Ushuaia Weather Month by Month: When to Go and What to Pack
In short
Ushuaia is cold year-round. In summer (December to February) highs are around 12 to 15 °C (54 to 59 °F) with up to 17 hours of daylight. In winter (June to August) highs are 3 to 5 °C (37 to 41 °F), with snow and about 7 hours of daylight. The best time depends on what you want: trekking in summer, snow in winter.
The line you'll hear most in Ushuaia is that you can get all four seasons in a single day. It's true: sun, wind, rain and even sleet can take turns within a few hours. Still, each season has a clear pattern worth knowing when choosing your dates and packing.
Ushuaia's weather at a glance
Approximate averages. They can vary quite a bit from year to year.
| Season | High | Low | Daylight | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| December to February (summer) | 12 to 15 °C (54-59 °F) | 4 to 6 °C (39-43 °F) | 16 to 17 h | Long days, wind, brief showers |
| March to May (autumn) | 6 to 11 °C (43-52 °F) | 0 to 4 °C (32-39 °F) | 9 to 12 h | Red and gold forests, fewer crowds |
| June to August (winter) | 3 to 5 °C (37-41 °F) | -3 to 0 °C (27-32 °F) | 7 to 9 h | Snow, little wind, white landscapes |
| September to November (spring) | 6 to 12 °C (43-54 °F) | 0 to 4 °C (32-39 °F) | 12 to 16 h | Thaw, lots of wind, snow up high |
Month by month: what to do in each season
November and December
Summer season begins. Trails clear of snow, penguins return to Martillo Island and days stretch until almost 11 p.m. Perfect for Laguna Esmeralda and the first boat trips to the penguin colony.
January and February
The warmest and busiest months. The best time for the Vinciguerra Glacier, mountain biking and the Atlantic coast by 4x4. Book ahead.
March and April
Autumn turns the lenga and ñire forests red and gold. There are fewer tourists, the wind drops and the light is perfect for photos. Treks keep running until the snow arrives.
May
A transition month: cold, short days and the first snowfalls. Very quiet. The 4x4 lakes tour, the National Park and the Lighthouse and Sea Lions cruise all work well.
June, July and August
Deep winter. Cerro Castor opens for skiing and snowboarding, and it's the season for fat biking on snow, the Night Ride on Ice and snowshoeing. July is peak season due to Argentine winter holidays.
September and October
There's still snow in the mountains and fat biking continues in September. It's the windiest time of year, but prices are calmer.
When is the best time to visit Ushuaia?
- For trekking, glaciers and penguins: November to March.
- For snow, skiing and fat biking: June to September.
- For photos and peace and quiet: March and April, with autumn colors.
- To spend less: May, September and October, outside holiday periods.
What to pack for each season
The golden rule is layering, all year. In summer: a light base layer, fleece and a waterproof, windproof jacket, plus a hat and thin gloves for the wind. In winter: a thermal base layer, a warm mid layer, waterproof snow clothing, boots, gloves and a neck gaiter. We cover it in detail in how to dress for the snow in Ushuaia.
You don't need to buy everything: at our Rental you can rent jackets, waterproof pants, boots and snow clothing, with 50% off when you book your tours with us.
What if the weather doesn't cooperate?
For safety, the guide may change a tour's schedule, duration or route. If a departure is canceled, we arrange a new date. That's why we recommend not leaving your most important activities for the last day.
Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest month in Ushuaia?
July is usually the coldest month, with highs of 3 to 5 °C (37 to 41 °F) and lows below freezing.
Does it snow in Ushuaia in summer?
It's rare in town, but it can snow in the mountains any month of the year, even in January.
How many hours of daylight does Ushuaia get?
About 17 hours in December, with sunsets around 10 p.m., and about 7 hours in June.
When is the best time to visit Ushuaia?
November to March for trekking, glaciers and penguins; June to September for snow, skiing and fat biking.
Guides and team at Ushuaia Extremo, running trekking, 4x4 and fat bike tours in Ushuaia. We write about the places we explore every week. Meet us
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