AdventureSmith Explorations
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antarctica climate

Temperatures (Dec - Feb) 20 - 50 degrees F  

Antarctic Climate Antarctic weather is a lesson in extremes.  Antarctica is the world’s coldest, windiest and driest continent. The lowest Antarctic temperature ever recorded -129F. This is the coldest temperature ever recorded on Earth.  Wintertime temperatures near the South Pole range from -40 to -94F and winds can reach up to 200 miles per hour. However, during the summer months the winds abate considerably and the weather is surprisingly comfortable, averaging between 20 and 50F.  Summertime also means 18-24 hours of sunlight which allows life to flourish for a brief summer period.  Long days also allow extensive exploration by small ship cruise to Antarctica.  Antarctic weather allows for a short season of cruising from November to March each year.  

Antarctic Seasons
November - early December (Late Spring / early summer in Antarctica): Colder temperatures prevail with more ice. Scenery is pristine, white, and otherworldly with frequent giant iceberg and pack ice encounters. Courting season for penguins begins. Seals become visible on ice flows. Elephant and fur seals establish breading territories. Spring wildflowers are in bloom in the Falklands and South Georgia.  

Mid-December and January (mid-Summer in Antarctica): Typically, these are Antarctica's warmest months. Days get longer with increased amounts of sunshine. Penguin chicks are abundant. Seal pups become visible on South Georgia & Falklands. Receding ice allows for more inland exploration.  

February and early March (late Summer in Antarctica): Whale sightings are at their peak. More snow-free beaches allow for sightings of large penguin rookeries. Penguin chicks start to fledge. Receding ice allows ships to explore further south.  

Ushuaia Weather Ushuaia is one of the southern-most cities in the world with a maritime climate that is tempered by in the influence of coastal mountains and the ocean.  The snow free summer is October through May with average lows of 40 and average highs of 60F.  This is the best climate in Ushuaia for hiking and trekking.  Winter sees colder weather with more snow.