Ushuaia, Argentina, known as "the end of the world," is witnessing a tourism boom as cruises to Antarctica gain popularity. Around 90% of these journeys depart from this southern city, bringing in crowds eager to see stunning landscapes and wildlife, including iconic penguins.
Last year, Ushuaia welcomed approximately 111,500 travelers—an increase from merely 35,500 a decade ago. Tourists often spend a night or two in town before their adventures, contributing to a growing demand for accommodations amid already high living costs for locals.
While the influx of visitors is financially beneficial for Ushuaia's 83,000 residents, it's also causing strain on resources and escalating housing shortages. Local community leaders, like Julio Lovece from the Ushuaia Foundation XXI, stress the importance of developing tourism that prioritizes the needs of locals while capitalizing on Ushuaia’s unique allure.
As tourism continues to rise, the challenge remains: how to maintain Ushuaia's charm without compromising its community and environment. The world is watching this “end of the world” city navigate these pressing issues to achieve sustainable growth.
Last year, Ushuaia welcomed approximately 111,500 travelers—an increase from merely 35,500 a decade ago. Tourists often spend a night or two in town before their adventures, contributing to a growing demand for accommodations amid already high living costs for locals.
While the influx of visitors is financially beneficial for Ushuaia's 83,000 residents, it's also causing strain on resources and escalating housing shortages. Local community leaders, like Julio Lovece from the Ushuaia Foundation XXI, stress the importance of developing tourism that prioritizes the needs of locals while capitalizing on Ushuaia’s unique allure.
As tourism continues to rise, the challenge remains: how to maintain Ushuaia's charm without compromising its community and environment. The world is watching this “end of the world” city navigate these pressing issues to achieve sustainable growth.
