Perched at downtown’s western edge, with spectacular Beagle Channel views, HI affiliate Torre al Sur Youth Hostel (Gobernador Paz 1437, tel. 02901/43-0745, www.torrealsur.com.ar, US$14–15 pp dorm) has been one of Argentina’s finest backpacker facilities, but overcrowding and noise have meant mixed reviews recently. Rooms have two or four beds as well as lockers; there’s hot water, Internet access, and free luggage storage.

The HI affiliate Albergue Los Cormoranes (Kamshen 788, tel. 02902/42-3459, www.loscormoranes.com, US$13–16 pp dorm, US$53–66 d with private bath, with breakfast) has attractive common areas, including a wind-sheltered garden, and better sleeping facilities than Torre al Sur. Most easily reached by climbing Don Bosco to its end and then taking a left, it’s about eight steep blocks north of the waterfront (arrival transfers are free).

The more central Albergue Cruz del Sur (Deloqui 636, tel. 02901/43-4099, www.xdelsur.com.ar, US$16 pp dorm) is an independent hostel with four-, six-, or eight-bed rooms; there are also cable TV, Internet access, two kitchens, and a free initial pickup. Guests also get a series of discounts and specials at various services around town.

Half a block from the Lider bus terminal, the fast-expanding Freestyle Backpackers Hostel (Gobernador Paz 866, tel. 02901/43-2874, www.ushuaiafreestyle.com, US$16–19 pp dorm) is a gleaming purpose-built hostel with youthful energy, a spacious lounge and kitchen facilities, and secondary amenities including laundry service and parking.