Know Before You Go

Weather & Climate in Antarctica

Antarctica

On average, Antarctica is the coldest, driest and windiest continent on Earth. Weather conditions are notoriously unpredictable, and wind chill can make temperatures feel significantly colder than they are. The temperature ranges provided reflect long-term monthly averages for coastal regions, such as the Antarctic Peninsula, where most voyages operate. While the environment is extreme, travelers are likely to experience milder conditions—especially during the austral summer—than the continent’s harshest lows. Layered clothing and windproof outerwear remain essential for comfort in this remote, ever-changing environment.

Chile

If you're departing from Puerto Natales, expect cool and changeable weather year-round. The city has a subpolar oceanic climate, with average summer highs around 60°F and nighttime lows dipping into the 40s. Winter temperatures typically range from the upper 30s during the day to below freezing at night. Rain is frequent, and strong winds are common—especially from spring through summer. Be prepared with layered clothing, windproof outerwear, and rain protection.

If you're departing from Punta Arenas, expect a tundra-like climate—despite the city’s relatively low latitude. The nearby ocean tempers seasonal extremes, though day-to-day conditions can shift quickly. Summers are especially windy. Since 1986, the city has experienced elevated UV levels due to ozone depletion, making sun protection essential—even on cloudy days. Sunscreen is highly recommended for all exposed skin.

Argentina

If spending time in Ushuaia, expect frequent precipitation—about 146 days per year—along with persistent clouds and fog. Humidity hovers around 80 percent. Summer temperatures are mild, with daytime highs near 57°F and nighttime lows around 41°F. Warmer days above 68°F are rare, and night frost can occur in any season. Days below 50°F are common, so dress in layers and come prepared for sudden shifts in weather.

Average Monthly Temperatures


Antarctic Peninsula 

Month

Average Temp [High / Low]

January

36 °F / 28 °F

February

34 °F / 27 °F

March

32 °F / 24 °F

April

27 °F / 18 °F

May

21 °F / 10 °F

June

18 °F / 6 °F

July

19 °F / 6 °F

August

21 °F / 9 °F

September

27 °F / 18 °F

October

30 °F / 21 °F

November

32 °F / 24 °F

December

34 °F / 27 °F


Puerto Natales

Month

Average Temp [High / Low]

January

55 °F / 45 °F

February

55 °F / 45 °F

March

53 °F / 45 °F

April

49 °F / 42 °F

May

45 °F / 39 °F

June

41 °F / 36 °F

July

40 °F / 35 °F

August

41 °F / 36 °F

September

45 °F / 37 °F

October

49 °F / 39 °F

November

51 °F / 42 °F

December

53 °F / 43 °F


Punta Arenas 

Month

Average Temp [High / Low]

January

57 °F / 45 °F

February

56 °F / 45 °F

March

54 °F / 43 °F

April

48 °F / 38 °F

May

43 °F / 34 °F

June

39 °F / 30 °F

July

38 °F / 29 °F

August

41 °F / 31 °F

September

46 °F / 34 °F

October

50 °F / 37 °F

November

53 °F / 41 °F

December

56 °F / 44 °F


Ushuaia

Month

Average Temp [High / Low]

January

57 °F / 43 °F

February

57 °F / 43 °F

March

54 °F / 41 °F

April

48 °F / 36 °F

May

43 °F / 32 °F

June

39 °F / 28 °F

July

39 °F / 28 °F

August

41 °F / 30 °F

September

46 °F / 34 °F

October

50 °F / 36 °F

November

52 °F / 39 °F

December

55 °F / 41 °F

Experience Antarctica on These Adventures

Know Before You Go

Our Trips

Polar bears in Churchill by P. Endres

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North Rim of the Grand Canyon Cape Royal

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Penguins One After Another Jump Into The Blue Water From A Snow-white Iceberg, Antarctica

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