Best Time to Visit Antarctica

Climate in Antarctica

With average temperatures of -94°F and -40°F during August – the peak of winter – the climate of Antarctica is the harshest of all continents. It does get warmer during the summer months with average temperatures of 5°F and – 49°F in February, which is considered the warmest month of the region. However, temperatures are somewhat higher in the coastal areas due: between -25°F to 5°F in winter, and 23°F to 41°F in the summer months. With such extreme climatic conditions, it is no wonder that Antarctica is the driest region on our planet, almost entirely a desert. The land experiences six months of daylight in the summer months of October to March, and the rest of the year is spent in darkness. It’s also where the lowest ever temperature on earth was recorded in 2018, -144.04°F, beating the previous record of -128.56°F from 1983!

What to Pack for Antarctica

Covered by ice approximately a mile thick, it’s safe to say Antarctica is the coldest place on earth. Temperatures often drop to as low as -70°C. With no precipitation, Antarctica is a dry place too and is technically classified as a desert. So as you can imagine; what one wears is of the utmost importance, be it day or night.

Suggested Clothing

The average temperature in the Antarctic Peninsula area during the austral summer is about 32°F, although sometimes it may feel a little lower because of the wind chill factor. For this reason, it is best to wear several layers of light, warm clothing. The suggested clothing for Antarctica is very similar to that recommended for skiing: thermal underwear, a couple of warm and wicking mid-layers, and windproof and waterproof jacket and pants as the outer layer – essentially a layered system with an outer layer that is waterproof. The air between the layers provides additional insulation. Fleeces are very suitable and waterproof pants for the landing are essential. You will also need a hat, a scarf, waterproof and insulated gloves, and sunglasses with high UV protection. We offer a complimentary packer to our guests.

Waterproof Boots

You will need to stay as warm and dry as possible all the time. Therefore, correct footwear is very important. As most landings in Antarctica are “wet landings”, the best footwear is knee-high waterproof boots. You will not need to carry them with you since your air cruiser will provide you with a pair of thermal rubber boots before arriving in Antarctica. Sturdy walking shoes or sneakers with a good grip sole for the slippery deck, and rubber boots will be provided. Please note that we provide rubber boots for shore excursion activities during the course of the tour.

Face Protection

You will also need good sunblock lotion for your face. Good quality UV filtering sunglasses are essential. Glacier glasses have leather flaps at the sides to stop the light from passing through. Due to the high reflectance of UV radiation, you will also need good sunblock lotion for your face (this means a high protection factor of perhaps 30 and above) and lip balm.

Photography

To see the wildlife you should have a good pair of lightweight binoculars (the suggested magnification is 7× or 8×). If you are passionate about photography, do not forget a good zoom lens to shoot wildlife while avoiding close approaches. Also, take with you a good supply of memory cards and spare batteries since cold temperatures can reduce their lifespan.

As a side note, don’t forget to carry all your personal medications and a suitable backpack for your belongings during shore excursions. Lightweight disposable rain gear will not endure more than one landing, so please bring high quality, expedition-weight waterproof pants.