Museo Acatushún, Estancia Harberton, Ushuaia - Image 1
1 / 10

Museo Acatushún Estancia Harberton Ushuaia

4.5
·623 reviews·Ushuaia, Argentina

Discover a unique museum showcasing ethically sourced marine mammal and bird skeletons, with passionate guides and stunning coastal views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime tours

Best light for exhibits

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Museo Acatushún, Estancia Harberton, Ushuaia - Image 1

Museo Acatushún Estancia Harberton Ushuaia

Best Time

Daytime tours

Best light for exhibits

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover a unique museum showcasing ethically sourced marine mammal and bird skeletons, with passionate guides and stunning coastal views.

4.5
(623 reviews)

"A truly extraordinary and unparalleled adventure, leaving an indelible mark on one's memory."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book a Guided Tour

Highly recommended! Volunteer guides share incredible knowledge about marine mammals and conservation. :speech_balloon:

Allow ample time

Don't rush! The museum is packed with information and the setting is beautiful. :clock:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Marine Mammal Skeletons

Marine Mammal Skeletons

Exhibition Hall

Marvel at an extensive collection of whale, dolphin, and seal skeletons, all ethically sourced and meticulously displayed.

Avian Wonders

Avian Wonders

Exhibition Hall

Discover a fascinating array of bird skeletons, highlighting the diverse avian life of Tierra del Fuego.

Working Laboratory

Working Laboratory

Laboratory Area

See firsthand the ongoing work of volunteer scientists studying and conserving local marine species.

Scenic Coastal Setting

Scenic Coastal Setting

Museum Grounds

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Beagle Channel and surrounding landscapes from the museum's exquisite location.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Museo Acatushún

This unique museum showcases marine mammal and bird skeletons, ethically sourced from local shores. Volunteer biologists lead tours, offering deep insights into conservation efforts. Allow ample time to absorb the fascinating exhibits and the stunning natural surroundings.

Getting to the Museum

Museo Acatushún is located outside Ushuaia, accessible via an excellent gravel road. Consider arranging transportation in advance, as public transport options may be limited. The scenic drive itself is part of the experience.

Best Times

When
Daytime tours
Why
Best light for exhibits
Crowd
Medium
When
Anytime
Why
Knowledgeable guides
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

La ptagonia argentina se ha robado mi corazon, estuve 4 dias en ushuaia y 5 dias en calafate 🤍
@alexandra_traveler
534.4K likes • 5.8M views

Book a Guided Tour

Highly recommended! Volunteer guides share incredible knowledge about marine mammals and conservation. :speech_balloon:

Allow ample time

Don't rush! The museum is packed with information and the setting is beautiful. :clock:

Desde Buenos Aires hasta el fin del mundo… Así suena y se siente la magia de la Patagonia Argentina. 📍 Bariloche, El Calafate, Ushuaia, el imponente glaciar Perito Moreno, paisajes nevados y el icónico Tren del Fin del Mundo. Todo en un solo viaje lleno de emociones. 🌍 Viaja con Cristyviajes y descubre lo que significa llegar al fin del mundo... y querer volver. ✈️ Escríbenos y arma tu próxima ave...
@cristyviajes
466.9K likes • 5.3M views
El hotel más lujoso y extravagante de la Patagonia argentina @Visit Argentina @turismotdf @arakur_ushuaia #ushuaia #patagonia #hotel
@morganmirabal
120.7K likes • 1M views

Ask questions!

The volunteer scientists are happy to share their expertise. Engage with them! :bulb:

Enjoy the drive

The gravel road to the museum is scenic. Take your time and enjoy the journey. :car:

🚂 TREN DEL FIN DEL MUNDO 🚂 Uno de los imperdibles de Tierra del Fuego es este Tren @eltrendelfindelmundo . Pero para mí en invierno tiene una magia especial 🤩 se ve todo todo blanco y paisajes de película 🥹❤️❄️ COMPARTÍ SI TE GUSTÓ ESTE REEL ✨ 📍No es Narnia. Es Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina 🇦🇷 🪵 este recorrido sobre vías y con locomotoras a vapor te lleva por la historia de la ciudad: en 1...
@pasaje.en.mano
81.5K likes • 1.5M views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book a Guided Tour

Highly recommended! Volunteer guides share incredible knowledge about marine mammals and conservation. :speech_balloon:

Allow ample time

Don't rush! The museum is packed with information and the setting is beautiful. :clock:

Ask questions!

