Londonderry Island
Island Remote subantarctic island in Magallanes Region
A subpolar island in Chile’s Magallanes Region within the Tierra del Fuego archipelago. Expedition cruises and boat voyages call for wildlife observation, fjord scenery and coastal exploration.
Londonderry Island is a coastal island in the Magallanes region of southern Chile, part of the Patagonian archipelago. The island lies within a complex of channels, sounds and smaller isles that characterize the far southern Chilean coast.
The island’s landscape is rugged and maritime, with sheltered channels, rocky shores and sparse settlement; it is representative of the remote islands of Tierra del Fuego and the Magellan Strait region. Access is by boat via coastal channels and it is not served by regular public transport.
Historically these islands have been used intermittently for small-scale fishing and maritime navigation rather than as locations for permanent towns. The island sits within the broad, sparsely populated coastal zone of Chilean Patagonia.
- Remoteness: Located in the southern reaches of the Chilean archipelago, the island is remote and largely uninhabited, typical of the coastal islands of Magallanes and Chilean Patagonia.
Tips for Visiting Londonderry Island #
- Aim for the austral summer (December-March) when weather and sea conditions are most favorable for small-boat travel around the island.
- Access is by boat only-book a dedicated expedition or join a wildlife/cruise operator out of Puerto Natales or Punta Arenas and confirm their specific landing plans; independent landings are uncommon.
- If you're interested in birds and coastal scenery, ask your skipper for a slow circumnavigation-many best viewpoints are from the water rather than landing on the island itself.
Best Time to Visit Londonderry Island #
Visit in the austral summer (December-February) for the mildest conditions and best chances of calmer seas and longer daylight.
Weather & Climate near Londonderry Island #
Londonderry Island's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cold summers (peaking in January) and cold winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from -1°C to 11°C. Abundant rainfall (1299 mm/year), wettest in February, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 5°C. Significant rainfall (115 mm) and breezy conditions.
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February
February is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 5°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (127 mm) and breezy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 4°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (127 mm) and breezy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (121 mm) and breezy conditions.
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May
May is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (108 mm) and breezy conditions.
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June
June is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (113 mm) and breezy conditions.
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 4°C and lows of -1°C. Significant rainfall (102 mm) and breezy conditions.
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August
August is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of 0°C. Regular rainfall (93 mm) and breezy conditions.
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September
September is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 0°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm) and breezy conditions.
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October
October is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 2°C. Regular rainfall (88 mm) and breezy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 3°C. Regular rainfall (100 mm) and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 4°C. Significant rainfall (113 mm) and breezy conditions.