End of the World Train Ticket

Few places on Earth capture the imagination quite like Ushuaia, Argentina’s southernmost city. For those eager to stand at the edge of the world, a ride on the End of the World Train offers a fascinating blend of history, scenery, and a touch of adventure. Priced at about $80 per person and lasting around 2 hours, this tour takes you along a historic rail line that follows the route of the old convict train used from 1910 to 1947.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to see remote landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park, with its rivers, waterfalls, forests, and mountains—all from the comfort of vintage steam locomotives and large-window carriages. Plus, the onboard commentary helps you learn about the region’s colorful past, making it more than just a scenic ride.

One possible drawback to keep in mind: entry to Tierra del Fuego National Park is not included in the ticket, so you’ll need to purchase that separately if you want to explore further after the train ride. Also, some reviews mention that the train ride itself can feel underwhelming if you’re expecting to reach the “end of the world” or see extensive scenery—it’s a short trip with some stops, not a full-day adventure. But if your focus is on a quick, authentic, and scenic historical journey, it’s a good fit.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate history and scenery in equal measure, those interested in a brief but memorable experience, or families wanting a gentle adventure. It’s especially ideal if you want to tick off a must-see attraction while keeping logistics simple.

Key Points

• Historic Route: Follows the path of the original convict train that once transported materials across Tierra del Fuego.
• Stunning Scenery: Offers views of rivers, waterfalls, forests, and mountains, with some reviews describing the snow-capped landscape as “cool” and “magnificent.”
• Educational Commentary: Onboard narration enriches the ride with stories of the region’s past.
• Limited Park Access: Entrance to Tierra del Fuego National Park is not included, so plan separately if you want to explore the park.
• Short but Sweet: The 2-hour trip includes a 15-minute stop at La Macarena station for brief exploration.
• Mixed Reviews: Some travelers find it a “must-do” and value-rich, while others feel it’s overpriced or too brief for the cost.

A Thorough Look at the Tour Experience

When we first consider the End of the World Train, what immediately catches our eye is its historic charm. The train itself is a vintage steam locomotive, a nod to the region’s past, with large windows that promise great views. Traveling along the old convict route, the train offers a peaceful ride through landscapes that seem to stretch into the horizon.

Itinerary Breakdown

The journey begins in Ushuaia, where you board the train for a roughly two-hour excursion that covers about 7 km inside Tierra del Fuego National Park. The ride retraces part of the route used for transporting prisoners, which adds a layer of historical interest. As you chug along, you’ll pass notable sights such as the Pipo River, the Macarena cascade, and a “tree cemetery”—a collection of old, fallen trees standing like silent witnesses to the forest’s history.

The train zigzags through the landscape, giving you glimpses of lush forests, rugged mountains, and riverine scenery. One of the more praised aspects of this trip is the narration—if included in your ticket or available through headphones—that shares stories about the region’s past, including its convict history and native peoples.

The Stop at La Macarena Station

About 15 minutes are allotted at La Macarena station, which is enough for a quick stretch and a brief look around. Some reviews mention that this is the most enjoyable part of the trip, as you can step out and admire the landscape up close. However, be prepared for a short window for exploration—if you’re hoping for a full park day, this trip is just a snippet.

The Scenic Value

Many visitors rave about the scenery, describing it as “magnificent” and “snowy” during certain seasons. The landscape is remote and largely untouched, which makes the train ride feel like a step back in time. While some reviewers lament that the train doesn’t go all the way to the ocean or the “end of the world,” the views along the route still deliver a sense of wildness and isolation that’s hard to find elsewhere.

The Historical and Educational Aspect

Onboard commentary, when available, enhances the experience by sharing stories about the prison history and regional development. Travelers who appreciate a bit of context find this adds a meaningful layer to the ride, transforming it from a simple scenic trip into a lesson about local history.

Ticket and Entrance Cost Considerations

It’s crucial to note that tickets do not include entrance to Tierra del Fuego National Park. You must buy that separately, which can be a bit of a surprise for some travelers. The reviews reflect mixed feelings—some feel the combined cost is high for a short ride and limited park access, while others see it as part of the overall experience.