The volunteer scientists are happy to share their expertise. Engage with them! :bulb:

Enjoy the drive

The gravel road to the museum is scenic. Take your time and enjoy the journey. :car:

Ethically sourced exhibits

Learn about how specimens are found naturally washed ashore. :ocean:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(623 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Museo Acatushún for its fascinating collection of marine mammal and bird skeletons, ethically sourced and meticulously displayed. The knowledgeable and passionate volunteer guides are a major highlight, offering in-depth insights and engaging tours. The museum's stunning coastal setting further enhances the experience, making it a highly recommended and worthwhile visit for those interested in natural history and conservation.

"This small museum full of collected marine mammal and bird skeletons was very interesting. The volunteer guides provided tours in English and Spanish. The guide I had was quite knowledgeable as he is finishing his studies on marine mammals. I learned a lot, including the difference between whales and dolphins and porpoises, and much more. I definitely recommend this museum. Oh and the setting and scenery is exquisite."

Kimberley G

"The guides (both English & Spanish) were super nice & provided lots of information about the mammals under the sea. We were able to get up close & see the differences in the species of whales, dolphins, seals, & so much more. All the skeletons we saw were found right in Ushuaia (outside the hippo) so that was really cool to hear about. The length of the tour was perfect to where we weren't overwhelmed with information but learned a lot about the mammals.

The museum is run by volunteer biologists so they truly care about what they are showing people & the information they share!"

Sam Hamit

"Really interesting place. Off the beaten track but well worth the trip. Learnt a huge amount from very nice knowledgeable hosts. Wonderful."

William Beloe

What People Like

Fascinating skeleton collection
Knowledgeable volunteer guides
Ethical specimen sourcing

What People Dislike

Limited public transport

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located outside of Ushuaia and is best reached by car via an excellent gravel road. Many visitors rent a car or arrange for private transportation. The drive offers beautiful coastal scenery. Reddit

Public transportation options to the museum are limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or consider a taxi or organized tour for convenient access. TikTok

The road leading to Museo Acatushún is a well-maintained gravel road, offering a pleasant and scenic drive along the coast. Reddit

Museo Acatushún is situated a short drive from Ushuaia's city center, making it an accessible excursion for a few hours. TikTok

While possible, walking to Museo Acatushún from Ushuaia is a significant distance and not typically recommended for most visitors due to the road conditions and length. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the museum's official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on operating times. TikTok

Admission fees are generally reasonable, reflecting the museum's non-profit status and reliance on volunteer staff. Check their website for current pricing. Reddit

Advance booking is usually not required, but it's always a good idea to confirm, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability. TikTok

Information on discounts for students, seniors, or children is typically available on the museum's website or can be inquired about upon arrival. TikTok

Tickets can usually be purchased directly at the museum's entrance upon arrival. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum features a vast collection of ethically sourced marine mammal and bird skeletons, offering insights into local biodiversity and conservation. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are highly recommended and are led by knowledgeable volunteer biologists who provide in-depth information. Tours are available in English and Spanish. Reddit+1

A visit usually takes about 1-2 hours, depending on your interest level and whether you take a guided tour. Reddit

Yes, children can find the exhibits fascinating, especially the large skeletons. The educational aspect is also beneficial. TikTok

It's one of the world's most significant repositories of marine mammal specimens, functioning as a working lab for conservation research. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted inside the museum for personal use, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions. Instagram

The impressive skeletons, the laboratory in action, and the stunning coastal views surrounding the museum offer excellent photo opportunities. Instagram

While generally allowed, avoid using flash photography that might disturb the exhibits or researchers. Instagram

Expect to capture unique shots of marine life skeletons, scientific research in progress, and the dramatic Patagonian landscape. TikTok

Absolutely! The museum's unique exhibits and location provide memorable photographic subjects that showcase the wonders of Tierra del Fuego. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Museo Acatushún offers a unique and educational experience for families. The large skeletons of whales, dolphins, and seals are incredibly captivating for children, sparking their imagination and curiosity about marine life. The volunteer guides are often adept at explaining concepts in a way that is understandable and engaging for younger visitors. TikTok

