Antarctica was officially the coldest place on Earth in 2025, recording an average temperature of -56.7°C. This data was gathered by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), NASA’s GISTEMP, Berkeley Earth, and NOAA’s Global Historical Climatology Network (GHCN).
The continent also holds the record for the lowest temperature ever directly recorded on Earth, which was -89.2°C at Vostok Station, a Russian research station, on 21 July 1983. This record is recognised by the World Meteorological Organisation.
Despite its extreme conditions, Antarctica is accessible to travellers. Most visits occur during the Antarctic summer, typically between November and March, when temperatures are milder and daylight hours are longer. Expedition cruises often depart from southern South America, with Ushuaia in Argentina being a common starting point.
According to the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), 85,195 visitors landed in Antarctica during the 2025/26 season, while an additional 27,217 visited on cruise-only itineraries. Visitors are expected to follow measures to minimise their impact on the environment, as Antarctica is designated a natural reserve devoted to peace and science.