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Tolhuin: How to Get There and What to See

Tolhuin is a small town located in the heart of Tierra del Fuego. In the Selknam language, Tolhuin means “heart.”

This charming town can be visited from either Ushuaia or Río Grande and offers natural attractions and scenic landscapes that make it well worth a visit. Tolhuin sits just a few meters from the shore of Lake Fagnano, surrounded by forests and mountains.

Despite its size, Tolhuin has a complete tourism infrastructure with hotels, restaurants, a tourist information office, and museums.

How to Get to Tolhuin

Tolhuin is located along National Route 3 (paved) and is the midway point between the two main cities of Tierra del Fuego: Ushuaia and Río Grande.

All bus and coach services between these cities stop in Tolhuin.

Distance from Ushuaia: 103 km.
Distance from Río Grande: 109 km.

Top Places to Visit in Tolhuin

Cabo San Pablo

One of the most fascinating excursions from Tolhuin is a trip to Cabo San Pablo. From town, take Route 3 and then Route A heading east (mostly gravel road). The journey offers stunning Fuegian landscapes.

Cabo San Pablo is a prominent coastal headland marked by dramatic tidal changes. On the cape stands an automatic lighthouse operated by the Argentine Navy. One of the main attractions here is the Desdémona shipwreck, a large, rusted vessel stranded on the shore.

Laguna Negra Nature Reserve

Located just north of Lake Fagnano, Laguna Negra is separated from it by a narrow land strip.

The trail to reach Laguna Negra starts near the lake and is also accessible by car, taxi, or Uber.

The area features walking trails surrounded by Fuegian forest, ideal for birdwatching, hiking, and enjoying the region's natural beauty.

Cerro Jeujepen

Named after the word “guanaco” in the Selknam language, Cerro Jeujepen offers a panoramic viewpoint over Lake Fagnano and its surroundings.

You can hike to the summit via an easy walking trail (about one hour) or drive up to the lookout point via a vehicle-accessible road.