How to get to Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego by car

Can You Drive to Ushuaia?

Yes! Ushuaia is fully accessible by road, but you must pass briefly through Chile before re-entering Argentina. This means:

• International border crossings (Argentina → Chile → Argentina)

• A mandatory ferry crossing with TABSA at Primera Angostura

• Long, remote stretches with limited fuel and services

Driving From El Chaltén or El Calafate (Argentina)

This is one of the most popular routes for Patagonia travelers.

Total driving time:

13–15 hours, depending on stops and border times.
Most travelers complete the trip in 2 days.

Route overview:

1. Drive south toward Río Gallegos (Argentina)

2. Cross into Chile at Paso Integración Austral

3. Continue to Punta Delgada ferry terminal - Maps location here

4. Take the TABSA ferry to Bahía Azul (Tierra del Fuego)

5. Drive to San Sebastián border to re-enter Argentina

6. Continue along Ruta 3 to Ushuaia

The TABSA Ferry: Essential for Reaching Tierra del Fuego

Route:

Punta Delgada → Bahía Azul (Chile)
This short crossing takes you across Primera Angostura, the narrowest point of the Strait of Magellan.

Maps location for the ferry's departure point here

Ferry details:

• Operator: TABSA (Transbordadora Austral Broom)

• Duration: 20–25 minutes

• No reservation needed (operates on a first-come basis)

• Ferries run frequently, typically every 30–60 minutes

• You stay inside your vehicle if you choose

• Payment is made at the booth before boarding

Tips:

• Winds can be strong — allow for potential delays

• Weekends and high season (Dec–Feb) can have queues

• Keep passports handy for border crossings on both sides

Where to Sleep on the Way to Ushuaia

Best overnight stop options:

Most travelers split the journey into two days.

1. Río Gallegos (Argentina)

Perfect if leaving from El Chaltén or El Calafate.
Good fuel, supermarkets, and hotels.

2. Punta Delgada or Cerro Sombrero (Chile)

Ideal if you want to be close to the ferry early in the morning.

3. Tolhuin (Argentina – Tierra del Fuego)

A great option after crossing the ferry and re-entering Argentina, located about 2.5 hours from Ushuaia.
Beautiful lake views and calmer atmosphere.

Fuel, Road Conditions & Driving Tips

Fuel stops are limited

• Always fill up in El Calafate, Río Gallegos, and San Sebastián.

• Distances between stations can exceed 200 km.

Road conditions

• Most of the journey is paved, but some Chilean sections can be gravel.

• Expect strong winds—drive with caution.

• Wildlife (guanacos, foxes) often cross the road.

Border crossings

• No fresh fruits, vegetables, or raw meats allowed into Chile. Always declare if you have some of these with you, to avoid fines.

• Have car documents + insurance ready

• Crossing times vary (10 min to 1 hour)

Is Driving to Ushuaia Worth It?

Absolutely. The landscapes of Tierra del Fuego — windswept steppes, wild coasts, lenga forests, and the dramatic mountains around Ushuaia — make this one of the most unforgettable road trips in South America.

It's also the most flexible way to explore:

• Stop at viewpoints

• Look for wildlife

• Photograph the scenery at sunset or blue hour

• Detour to Porvenir, Lago Fagnano, or Estancias

Final Tips Before You Go

• Start early each day

• Carry snacks, water, and offline maps

• Keep cash for the ferry (amount varies by season)

• Pack warm layers — weather changes fast

• If renting a car, confirm:

  • Cross-border permission

  • Insurance valid in both Chile and Argentina

  • Vehicle suitable for gravel