Friday, February 6, 2004
Ushuaia, Argentina
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On the very tip of South America, Ushuaia is surrounded on three sides by dramatic peaks. The area is characterized by the amazing scenery of the Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego, with magnificent mountains, hanging glaciers, clear lakes and rushing rivers. Here, you may see wildlife ranging from Andean condors to beavers, sea lions and albatross.
This is the city at the bottom of the world, the southernmost town on Earth. A one-time whaling station and penal colony, Ushuaia is now a sunny gateway to the natural wonders of Tierra del Fuego, or "land of the fire," the region first explored by Magellan. Sunny refers to more than just the hospitality of the inhabitants; from December to February, Ushuaians enjoy up to 20 hours of sunshine a day. Towering, snow-covered mountains, deep green forests and sparkling seas combine to make this one of the unforgettable sights of a lifetime.
Beagle Channel Navigation & National Park
From the port of Ushuaia, (1 - 3) board a motorcoach to tour through Tierra del Fuego National Park. (1 - 7) This 150,000-acre park extends from the Beagle Channel in the south along the Chilean border to beyond Lago Fagnano in the north. Photo opportunities abound including Lapataia Bay and Lake Roca.
We disembarked the motorcoach at Lapataia Bay, where we boarded a catamaran for a 2 hour exploration of stunning landscapes and natural wonders that surround the town, said to be one of the most dramatic settings in the world. (1 - 9) Our journey on a comfortable catamaran provided an exhilarating outing as we cruised the Beagle Channel and out to Sea Wolves Island Nature Reserve.
Our trip took us into the waterways of the Beagle Channel past the Isla de los Pajaros (Bird Island) where many species of birds congregate, including a large colony of cormorants. (1, 2) Farther along we cruised around Isla de los Lobos (Sea Wolves Island). The rocky outcrop is home to a large number of seals and sea lions. (1 - 8) We also viewed the Faro del Fin del Mundo "Les Eclaireures" (the Light House at the End of the World), which stands on a outcrop of barren rock.
Afterward, we explored town lookin for knick knacks and photo ops. (1 - 4) After returning from our excursions, the ship set sail through some more beautiful scenery (1 - 3), Later that night, we had our first delightful Friday night service led by Julie, followed by dinner.
Useful Links
The Virtual Jewish History Tour - Argentina