The Authenticity and Practicalities

The End of the World Train provides a taste of the region’s history and natural beauty without requiring a full-day commitment. It’s particularly suited for those who want a gentle, scenic, and educational experience. The train’s vintage charm and the story-laden narration make it more than just a train ride; it’s a capsule of Tierra del Fuego’s past.

However, if you’re expecting a large-scale adventure or the chance to see the entire park, this trip might fall short. The ride is short, and the limited stop time means you won’t have much opportunity to explore beyond the station. Some travelers find it overpriced for what it offers, especially considering the additional cost of park entry.

What the Reviews Say

• Many praise the knowledgeable guides and helpful staff for making the trip enjoyable.
• Stunning scenery is a recurring highlight, with comments like “the views are magnificent” and “the landscape looks snowy and cool.”
• Some find it disappointing or overpriced, especially if they expected more extensive park access or longer rides.
• The short duration and limited stops are points of critique for travelers who want more time in nature.

Tips for Travelers

• Book early—the tour is popular and often booked 4 weeks in advance.
• Consider purchasing park tickets separately if you want to explore Tierra del Fuego beyond the train.
• For better value, some guests recommend upgrading to first class if available, as it offers more comfort and included amenities like a meal.
• To avoid disappointment, clarify with the provider about what’s included, especially if you want to spend more time in the park.

The Final Word: Who Should Do This?

This tour is best suited for history buffs, scenery lovers, and those looking for a brief taste of Tierra del Fuego’s rugged landscape. It offers a nostalgic ride with educational value, perfect for families or anyone curious about the region’s convict past. If you’re prepared for a short ride with limited time in the park, it can be a memorable highlight of your trip.

However, if you’re expecting a full-day adventure or extensive park exploration, you might find this experience a bit underwhelming. Budget-conscious travelers should also weigh the extra cost of park entry fees against the short ride.

In essence, it’s a quintessential Ushuaia experience—a charming, historic journey that captures the spirit of the “end of the world,” but with some limitations on scope and duration.

Does the ticket include entrance to Tierra del Fuego National Park?
No, the train ticket does not cover park admission. You will need to buy park tickets separately if you want to explore the area beyond the train station.

How long does the train ride last?
The whole journey is about 2 hours, including a 15-minute stop at La Macarena station for a quick look around.

Is the train ride suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, but they should be accompanied by an adult. The gentle train ride is family-friendly, though some reviews suggest the short duration may not hold very young children’s interest for long.

What’s the best way to get to the train station?
Some reviews advise skipping shuttle services and taking a taxi, which is cheaper and more flexible. The train station is near public transportation.

Can I upgrade to first class?
Yes, some travelers have enjoyed the first class experience, which offers a private compartment and better amenities.

Is the scenery worth the trip?
Most visitors agree that the landscape is beautiful, especially if you appreciate untouched wilderness and mountain vistas, but don’t expect an extensive tour of the entire park.

What should I bring or prepare?
Bring layers, as weather can change quickly. If you want to explore at La Macarena, wear comfortable shoes. Also, consider purchasing park tickets in advance if you plan to spend more time in Tierra del Fuego.

Is the commentary in multiple languages?
Yes, the tour may be operated with multilingual guides and audio guides, helping you understand the region’s history and environment.

What if I want a longer or more in-depth experience?
This tour is short and focused on the train ride itself. For more extensive exploration, consider combining it with other tours like navigation or trekking options in the area.

The End of the World Train in Ushuaia offers a charming, historically rooted journey through some of Tierra del Fuego’s most striking scenery. It’s an experience that resonates with travelers who enjoy a good story, vintage trains, and short scenic rides. While some may find it a bit costly or limited in scope, it’s undeniably a unique way to connect with the remote, rugged landscape of southern Argentina. Perfect for a quick snapshot of this wild corner of the world, it’s a trip you’ll remember for its views, history, and the sense of standing at the literal end of the earth.