Yesterday was our day that we were going to the end of the world (as far as most people are concerned). We got up and headed to catch the public mini-bus the 20km southwest of Ushuaia to get to the Tierra del Fuego National Park. Despite it raining overnight, the sun was up and shining as we left. We got into the park and the bus let us off at the pier. On top of the pier was the post office and government building for the independent nation of Isla Redonda. It is an island out in the Beagle Channel that has one inhabitant, a pretty crazy old man who calls himself president of his own country. Argentina and Chile were originally disputing it and he kind of took over the island. Since he was Argentinian the Argentine government let him do what he wanted since him being there strengthened their claim compared to Chile. So we wandered into his office, and got our passports stamped (the visa is a picture of him stamping passports).
From there we started an 8km hike along the waterfront.It was relatively flat which was nice for a change.
On one of the beach spots Mike and Dominik found some dried out hermit crabs. They looked like a tasty snack.
Our good weather finally ended and we got a taste of normal Patagonia, rain and wind. Although the sun poked through for a little bit and we got a rainbow right over the water.
We stopped at the park cafeteria for a hot lunch and to get out of the elements We continued on another 3km hike through the rain with some of it along a road.
But shortly after this the sun broke through, the rain stopped, and the wind died down. Right in time for us to make it to the End of the World viewpoint.
It is notable as the end of the world as it is the end of the southernmost road in Argentina and the world, which is the end of the Pan American Highway.
And you know what is at the end of the Pan American Highway?
A fox. It just sits on the road, is friendly to people, and welcomes them to the end of the world.
We got the bus back to the hotel, and grabbed a shower before getting ready for our end of the trip party and dinner. We all piled into Neil’s room for some beer, wine, and champagne before heading off to the restaurant for our final dinner. The specialty is seafood filled ravioli (dyed with squid ink). Even with all the steak and malbec, this was the best meal we’ve had here.
We went out to a bar after and had a good night all around. It is sad saying goodbye to new friends, but some are coming to Antarctica, and we’ll be in touch with the rest.
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