Known as the most remote continent on earth, Antarctica is not typically considered a “bucket list” destination. Over 1000 kilometers from the nearest continent, Antarctica is not easily navigated, nor is it for the faint of heart. However, in many ways, Antarctica is the last frontier. This virtually uninhabited, ice-covered landmass is the epitome of wild: from striking iceberg passageways and fjords to isolated glaciers that provide a home to thousands of penguins and other wildlife, this land is considered sacred to many travelers.
However, with its often plunging temperatures, when is the best time to travel to this majestic continent? Continue reading below for a monthly weather guide to help you determine the best time to plan your magnificent trip to Antarctica!
January
With temperatures reaching nearly 37 degrees Fahrenheit and the sun shining nearly 20 hours per day, January is one of the warmest months in Antarctica. The summer brings with it just enough heat to melt the heavy, packed ice, opening up fjords and passageways for ships to explore. Because of this warmth, January is one of the best months to get an amazing glimpse of Antarctica’s incredible wildlife: you can watch adult penguins care for their young, hatching chicks, and see a plentitude of whales in their natural habitats.
February
The beginning weeks of February mark Antarctica’s warmest time of the year. As such, this month is also the best time of the year to spot various types of whales, including Right, Blue, Sei, Humpback, Minke, Fin, Sperm and Killer whales. Penguins and penguin chicks are still plentiful at this time of year, and, if temperatures rise high enough, it may even be possible to cross the Antarctic Circle.
March
Yet, as February fades to March, temperatures begin to drop to an average of 29 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. Though whales are still very active and visible during this month, you do run the risk that other wildlife have already returned to the sea. By this month, penguin chicks have grown large and are beginning to flee to nest. Daylight hours begin to fade, and, as March turns to April, the winds begin to grow stronger and the temperatures plunge as winter begins to take hold. However, with fewer ships cruising during this month, early March is one of the best times to glimpse Antarctica without any competition from other tour boats!
April-September
April, May, June, July, August, and September are considered “no go” months in Antarctica. Vessels do not operate during this time of year due to the below-freezing temperatures, constant darkness, and packed ice that block passageways. During the height of winter, temperatures average -30 degrees Fahrenheit. The sun never rises during the worst winter months, leaving the entire continent shrouded in darkness 24 hours per day.
The coldest temperature ever recorded during Antarctica’s deep winter was -89 degrees Fahrenheit, and temperatures can regularly reach -50. With unbelievable strong winds and torrential weather, Antarctica is inhospitable to human life or activity during these months.
Late October-November
Though temperatures remain incredibly cold during these months, many vessels begin their operations in late October or early November. Because weather is still freezing, this time of year is perfect to getting up close to the continent’s largest, most stunning icebergs and pristine landscapes, before all of the polar ice breaks up and all the landing sites become muddy and crowded. This time of the year also marks the beginning of elephant seal breeding season, giving visitors a chance to see hundreds of seal pups. You’ll also catch a glimpse of lots of penguin nests full of eggs before their chicks hatch in the warmer months!
December
With rising temperatures and almost constant sunlight, December is considered the very best time to visit Antarctica. Daily average temperatures reach nearly 30 degrees Fahrenheit, making this month the ideal time to see hatching penguin chicks, whales, and elephant seal pups. December marks the height of Antarctica’s summer, and, because it is considered the busiest tourist season, be sure to book your trip well in advance if you are hoping to travel to Antarctica in December!
From stunning, rugged landscapes to incredible wildlife, Antarctica is certain to be a life-changing adventure. Is this continent on your bucket list? Let us know in the comments below!