Beagle Channel, Ushuaia

Beagle Channel Tours & Tickets

Did you know? Beagle Channel

The Beagle Channel was named after HMS Beagle, the famous survey ship that carried Charles Darwin on his historic voyage in 1831–1836.

The channel forms a natural maritime boundary between Argentina (Tierra del Fuego) and Chile, with several islands belonging to each country.

Estancia Harberton, established in 1886, is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement on the Argentine side of Tierra del Fuego.

The waters host a rich population of sea lions, Magellanic penguins, and southern right whales during migration seasons (June–December).

Winter temperatures drop to around 0–5°C (32–41°F), and the channel can be treacherous with sudden weather changes and strong currents.

The iconic lighthouse at Les Éclaireurs island, visible from Ushuaia's coast, has guided mariners since 1920 and is one of the most photographed landmarks in Patagonia.

Beagle Channel: frequently asked questions