Puerto Almanza King Crab Cooking Tour & Lunch from Ushuaia

Summary

Hands-On King Crab Culinary Adventure in Tierra del Fuego

You’ll cook fresh Fuegian king crab with locals in Puerto Almanza, explore quiet trails along the Beagle Channel, enjoy seafood lunch with real fishermen’s catch, then relax by a fire with homemade treats—all just outside Ushuaia.

What’s the experience like?

The drive out of Ushuaia felt like slipping into another world—clouds hanging low, the road hugging the edge of the forest. We passed tiny fishing shacks and could smell wood smoke as we rolled into Puerto Almanza, a quiet village right on the Beagle Channel. Our guide, Martín, pointed out where the old sawmill used to stand—just a patch of wildflowers now. It’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it.

Walking the crab route, I noticed how the air changed—crisp and salty, with a hint of seaweed. The path wound through mossy trees until we reached a spot where you could see crab pots bobbing in the water. Locals waved from their boats; one guy even shouted something about “la centolla más grande” he’d caught that morning. We snapped some photos—the kind you only get when the light’s just right and there’s nobody else around.

The hike to Cascada del Duende was gentle enough for everyone in our group (even my aunt with her stroller managed fine). The sound of water got louder as we walked, and suddenly there it was—a small waterfall tucked behind ferns. Not huge, but somehow perfect for this place.

Back at the kitchen, our chef Ana greeted us with an apron and a grin. She showed us how to crack open a live king crab (don’t worry—they walk you through it), mix up local herbs for seasoning, and even whip up a dessert using berries she picked that morning. I still remember how my hands smelled like lemon and sea after handling the crab meat.

Lunch was served right by a window overlooking the channel—honestly, I lost track of time watching fishing boats drift past. The king crab came out steaming, either whole or gratinéed with cheese if you wanted. There were also mussels and fresh fish from that same morning’s catch. Everything tasted clean and simple—no fancy sauces needed.

After eating way too much, we wandered down to an old meeting point where Selk’nam and Yámana peoples once gathered. You could hear seabirds overhead—someone spotted a condor circling above—and see wildflowers growing between rocks by the shore. On the way back, we warmed up by a fire with hot chocolate and homemade tortilla chips roasted on sticks (Ana swears hers are best). The chocolate melted just enough to be messy but perfect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Gastronomic Experience in Puerto Almanza

• Hotel pickup from Kaitek Viajes office
• Walk crab route and explore Puerto Almanza
• Walk to Cascada del Duende waterfall
• Cooking class and lunch with local chef
• Visit historic Selk'nam meeting point and snack by fire
• Return to Ushuaia

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes! The walks are easy-going and strollers or wheelchairs work fine. Kids love helping in the kitchen too.

Do I need cooking experience?

Nope—you’ll get step-by-step help from our chef. It’s fun whether you’re new or know your way around seafood.

Are vegetarian options available?

Please let us know ahead of time—we can arrange alternatives based on what’s fresh locally.

How far is Puerto Almanza from Ushuaia?

It’s about 75 km away—a scenic drive that takes roughly 1 hour 15 minutes each way.

What’s included

Your ride from Ushuaia is covered (air-conditioned vehicle), plus all food: king crab main dish (whole or gratin), dessert, drinks (with/without alcohol), hands-on cooking class led by a local chef, bilingual guide (Spanish/English/Portuguese), plus snacks by the fire before heading back home.