Tierra del Fuego Island, A Unique Place at the World's End

Chile Travel and News | By Raul Silva M.

 

Lake Fagnano
Image: educarchile

  Tierra del Fuego, known as the "Island at the End of the World," is an archipelago located at the southernmost tip of South America, shared by Chile and Argentina. The main island, Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego, spans approximately 48,100 km², with around 61% belonging to Chile and 39% to Argentina. Home to roughly 135,000 people, most residents live in the cities of Ushuaia (Argentina) and Porvenir (Chile). 

Its northern boundary is marked by the Strait of Magellan, which separates it from the mainland. To the south, it is bordered by the Beagle Channel; to the east, it faces the Atlantic Ocean; and its western edge features rugged coastlines along the Pacific Ocean, creating a unique crossroads of diverse landscapes and ecosystems.

The archipelago includes, in addition to the Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego, a series of smaller islands distributed between Chilean and Argentine territories. Some of the main ones are:

Chilean Islands:

• Navarino: Known for hosting Puerto Williams, considered the southernmost city in the world, and for its trekking routes, such as the Dientes de Navarino Circuit.
• Hoste: One of the largest after the main island, located south of Navarino.
• Gordon: Close to the Beagle Channel and part of Alberto de Agostini National Park.
• Londonderry: Located west of Navarino Island.
• Picton, Lennox, and Nueva: Three significant islands located in the Beagle Channel, part of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago. Each island has its own unique characteristics and history. These islands were disputed between Chile and Argentina but are now officially Chilean following the 1984 Treaty of Peace and Friendship.
• Dawson: With an area of around 1,290 km², it lies north of Isla Grande. Currently, the island hosts a naval base of the Chilean Navy and serves as the headquarters of an engineer company from the Chilean Marine Corps, as it is considered a strategic point for controlling the southern part of the Strait of Magellan. 

Argentine Islands:

• Isla de los Estados: Located east of the Isla Grande, famous for its isolation and rugged landscapes.
• Observatorio: A small island near Isla de los Estados.

Why Many Southern Chilean Islands Have English Names?: 

The influence of British expeditions in the 19th century, especially those carried out by the Royal Navy, largely explains why many of the islands in southern Chile have English names. During the famous Beagle expedition (1831-1836), in which Charles Darwin participated, several British explorers conducted detailed observations and mapping of the region, leading to the assignment of English names to many of these islands. The expedition, led by Captain Robert FitzRoy, was instrumental in the exploration of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego, and many of the names given by the British have endured to this day.

The Story Behind the Name 'Land of Fire'

Tierra del Fuego, (Land of Fire), is a name that evokes a sense of mystery and adventure. The region, located at the southern tip of South America, was named by the famous explorer Ferdinand Magellan in the early 1500s.

As he sailed along its coastline, he saw numerous fires burning on the shores of the islands, lit by the indigenous peoples living there. The sight of these flames gave Magellan the impression that the land was literally on fire, which is how it came to be called "Tierra del Fuego" in Spanish. The name has stuck ever since, capturing the fiery spirit of this remote, windswept part of the world.

How to Get There

Getting to Tierra del Fuego is an adventure in itself. From Argentina, you can reach Ushuaia with direct flights from Buenos Aires. 

From Chile, you can travel to Porvenir via flights from Punta Arenas operated by Aerovias DAP or take a ferry across the Strait of Magellan. It's also possible to cross the strait by ferry from Punta Delgada to Bahia Azul. Once on the island, there are plenty of fascinating places to explore.

Location

 

The Climate of Tierra del Fuego: Harsh and Unpredictable

Cruceros Australis - Tierra del Fuego fjords

Tierra del Fuego has a cold, windy, and unpredictable climate influenced by its proximity to Antarctica and the surrounding ocean currents. The climate varies across the island, with the western region receiving more rainfall due to the influence of the Pacific Ocean, while the eastern part is drier and windier, resembling the Patagonian steppe. Cloudy skies and frequent precipitation dominate the western and southern regions, whereas the eastern part, including areas near Río Grande, receives significantly less rainfall, making it more arid. 

Temperatures remain low throughout the year, with summer (December to February) averaging between 5°C and 12°C (41°F to 54°F), while winter (June to August) sees temperatures dropping close to or below freezing. Snowfall is common in winter, often covering forests, mountains, and coastlines, creating characteristic winter landscapes. However, during the summer months, snowfall is less frequent, though not entirely absent due to the region’s unpredictable weather. The strong winds, often exceeding 100 km/h (62 mph), intensify the cold and contribute to the island’s ever-changing conditions.

Overall, Tierra del Fuego’s climate is harsh yet fascinating, shaping its unique landscapes and wildlife. Travelers should always be prepared for sudden weather shifts, as sunshine, rain, snow, and strong winds can all occur within a single day.

Economy

The economy of Tierra del Fuego differs on each side of the border. In Argentina, it relies primarily on sheep farming, tourism, fishing, and the electronics industry, with several factories operating in the region. In Chile, sheep farming, fishing, and tourism are the main economic activities. Both countries exploit natural resources in the region, including oil and gas extraction. Additionally, Chile has several large-scale renewable energy projects in their early stages. 

Tourist Attractions

The Tierra del Fuego archipelago boasts a stunning array of tourist attractions. On the Argentine side, the resort town of Ushuaia serves as a gateway for Antarctic expeditions and offers activities like trekking in Tierra del Fuego National Park and sailing through the Beagle Channel.

On the Chilean side, Porvenir, Karukinka Park, and other remote national parks attract visitors with their pristine landscapes and rich biodiversity. A visit to Puerto Williams and its surroundings, trekking the mountainous Dientes de Navarino circuit, and sailing through the Beagle Channel and the Avenue of Glaciers are truly breathtaking experiences.

Sport Fishing

Sport fishing is a popular activity in Tierra del Fuego, drawing anglers from all over the world. The island's rivers and lakes are renowned for their trout and salmon. In Argentina, the Rio Grande is considered one of the best places in the world for brown trout fishing. In Chile, notable fishing spots include Lago Blanco, Rio Grande, Rio Azopardo, Lago Fagnano and Lago Deseado.

Curiosities and Interesting Facts

• The name "Tierra del Fuego" was given by explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1520, inspired by the fires lit by the indigenous people along the coast.

• Tierra del Fuego was originally inhabited by the indigenous Selk'nam and Yamana (the latter also known as Yaghan).

• Puerto Williams, located on Navarino Island in the same archipelago, is the world's southernmost city and a key port for cruises heading to Antarctica.

• The island is home to diverse wildlife, including guanacos, Fuegian foxes, and a wide variety of seabirds.

• Tierra del Fuego is a fascinating destination that blends history, nature, and adventure, offering a unique experience at the edge of the world.

• To explore more breathtaking destinations in the region, check out Patagonia Chile, Best Tourist Places, where you'll find the most stunning landscapes and experiences.