All Weather Guides

Weather Guide: Ushuaia

Welcome to Ushuaia, the 'End of the World'! Known for its dramatic subpolar climate, Ushuaia offers a unique weather experience where four seasons can be felt in a single day. Be prepared for strong winds, crisp temperatures, and breathtaking scenery.

Climate: Subpolar OceanicElevation: 10m

Overview

Ushuaia experiences a subpolar oceanic climate, characterized by cool, short summers and long, relatively mild but snowy winters. Precipitation is frequent year-round, often in the form of rain, sleet, or snow. The region is famous for its relentless and often fierce winds, which are a constant companion to any outdoor activity. Weather changes can be extremely rapid, demanding readiness for all conditions.

Monthly Weather

January

Peak
14°
5°
18 rainy days|0 snow days|6 hrs sun|45 km/h

January is peak summer in Ushuaia, offering the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and cruises. While relatively mild, rain showers are still frequent, and strong winds are always a possibility.

February

Peak
13°
4°
17 rainy days|0 snow days|5.5 hrs sun|40 km/h

February continues the summer season with slightly cooler temperatures than January but still excellent conditions for exploration. Daylight hours remain long, and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. Be ready for sudden shifts in weather.

March

High
10°
2°
18 rainy days|1 snow days|4.5 hrs sun|38 km/h

As autumn begins, temperatures start to drop, and the surrounding forests display stunning fall foliage, creating a beautiful backdrop for sightseeing. While generally pleasant, the chance of colder weather and even light snow increases towards the end of the month.

April

Moderate
7°
0°
19 rainy days|3 snow days|3 hrs sun|35 km/h

April sees a significant drop in temperatures and shorter daylight hours, signaling the approach of winter. While still possible to enjoy some outdoor activities, snow becomes more common, and conditions can be quite chilly and damp. Some tours may start to conclude for the season.

May

Low
4°
-2°
18 rainy days|8 snow days|2 hrs sun|30 km/h

May is distinctly cold, with frequent snowfall transforming Ushuaia into a winter wonderland. Daylight hours are very short, and many hiking trails may become inaccessible due to snow. This month marks the beginning of the ski season in nearby resorts.

June

Low
2°
-3°
16 rainy days|10 snow days|1.5 hrs sun|30 km/h

June is the heart of winter, featuring the shortest daylight hours and the highest chance of significant snowfall. Conditions are often icy and very cold, primarily attracting visitors interested in winter sports like skiing or snowboarding.

July

Low
2°
-3°
17 rainy days|11 snow days|1.8 hrs sun|32 km/h

July mirrors June with consistently cold temperatures, frequent snow, and minimal daylight. This is prime time for winter sports enthusiasts, while other tourist activities are severely limited. Expect picturesque snowy landscapes.

August

Low
3°
-2°
18 rainy days|9 snow days|2.5 hrs sun|35 km/h

August sees a gradual increase in daylight and a very slight warming trend, though it remains firmly winter. Snow is still very common, and conditions can be icy. Ski resorts are usually still in full swing. The landscape is covered in snow and ice.

September

Moderate
6°
0°
17 rainy days|4 snow days|4 hrs sun|40 km/h

Spring begins to awaken Ushuaia, with lengthening days and slowly rising temperatures. While remnants of winter snow may persist, especially in higher elevations, the landscape starts to green. Winds can be particularly strong this month.

October

High
9°
2°
18 rainy days|1 snow days|5 hrs sun|45 km/h

October is a beautiful time as spring blossoms across the region, and many outdoor activities resume. Temperatures are mild, but winds can be quite persistent and strong. Daylight hours are significantly longer, allowing for more exploration.

November

High
11°
3°
17 rainy days|0 snow days|5.5 hrs sun|48 km/h

Approaching summer, November offers pleasant conditions for visiting, with longer daylight hours and warming temperatures perfect for hiking and boat tours. The chances of snow are minimal, but strong Patagonian winds are a defining feature of the month.

