Winter holidays in Ushuaia

Although temperatures drop much lower in winter, the Ushuaia cold is not as intense at this time. On the contrary, this city of the Patagonia Argentina provides a favorable climate. Even for those who resist considering a holiday in this season! Not for nothing, this city receives a lot of people during winter.

The average temperature is 2°C although, certainly, the windy days increase the thermal sensation that normally drops to -2°C. The big difference between winter and summer is marked by hours of sunlight. In other words, during winter the days are short, just 7 or 8 hours of sunlight.

Still, you can do a little bit of everything. The winter holidays in Ushuaia are the perfect opportunity to combine all kinds of excursions: from walks in Tierra del Fuego with a trip aboard the End of the World Train, to visits to museums and alpine skiing that presents itself as one of the must-haves of the time.

WHAT TO DO DURING WINTER IN USHUAIA?

Let us remember that one of the natural beauties of the southernmost city in the world are its mountains. Covered in snow, they not only give us an attractive white cloak in sight of large and small, local and foreign, but become preferred for alpine skiing and dog sledding . 

From June to the first week of October, Cerro Castor is shown as the best option for a frozen adventure. In addition to enjoying a powdered snow whose quality is ideal for experts, fans and beginners, children or adults (in short, the whole family), is located just 26 km from the city.

From there, you can combine your journey over the snow with other typical End of the World rides even in one day! There is a wide range of options for everyone’s entertainment, being another typical attraction of winter, e.g., the diving trips. Definitely great for true cold lovers.

We’re talking about an unprecedented water excursion. It’s done in no better place than under the waters of the Beagle Canal, delighting us with the spectacular, imposing and majestic marine flora and fauna of Ushuaia. Of course, those who dare to immerse themselves in this adventure have the accompaniment of certified divers and are equipped with the necessary suit and implements. It’s a matter of consulting operability and possible restrictions.

The truth of the case is that there’s still so much more to be done. There are frozen lagoons and so many other outdoor walks including the city, the Martial Mountains, the Maritime and Presidio Museum in Ushuaia. Learn more about these places and the activities available on this top 10 excursions and tours in Ushuaia.

WHAT CLOTHES TO WEAR TO TIERRA DEL FUEGO IN WINTER?

The first thing to keep in mind is that the weather in Tierra del Fuego is so unpredictable that you can go through all 4 seasons of the year in one day. Whether is winter or summer, you can experience various degrees of thermal amplitude and weather conditions in just a day, so be prepared for cold and heat.

But hey, no worries, there’s always a solution. The key is to apply the “onion style”, which is wearing different layers of clothing so that you can discard them easily if it gets warmer. Keep in mind that in the morning there might be a radiant sun and, just a couple of hours later, a chilly wind could hit or even a sudden rain.

Of course the snow is common during this season, but it’s known that in urban areas temperatures rise a little compared to the mountains. Additionally, accommodations, restaurants, shopping, tourist transport and commercial premises have heating to alleviate the effect of low temperatures on uncoupled bodies.

So, what clothes to wear for a winter holiday in Ushuaia? 

•         Coat: a waterproof jacket is recommended, as snowfall can surprise you at any time.
•         Layered clothing: allows us to take off clothes as the day progresses and be able to wear them again later. That’s why you have to follow an order. For example: lighter clothing should be the one that makes contact with the skin. Thermal T-shirts, divers, fleece coats and cotton are recommended; technical clothing to cope with very low temperatures in case of outdoors or in the hills excursions. For snow adventures, thermal underwear is suggested to help maintain leg temperatures.
•         Stockings: thermal stockings fall well for the winter season. It is suggested to carry an extra pair in the backpack and up to two, if you go hiking. Remember that if your shoes fail, you can get wet and not only is it uncomfortable but will contribute to the cold in your body.
•         Footwear: light and comfortable footwear is essential, but it must shelter and, of course, it must be 100% waterproof. This will depend on the enjoyment of each activity. It is recommended with rubber sole, preferably with a good grip for walks. Remember that the body heat escapes easily through your limbs, so they must be well covered!
•         Accessories: as we said in the previous point it is important to protect hands, heads and ears, so leather or thermal gloves, scarves and wool caps are recommended (there are also thermal ones).

For a winter holiday in Ushuaia you should also set aside some extras such as: sunscreen for the face (face and eye contour), sunglasses (if possible with UV filter), thermos with water or matte for the road and a backpack or small bag so that you keep your things save and they don’t get in the way during walks and excursions.

If you go to Cerro Castor where, of course, you will require more specific winter clothes; keep in mind that you should not necessarily make a big investment in this clothing. All the apparel and accessories for a snow adventure –skiing or snowboarding– are rented in the shops set up in this winter center.

In case you prefer to buy, you can do it in this city of the Patagonia at really good prices, considering that Ushuaia is tax-free. 

So you’re going for a winter vacation in Ushuaia? Do not hesitate to consult our travel advisors. They will help you create your travel itinerary for whatever time you wish to spend in Tierra del Fuego. Remember that we will help you combine the excursions without wasting time, all from our experience! Always guaranteeing your comfort, tranquility and enjoyment from beginning to end.

Have a winter adventure in The Land of Fire!