. Upon landing at Ushuaia International Airport, you’ll find the airport is well connected to the city center with taxis, car rentals, and shuttle services.

Connecting Flights and Layovers

For international travelers, Ushuaia can be reached through a connecting flight from Ezeiza International Airport (Buenos Aires). Typically, you’ll need to pass through customs and immigration in Buenos Aires before heading to Aeroparque Jorge Newbery for your flight to Ushuaia. The transfer between the two airports is straightforward and takes around 30-45 minutes by taxi or shuttle, depending on traffic.

If you have a longer layover in Buenos Aires, this is a great opportunity to experience the vibrant city. Buenos Aires is known for its rich culture, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere, so you can explore the city for a few hours before catching your next flight.

In general, if you’re flying from any other international destination, a layover in Buenos Aires is unavoidable, but the city is very well-equipped for travelers with plenty to do, from sightseeing to shopping and dining.

Other Transportation Options

While flying is the most convenient way to reach Ushuaia from Buenos Aires, there are alternative options for travelers looking for a more scenic journey.

1. Bus Travel: For those who prefer to explore Argentina by land, long-distance buses connect Buenos Aires to Ushuaia. The journey takes over 20 hours, so it’s more suitable for those with extra time and a sense of adventure. Buses are comfortable, but flying is undoubtedly the faster and more practical option for most travelers.
2. Cruise Ships: For the ultimate adventure, some travelers opt to take a cruise that departs from Buenos Aires or other ports in Argentina, traveling through the stunning Patagonian region and eventually reaching Ushuaia. This is a slower but uniquely scenic way to reach the southernmost city.

Getting to Ushuaia is an unforgettable part of the journey, whether you fly directly from Buenos Aires or choose alternative modes of travel. The 3.5-hour flight from Buenos Aires is the most popular and convenient option, with frequent flights offered by Aerolineas Argentinas and LATAM Airlines. Once you arrive, you’ll find that Ushuaia’s airport is small but functional, providing all the services you need to get to your next adventure in this breathtaking corner of the world. Whether you’re arriving by air, sea, or road, your arrival in Ushuaia marks the start of an incredible journey to the end of the world.

Recommended Airlines:

1. Aerolineas Argentinas

As Argentina’s national airline, Aerolineas Argentinas offers regular flights to Ushuaia. With flights departing from Aeroparque Jorge Newbery, the domestic airport in Buenos Aires, Aerolineas Argentinas provides reliable service with flexible schedules. They are known for their good service, punctuality, and comfortable flying experience, making them one of the best options for your journey. The airline’s staff offers excellent service, creating a warm and welcoming environment for all passengers.

Why choose Aerolineas Argentinas: They offer flexible flight schedules, stable services, and a high safety record.

2. LATAM Airlines

LATAM Airlines, one of South America’s largest airline groups, also provides flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia. LATAM offers multiple daily flights, giving travelers plenty of options to suit their schedules. The airline is known for its high-quality services, delicious onboard meals, and overall comfortable flying experience. LATAM’s service is well-regarded across Latin America, and it provides excellent options for both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking more luxury.

Why choose LATAM Airlines: LATAM offers top-notch service and a comfortable flying experience, making it an excellent option for different budgets and needs.

Connecting Through Buenos Aires

For international travelers, Buenos Aires will be your primary gateway to Ushuaia. Upon arriving at Ezeiza International Airport, you will go through customs and immigration before boarding your connecting flight to Ushuaia. The transition from international to domestic flights is straightforward, with easy connections to the domestic flights that depart from Aeroparque Jorge Newbery.

• Layover Time: The transfer between the two airports (Ezeiza and Aeroparque) usually takes about 30 minutes by car. For those with a longer layover, there are plenty of shops and restaurants in both airports to relax and enjoy some Argentine food while you wait.
• Flight Connections: Various airlines, including Aerolineas Argentinas and LATAM, offer seamless connections to Ushuaia, so you can easily choose a flight that fits your schedule.

Alternative Route: Connecting via Santiago

For travelers who are already in other South American countries or looking to explore the region further, it is also possible to connect to Ushuaia via Santiago, Chile. Although this adds time to your trip, it can be a good option for those already planning to visit Chile or other nearby destinations. Flying from Santiago to Ushuaia will also give you a unique view of the Andes Mountains and southern Chile’s beautiful landscape.

Transportation Upon Arrival in Ushuaia

Once you arrive at Ushuaia International Airport, getting around the city is easy. Ushuaia’s compact city center is perfect for walking, and the main attractions are easily accessible by foot. However, for travelers wishing to visit attractions outside of the city, such as Tierra del Fuego National Park or Beagle Channel, taxis and public buses are available for convenient transport.

• Taxis: There are several taxi services in Ushuaia, and the fares are reasonable for getting around town.
• Public Buses: Ushuaia also has a simple but efficient public transportation system, making it easy to travel to most major tourist spots.

Ushuaia’s beauty and unique location make it one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world, and understanding how to reach this remote city is essential for every traveler. By connecting through Buenos Aires, you can easily hop on a flight with Aerolineas Argentinas or LATAM Airlines, two of the best options for a comfortable and reliable journey. Once you’re in Ushuaia, taxis and public transport will help you explore this remarkable destination, with its breathtaking natural wonders and cultural treasures waiting for you to discover. No matter how you travel to Ushuaia, your journey will be unforgettable, as you venture to the end of the world and beyond!

Tags: Aerolineas Argentinas, Taxis, Ushuaia International Airport