Ushuaia, Argentina, the world’s southernmost city, is bracing for a record-breaking peak tourist season amidst infrastructure and environmental concerns. The city is expected to welcome 70,000 cruise ship passengers across 130 vessel arrivals in the 2023-2024 season, a significant boost to local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tour operators. However, the influx is straining Ushuaia’s limited infrastructure, with concerns over the port’s capacity, potable water supply, and waste management. Municipal authorities are discussing potential solutions, such as expanding port facilities and upgrading wastewater treatment plants, but funding remains a major hurdle. Environmental groups, including the Fundación Vida Silvestre Argentina, are raising concerns about the impact of increased tourism on Tierra del Fuego’s fragile ecosystem, citing potential disturbances to penguin colonies and seabird nesting sites. The debate is centered on balancing economic benefits with responsible tourism practices, with growing pressure for stricter regulations on cruise ship operations. Meanwhile, Ushuaia is also positioning itself as a logistical hub for Antarctic research and operations, with the Argentine Antarctic Institute utilizing the city as a departure point for scientific expeditions. A new initiative aims to promote Ushuaia as a center for Antarctic biotechnology, attracting investment and innovation in fields like marine biology and pharmaceutical research. As the city prepares for the winter season, Cerro Castor, the world’s southernmost ski resort, is expecting a successful season due to good snowfall, but accessibility remains a concern. The local government is working to improve air connectivity, seeking to attract more international flights directly to Ushuaia International Airport. As Ushuaia navigates its growing global recognition as a destination for adventure tourism and Antarctic exploration, the city is at a crossroads, grappling with the opportunities and challenges presented by its unique geographical location.