Consider visiting during a time when tours are available in your preferred language to maximize the learning experience. The scenic drive to the museum can also be an adventure in itself. Pack snacks and drinks, as on-site facilities might be limited. The hands-on aspect of seeing real specimens, rather than just pictures, makes it a memorable outing for kids. Reddit

📚 Enthusiasts of Marine Biology & Conservation

For those with a deep interest in marine biology and conservation, Museo Acatushún is an absolute must-visit. The museum's status as a working laboratory, where volunteer scientists meticulously study ethically sourced specimens, provides unparalleled insight into ongoing research. You'll have the chance to learn about rare species and the challenges of protecting marine ecosystems in Patagonia. Reddit

Take full advantage of the guided tours, as the volunteer guides are often researchers themselves and can offer in-depth discussions. Don't hesitate to ask questions; they are passionate about sharing their knowledge and the importance of their work. This is a rare opportunity to connect directly with the science and conservation efforts happening at the end of the world. Reddit

🚗 Road Trip Adventurers

If you're exploring Patagonia by car, the drive to Museo Acatushún is a delightful part of the journey. The well-maintained gravel road offers stunning coastal views, making the trip itself an experience. It's a perfect stop to break up a longer drive and immerse yourself in the unique natural environment of Tierra del Fuego. TikTok+1

Combine your visit with other nearby attractions or simply enjoy the scenic route. The museum's remote yet accessible location adds to the sense of adventure. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for gravel roads, and enjoy the freedom of exploring this beautiful part of Argentina at your own pace. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Ethical Collection of Specimens

Museo Acatushún stands out for its commitment to ethical sourcing of its extensive collection. Unlike many museums that acquire specimens through hunting or other means, this museum's exhibits are derived from animals that have naturally washed ashore along the coast of Tierra del Fuego. This distinctive geographical advantage means that deceased marine mammals and birds are found in close proximity to the museum, allowing for their respectful collection and study without causing harm to living populations. This practice underscores the museum's dedication to conservation and understanding the natural life cycle of these incredible creatures. Reddit

The process involves meticulous cleaning and preparation of the remains by dedicated volunteer scientists. This hands-on approach not only preserves the specimens but also provides invaluable data for ongoing research into marine biology and conservation efforts in the region. Visitors often express admiration for this ethical approach, finding it a more meaningful way to connect with the natural world. Reddit

This method of collection is a testament to the museum's philosophy, turning natural occurrences into opportunities for scientific discovery and public education. It allows visitors to appreciate the grandeur of marine life while understanding the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Reddit

Insights from Volunteer Guides

A significant highlight of visiting Museo Acatushún is the opportunity to learn from its passionate volunteer guides. These individuals are often biologists or students deeply involved in marine mammal research, bringing a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to their tours. They provide detailed explanations about the different species, their habitats, and the challenges they face in the wild. Reddit+1

Visitors frequently praise the guides for their patience, clarity, and willingness to answer questions. Whether explaining the anatomical differences between whales and dolphins or discussing the conservation efforts underway, the guides make the complex science accessible and engaging. Their personal anecdotes and insights into the research process add a unique and enriching dimension to the museum experience. Reddit

Engaging with these experts offers a deeper understanding of the marine ecosystem of Tierra del Fuego and the importance of preserving it. The personal connection forged with the guides often leaves a lasting impression on visitors, making the museum visit not just educational but also inspiring. Reddit

The Stunning Patagonian Setting

Beyond its remarkable exhibits, Museo Acatushún is blessed with an absolutely breathtaking location. Situated on the shores of the Beagle Channel, the museum offers panoramic views of the rugged Patagonian landscape, including dramatic coastlines and distant mountains. The journey to the museum itself, along a scenic gravel road, provides a taste of the wild beauty that defines this region. TikTok+1

The natural beauty surrounding the museum enhances the overall visitor experience. Visitors often remark on the exquisite setting, finding it a perfect complement to the fascinating displays within. The crisp, clean air and the vast, open vistas contribute to a sense of tranquility and awe, making it a truly memorable destination. Reddit

Whether you're an avid nature lover or simply appreciate stunning scenery, the location of Museo Acatushún provides a perfect backdrop for reflection and appreciation of the natural world. It’s a place where scientific curiosity meets the raw, untamed beauty of the end of the world. TikTok