End of the World Train
Tren del Fin del Mundo
A scenic narrow-gauge railway that retraces the historic route used to transport lumber and prisoners, now taking visitors through pristine wilderness to Tierra del Fuego National Park. The restored vintage train offers a unique and nostalgic way to experience the region's history and natural beauty.
Things to do
- End of the World Train Ride — Board the restored narrow-gauge locomotive for a 40-minute journey through Tierra del Fuego National Park following the original 1909 route used for timber transport.
- Peat Bog Exploration — Walk through the unique Magellanic peat bogs visible from the train, where spongy terrain and stunted southern beech trees create an otherworldly landscape.
- Río Pipo Viewpoint — Visit the scenic stopping point where the train halts at the Río Pipo, offering photo opportunities of the river cutting through the Fuegian forest.
- Prison History Museum — Explore exhibits at the station detailing the history of the former penal colony and the convicts who built the original railway line.
- Southern Beech Forest Walk — Hike through native Nothofagus (southern beech) forests accessible from the train route, where twisted trees and thick moss create a primordial atmosphere.
- Tierra del Fuego National Park Integration — Use the train as an entry point to the national park and continue exploring hiking trails, coastal views, and the southernmost regions.
Food to try
- Centolla (King Crab) — Fresh Patagonian king crab caught locally and typically served grilled or in creamy sauces at restaurants near the train station.
- Cordero Fueguino (Fuegian Lamb) — Tender lamb raised on Tierra del Fuego's windswept grasslands, traditionally slow-roasted and served as a regional specialty.
- Calafate Berry Desserts — Sweet treats and preserves made from the local calafate berry, a dark purple fruit with a slightly sweet and tart flavor unique to Patagonia.
- Freshwater Trout — Rainbow and brown trout from the region's pristine rivers, often prepared simply grilled or smoked at local lodges.
- Empanadas Fueguinas — Local pastry pockets filled with lamb, onions, and spices, reflecting the gaucho and indigenous heritage of the region.
Local customs & good to know
- Respect Train Schedule — The train operates on a strict timetable with limited daily departures, so book well in advance and arrive early to ensure your spot on this popular attraction.
- Dress for Extreme Weather — Tierra del Fuego's weather is notoriously unpredictable with strong winds and sudden temperature changes; bring waterproof jackets and layers even in summer.
- Honor Indigenous and Prison History — The railway's past includes both the displacement of indigenous Yámana people and use as a penal transport route; approach the experience with awareness of this complex heritage.
- Spanish is Primary Language — While some staff speak English, basic Spanish phrases are helpful, and tour guides provide richer historical context when you can understand their native language explanations.