Isla de los Estados

Isla de los Estados is a rugged, largely uninhabited Argentine island lying off the eastern tip of Tierra del Fuego in the South Atlantic. It is noted for its remoteness, dramatic coastline and historical associations with lighthouses and shipwrecks.

The island offers steep cliffs, sheltered coves, seabird colonies and limited landing sites used by expedition ships. Naturalists and small-number expedition cruises visit for wildlife observation and to view historic sites along the coast.

The island has a history of lighthouse construction and maritime rescue activity tied to the hazardous waters surrounding Tierra del Fuego and has been referenced in literature and maritime accounts. It has no significant permanent civilian population.

Located east of the main islands of Tierra del Fuego, the island is administered by Tierra del Fuego Province, Argentina, and lies in the subantarctic waters of the South Atlantic.

• Access limitations: Landing and on-shore access are usually limited to expedition cruises and licensed vessels because seas can be rough and the island is largely uninhabited.

What to See #

• Historic lighthouse site: A remote lighthouse and associated ruins on the island's eastern promontory that inspired Jules Verne's novel "The Lighthouse at the End of the World"; access to the site is often subject to weather and conservation limits.