Off Road 4WD. The Best Experience in Ushuaia

The idea of seeing some of the most beautiful nooks on the island of Tierra del Fuego has always been captivating. Thinking that Argentina offers the chance to go through the very experiences narrated by brilliant Jack London in his memorable books is a magical thing. It looks like fiction but it can be real.

That is why, when the moment came, we were picked up at our hotel. Soon we started to perceive what was coming and our bodies were filled with adrenaline, excitement and joy.

In a matter of seconds, after greeting the members of the group, we were already on board one of the two Toyota 4WD vehicles that would be leaving the city for only one day.

The tour led us northwards through the Olivia River Valley towards Valle de Lobos (Valley of Wolves), where we would find the famous sled dogs that have been incorporated to the local natural scene.

This is a mandatory stop in order to learn about the Alaskan Huskies and how they are bred and trained to pull the sleds during the winter, when tourists from all over the world come along to enjoy these fascinating rides through the snowy dales and woods in Ushuaia.

Dozens of photographs and then we took Route 3 and were dazzled by unforgettable views of the mountains. We made a stop to identify the habitat of beavers and their famous lodges.

We crossed the Andes Mountain Range at the highest point in Tierra del Fuego: the famous Garibaldi Pass, where it is possible to appreciate incredible panoramic views of Lakes Escondido and Fagnano. The latter is the largest in the province.

From the Garibaldi Pass viewpoint, we could observe the old road that leads to the north and runs between rock walls through lenga woods before it reaches the lake.

“That is the road we use in the summer”, the guide told us as he pointed at it with his finger. No sooner had he finished saying that than many members of the group were already murmuring about returning to this place during the summertime, when the days lasts almost 24 hours in Ushuaia.

We continued traveling and then made a stop to have a hot beverage to fight the cold, although the adrenaline and fascination we had experienced so far contributed to keeping us warm.

Most of us had no idea about the diversity of flower species present on “the Island”, as the guides used to call it. Some of its birds can only be seen in biology books. There is also a wide array of wonderful plants and bushes every green nursery in the world would like to have.

In addition to all this, water, mud, snow, wind, rain and sunshine are elements that succeed in making us experience different sensations, as if the change in the weather would be part of a game specially designed for visitors not to slow down.

After wading some creeks and streams, we came close to the shores of both lakes. Almost before we could notice, it was midday and we were feeling hungry. Lunch could not be postponed any more.

We knew that an excellent picada (an assorted tray of cold cuts, cheese and other regional products) was awaiting us in the comfort of a cozy cabin, which would be followed by a delicious asado.

A toast with either wine or a soft drink is a must for adventurers on this island. Choripan, bife de chorizo and grilled vegetables make up the repertoire that represents the perfect finale for this outing.

Back on the road heading for the hotel, we felt different. We were satisfied with such a memorable exploit.