Ushuaia has a real winter, and the cold months bring a different set of things to do from the southern summer. This snow day goes up into the valleys behind the town, where snow lies deep enough for a mix of activities in one outing: riding a snowmobile across open snowfields, walking in snowshoes through forest and across the snow, and sliding down a slope on a culipatin, a small sled that is a favourite of the island. The tour we link to is rated perfectly by around thirty travellers, runs about six hours and includes the equipment and instruction you need for each activity. It is a good fit for families with older children, couples and friends who enjoy being outdoors in the cold and who want something active that does not need previous experience. The season depends on snowfall, but winter in this part of the world typically runs from roughly June to September, with the best snow in July and August. Operators decide each day whether the snow is good enough, and may change the location or the schedule. Dress warmly, because the cold and the wind chill are real, and be prepared to follow safety instructions on the snowmobiles. It is one of the more distinctive experiences available in the off-season.
Understand how the day usually unfolds. After a pickup from your hotel, a vehicle takes the group up to the snow area, where you are given boots, gloves and clothing if required, and a briefing for each activity. Snowmobiling is done in a group behind a guide, at a sensible pace, with rules on speed and distance.
The snowshoe section is a walk at a relaxed pace, with time to look at the landscape and the trees, and the slide on the culipatin is a short and fun finish or a break between other activities. Operators may add a warm drink or a snack.
Prepare for cold and wet. Thermal base layers, warm socks, a waterproof jacket and trousers, a hat, gloves and sunglasses make the day comfortable, and a spare pair of gloves is a good idea. The sun reflects off the snow, so sun cream is useful. Check minimum age and any licence rules for the snowmobiles on the booking page, because requirements differ by operator and by whether you drive or ride. Bring a small bag for your phone and snacks, and keep valuables in the hotel.
Think about timing. If you want snow, travel in the cooler months and book a day or two ahead, because places are limited and snow conditions change. In the southern summer these tours do not run in the same way, and you would choose a boat trip or a hike instead.
It also pairs well with a visit to the Cerro Castor ski area on another day if you ski or board, and with a warming meal in town. A winter visit also means shorter daylight, so a morning pickup makes the most of the light.
What to expect
The experience
A guided snow day in the mountains behind Ushuaia, with a snowmobile ride, a snowshoe walk and a culipatin slide, plus briefing and equipment.
Best time
The cold months, roughly June to September, with the deepest snow usually in July and August; it depends on snowfall.
How long
About six hours including transfers and the three activities.
Tips
Wear thermal layers and waterproofs, bring spare gloves and sun protection, and check the age and licence rules for the snowmobiles.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Winter visitors who want an active day in the snow with no experience needed.
- Families
- Suits older children and teenagers; check minimum ages before booking.
- Couples
- A playful and scenic day that ends with a warm drink.
- Pair with
- A day at Cerro Castor, or a warming meal in town afterwards.
- Time needed
- Allow most of a day.
Good questions
When does it run?+
In the snow season, which typically runs from roughly June to September. It depends on snowfall, so check availability for your dates.
Do I need experience?+
No. Guides give a briefing for each activity, but follow rules on speed and distance carefully.
What is a culipatin?+
A small sled used for sliding down snowy slopes, a popular local winter activity.
What should I wear?+
Thermal layers, waterproofs, gloves, hat, sunglasses and warm socks. Ask the operator what clothing it supplies.
Is it suitable for children?+
Operators set minimum ages, particularly for the snowmobiles. Check the booking page.