December

Peak
13°
4°
18 rainy days|0 snow days|6 hrs sun|50 km/h

December marks the beginning of summer and the peak tourist season in Ushuaia. Enjoy the longest daylight hours of the year, providing ample time for exploring national parks and taking cruises. Expect mild temperatures but be prepared for high winds and sudden rain.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Ushuaia is during the warmer months from December to March (summer/early autumn) for hiking, wildlife viewing, and longer daylight hours. Spring (September to November) also offers pleasant conditions with fewer crowds and blooming landscapes. For winter sports, July and August are ideal.

Worst Time to Visit

The period from May to August is generally considered the worst time to visit for general tourism due to very cold temperatures, extensive snow and ice, significantly shorter daylight hours, and limited non-skiing activities. If you are not specifically visiting for winter sports, these months can be challenging.

Rent a Car in Patagonia

Browse Car Rentals

Weather Warnings

Extreme and unpredictable winds are common year-round, often reaching gale force. Always check forecasts and secure belongings.

Weather can change rapidly from sun to rain, sleet, or snow within hours, regardless of the season. Always dress in layers and carry waterproof gear.

Even on cloudy days, UV radiation can be strong, especially in summer. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

Hypothermia risk: Cold temperatures combined with wind and precipitation can lead to rapid heat loss. Always be prepared for cold conditions.

Icy conditions: In winter and early spring/late autumn, roads and trails can be slippery due due to ice and packed snow.

Layering Guide

Dressing in layers is paramount for Ushuaia's variable climate. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer (merino wool or synthetic) to manage sweat. Add an insulating mid-layer like fleece or a light down jacket for warmth. The crucial outer layer should be a high-quality waterproof and windproof shell jacket and pants to protect against wind, rain, and snow. Always include a warm hat, gloves or mittens, and a scarf or neck gaiter. Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are essential for all seasons.

Rent a Car in Patagonia

Explore this destination at your own pace. Find the perfect rental car for your Patagonia adventure.

Pickup Date
Drop-off Date

Explore More

Discover more guides and resources for this destination

Explore More Guides

View all →

Aluminé Weather Guide (2026) — Monthly Climate, Temperatures & Best Time

Carretera Austral Weather Guide (2026) — Monthly Climate, Temperatures & Best Time

Caviahue-Copahue Weather Guide (2026) — Monthly Climate, Temperatures & Best Time

Chaitén Weather Guide (2026) — Monthly Climate, Temperatures & Best Time

Chile Chico Weather Guide (2026) — Monthly Climate, Temperatures & Best Time

Chiloé Island Weather Guide (2026) — Monthly Climate, Temperatures & Best Time

Frequently Asked Questions

How cold does Ushuaia get in winter?

In winter (June-August), average high temperatures are around 2-3°C (36-37°F) and average lows are about -2°C to -3°C (27-28°F). However, with wind chill, it can feel significantly colder, often below -10°C (14°F).

Is it always windy in Ushuaia?

Ushuaia is renowned for its strong, persistent winds, especially during spring and summer. While not 'always' windy, calm days are rare, and gusts can be very powerful, often exceeding 80-100 km/h (50-60 mph).

What is the best time for hiking in Ushuaia?

The best time for hiking is during the summer months from December to February when trails are clearest of snow, and daylight hours are longest. Early autumn (March) and late spring (November) also offer good conditions, though some higher trails might still have snow.

Can I see snow in Ushuaia during summer?

While rare in the city center during peak summer (December-February), it's not impossible to see light snowfall on mountain peaks surrounding Ushuaia even in summer. Snow is common on higher elevations year-round.

What are the daylight hours like in Ushuaia?

Due to its high southern latitude, Ushuaia experiences extreme variations. In summer (December-January), you can have up to 17-18 hours of daylight. In contrast, winter (June-July) sees as little as 7-8 hours of daylight.

Is it true the weather changes quickly?

Absolutely. Ushuaia's weather is notoriously fickle. It's common to experience sunshine, rain, and strong winds all within a few hours. Always be prepared for rapid changes by dressing in adaptable layers.

What are the chances of rain in Ushuaia?

Ushuaia receives precipitation fairly consistently throughout the year, with an average of 16-19 rainy/snowy days per month. So, carrying waterproof gear is always a good idea, regardless of the season.

Ushuaia

|