Faro Les Éclaireurs

Faro Les Éclaireurs – Ushuaia, Argentina

Overview

The Faro Les Éclaireurs, often nicknamed the “Lighthouse at the End of the World,” is one of the most photographed landmarks in Ushuaia and a symbol of Tierra del Fuego. Located on a small rocky islet in the Beagle Channel, this striking red-and-white striped lighthouse has been guiding sailors since 1920. While it is not open to the public, boat tours bring visitors close to its base, offering breathtaking views of the lighthouse, snow-capped mountains, and marine wildlife. The Faro Les Éclaireurs embodies the spirit of exploration and adventure in the southernmost city in the world.

Why Visit

• See the famous “Lighthouse at the End of the World” up close on a boat tour
• Enjoy stunning views of the Beagle Channel and surrounding Andes peaks
• Spot wildlife such as sea lions, cormorants, and penguins on nearby islets
• Learn about the maritime history of Tierra del Fuego and Ushuaia
• Capture one of the most iconic photo opportunities in southern Argentina

Highlights

• The Lighthouse: A 10-meter (33-foot) red-and-white tower still in operation today
• Boat Tours: Excursions from Ushuaia that circle the lighthouse and nearby islands
• Scenic Backdrop: Panoramas of snowcapped mountains and dramatic skies
• Wildlife Watching: Sea lions, fur seals, and colonies of imperial cormorants
• Symbol of Ushuaia: The lighthouse has become a cultural and touristic emblem of the region

History & Cultural Significance

The Faro Les Éclaireurs was built in 1920 to improve navigation through the treacherous waters of the Beagle Channel. Its name, which means “The Scouts” in French, comes from the nearby group of islets. Contrary to popular belief, this is not the same lighthouse that inspired Jules Verne’s novel The Lighthouse at the End of the World—that one, San Juan de Salvamento, was located further east on Isla de los Estados. Nonetheless, Faro Les Éclaireurs has become deeply associated with Ushuaia’s identity as the world’s southernmost city. The lighthouse still operates with an automatic electric system, flashing every ten seconds to guide passing ships.

Typical Costs & Tickets

While you cannot enter the lighthouse itself, boat tours from Ushuaia provide access to the area. Standard tours cost around $50–$80 USD per person and last 2–3 hours. Premium catamaran tours with wildlife stops can cost up to $120 USD. Some excursions combine visits to the lighthouse with Isla de los Lobos (Sea Lion Island) and bird colonies. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the peak summer season (December–February).

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Faro Les Éclaireurs is during the southern summer (November–March), when weather conditions are milder and wildlife is abundant. Summer offers long daylight hours and calmer seas, perfect for boat tours. Autumn (April–May) brings colorful foliage but cooler weather, while winter (June–August) offers a dramatic atmosphere with snow-covered landscapes, though boat tours are less frequent. Mornings often provide clearer skies, while late afternoon tours capture beautiful golden-hour light on the lighthouse and mountains.

Nearby Experiences

A visit to Faro Les Éclaireurs is often combined with other Ushuaia experiences. Boat tours typically stop at Isla de los Lobos, home to playful sea lion colonies, and Isla de los Pájaros, where cormorants and seabirds nest. Longer excursions may continue toward Martillo Island to see Magellanic and Gentoo penguins. On land, visitors can explore Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego or ride the End of the World Train. Ushuaia’s museums, including the Maritime Museum, also provide rich context about the lighthouse and the Beagle Channel’s exploration history.

Travel Tips

• Dress warmly, as winds on the Beagle Channel can be strong even in summer
• Bring binoculars or a zoom lens for wildlife and lighthouse photography
• Choose a smaller boat tour for a more intimate experience with the lighthouse and wildlife
• Book tours in advance during December–February, Ushuaia’s busiest months
• Pair your lighthouse visit with a stop at the Ushuaia sign for iconic photos

Fun Facts & Local Legends

• The lighthouse is often mistaken for the one in Jules Verne’s novel, though that was located on Isla de los Estados
• Its red-and-white stripes make it highly photogenic, especially against the blue Beagle Channel
• The light flashes every 10 seconds and can be seen up to 22 nautical miles away
• “Les Éclaireurs” refers to the group of islets, not the lighthouse itself