Best Places to Ski: Discover South America's Top Resorts for a Winter Adventure

If you're searching for the best places to ski in the world, you might think of the Alps or Japan. But look south. The towering Andes, stretching across Chile and Argentina, offer breathtaking alpine terrain, world-class snow, and a ski culture that’s still under the radar for many international travelers. These resorts not only deliver incredible snow but also stunning scenery—making the Andes some of the prettiest places to ski anywhere on Earth.

For adventurous skiers, South America is a hidden gem. From modern mega-resorts like Valle Nevado to iconic spots like Cerro Catedral and Portillo, each destination has its own personality and perks. And while Europe and North America dominate the global ski scene, countries like Chile and Argentina are quietly becoming contenders for the number one ski destinations thanks to consistent snow, affordability, and unique cultural experiences.

❄️ Cerro Catedral, Argentina

Located in the Patagonian Lake District just outside Bariloche, Cerro Catedral is the largest ski resort in Argentina and one of the most developed in South America.

Why Ski Here:

120 km of skiable terrain with modern lifts
Beautiful lake and mountain views
Large network of blue, red, and black runs
Access to vibrant Bariloche nightlife and cuisine

Thanks to its convenient access (via Bariloche Airport, with connections from Buenos Aires), Cerro Catedral is great for international travelers. From the airport, it's a scenic 45-minute drive to the base of the mountain.

You’ll also find family-friendly ski schools, equipment rentals, and cozy alpine lodges here. For backcountry lovers, the resort connects to off-piste areas and guided ski touring is widely available.

Cerro Catedral sees regular snowfall—300 to 500 cm annually—and is a great all-around resort whether you're a beginner or an off-piste enthusiast. For international visitors wondering how good skiing is in Argentina, this resort is the benchmark.

If you’re asking how good skiing is in Argentina, Cerro Catedral easily makes the case: it combines scale, scenery, and solid infrastructure.

🧳 Travel Tip: Pack layered clothing — temperatures can swing from mild at the base to sub-zero at the summit. Don't forget sunscreen; UV levels are high in the Andes even in winter.

🏔️ Valle Nevado, Chile

Just 90 minutes from Santiago, Valle Nevado offers a seamless winter escape for travelers flying into Chile. Situated at over 3,000 meters, this high-elevation resort is part of Chile’s Tres Valles ski area—offering massive terrain and some of the most consistent snow in the region.

Key Features:

7,000+ acres of skiable terrain (combined with La Parva and El Colorado)
Heli-skiing and snowcat tours available
High-speed lifts and upscale accommodations
Season runs from mid-June to late September

Because of the altitude and orientation, Valle Nevado often has the most reliable snowpack in Chile. Snowfall is generally light and dry, making it a solid destination if you’re comparing where the best skiing snow in the world exists during Southern Hemisphere winter.

Valle Nevado receives consistent snow from Pacific storm systems, especially in El Niño years, when snowfall is often above average. Storms typically roll in cycles—powder chasers should monitor snow forecasts closely.

For travelers asking how expensive skiing in Chile is, Valle Nevado sits in the mid-to-high range—but offers excellent value with ski week packages, which include lodging, lift passes, and meals.

🌤️ Snow Insight: In El Niño years, snowfall is often heavier here, especially in July–August. Most storm systems move in from the Pacific, and when they hit, conditions can change fast — keep your powder gear ready.

🎒 Essentials: Bring extra ski goggles — the high-altitude climate means bright sun one moment and sudden fog the next. Credit cards and USD are widely accepted at the resort.

🟨 Portillo, Chile

Steeped in history and surrounded by towering Andean peaks, Portillo in Chile is unlike any other resort in the Americas. Though it has fewer lifts and trails than major resorts, it more than makes up for it in ambiance, vertical terrain, and an inclusive ski culture.

Why It’s Special:

Legendary runs like Roca Jack and Garganta for advanced skiers
High-speed slingshot lifts for steep terrain access
Historic Hotel Portillo offering all-inclusive packages
Remote alpine setting near Laguna del Inca

Portillo sits at 2,880 meters and is often one of the first to receive big snow dumps during Pacific storms. The resort is best visited from late July to mid-August, when snow depth and quality are typically at their best.

Because guest numbers are capped, there are virtually no lift lines, creating a relaxed, old-school ski experience. For those wondering how to get to Portillo, it's a 2.5-hour drive from Santiago on the road to Mendoza, Argentina.

Portillo is perfect if you’re seeking an unplugged, social, and high-alpine ski experience without distractions. And while it’s not the largest ski resort, its legacy and terrain put it on many expert skiers' bucket lists.

☀️ UV Alert: The altitude here means intense sunlight — pack high-SPF sunscreen and a face covering to protect from windburn.

