Thousands brave the cold at annual winter swim in Magellan Strait

Over 13,000 people marked the arrival of winter in the southern hemisphere with a mass dip in the icy waters of the Strait of Magellan.

This annual event draws tourists from around the world to Punta Arenas, Chile’s second-most southern city.

Participants, many clad in wetsuits or small swimsuits, plunged into the strait after a special warm-up to prepare for the frigid temperatures that can impact circulation.

The strait was discovered over 600 years ago by Portuguese explorer Hernán de Magallanes and continues to be a significant attraction.

Despite the sensation of the temperature being three degrees below zero, the event saw record participation this year.

Punta Arenas Mayor, Claudio Radonich, highlighted the event as a testament to the city’s resilience and a significant boost to tourism.

He also joined the thousands who braved the icy waters.

The event was inclusive of all ages, with both the young and old sharing the unique experience of the cold waters.

This annual winter swim in the Strait of Magellan symbolizes not just a celebration of the season but also the unity and spirit of the city.

This article was produced by The Rio Times’ automated newsroom system. How we use AI · Report an error