💡 Tip: Bring a universal travel adapter (Type C or I) for charging your devices — Chile uses a different plug system than North America or Europe.

🌋 Nevados de Chillán, Chile

One of South America’s best-kept ski secrets, Nevados de Chillán offers a mix of terrain, fewer crowds, and natural hot springs at the base of its volcanic slopes.

Highlights:

Chile’s longest ski run at 13 km
1,100-meter vertical drop, the largest in the country
Tree skiing, back bowls, and sidecountry access
Thermal baths right next to the ski resort

Thanks to its mid-size footprint and natural setting, Nevados de Chillán is ideal for skiers wanting a mix of groomed and off-piste skiing with a touch of relaxation. It’s also one of the best spots for powder days when storms hit from the Pacific.

Fly into Chillán or Concepción, then take a private transfer to the resort. From Santiago, it's about 6 hours by road. You’ll find a relaxed, uncrowded environment that caters to powder seekers and families alike.

The resort is especially appealing to those asking where to ski in Chile without spending top dollar. It’s also known for some of the best value ski packages in the Andes, with spa and ski options included.

🌨️ Weather Note: Chillán can see heavy dumps during snow cycles, especially in El Niño seasons, so flexibility in your itinerary could score you surprise powder days.

🧳 Packing Add-On: Bring a compact daypack for layering — conditions can go from warm to stormy fast.

🏞️ Las Leñas, Argentina

Remote, wild, and wonderfully raw, Las Leñas is where advanced skiers and big-mountain riders head for an adrenaline rush.

What to Expect:

Epic alpine bowls, couloirs, and backcountry zones
A loyal community of freeriders and snow athletes
Weekend night skiing and scenic alpine lodging
Limited crowds and long descents

Las Leñas is located in Mendoza Province. Most travelers fly into Mendoza City or Malargüe, then take a 4–5 hour shuttle. While not technically in Patagonia, it shares the same rugged terrain and spirit.

Though Las Leñas can be expensive, the skiing is worth it—especially for those who crave high-consequence terrain and remote, high-altitude runs.

💼 Travel Prep: Bring extra outerwear — storms here can be brutal, and remote access means resupply is difficult. Luggage should be weatherproof, especially if transferring via shuttle during active weather.

🧭 Bonus: Where Else Can You Ski?

While South America dominates during the Northern Hemisphere’s summer, it’s worth knowing how it compares to global options:

Japan (especially Hokkaido) still tops the charts for powder, but Chile and Argentina compete with dry snow and expansive terrain.
If you’re asking where is the biggest ski area in the world, the title goes to Les 3 Vallées in France—but the Andes’ scale still impresses.
Compared to Asia’s skiing (Japan, Korea, China), South America offers higher elevations, steeper terrain, and less commercial crowding.

For budget-conscious travelers, places like Nevados de Chillán and Cerro Catedral are often cheaper than European or North American resorts, especially with ski week deals.

🧳 Travel Tips & Final Suggestions

If you're planning your ski trip to South America, here are a few helpful pointers:

When to Go:

June to October is ski season, with July and August being peak months for snow and events.

How to Book:

Consider ski week packages that bundle lodging, meals, and lift access—available at most major resorts.
Book flights early, especially for Bariloche and Mendoza in Argentina or Santiago for Chile trips.

Add-On Experiences:

Wine tasting in Mendoza or Casablanca
Trekking in Patagonia before or after your ski week
Cultural stays in Bariloche or Santiago for local flavor

🎒 Gear & Packing List for Skiing in South America

Many international travelers are unfamiliar with skiing in the Southern Hemisphere's summer. Here’s what you’ll need for a comfortable and safe trip:

Essentials to Pack:

Waterproof shell + insulating layers: temperatures vary drastically
High-SPF sunscreen: UV is intense at altitude
Travel plug adapter: Type C or I plugs (Chile & Argentina)
Extra ski goggles: clouds and fog are common in the Andes
Local currency (CLP or ARS) + credit card for resort payments
Light gloves and neck gaiters — wind can pick up suddenly

If you’re planning to rent gear, it’s widely available at most resorts, but bringing your own boots is highly recommended for fit and comfort.

🌤️ Climate & Snow Conditions: What to Expect

The Andes offer some of the best skiing in the Southern Hemisphere, but conditions vary by region and elevation.

Key Snow & Weather Insights:

El Niño years tend to bring above-average snowfall across Chile and Argentina
Snow is drier and lighter at higher elevations like Valle Nevado and Portillo
Storms arrive in cycles off the Pacific—watch forecasts for the best powder windows
Lower resorts (like Cerro Catedral) may see more variable conditions, especially early/late season
Wind is a factor at high elevation—resorts sometimes close upper lifts during big storms

Planning your trip during late July to mid-August ensures deeper base snow and better backcountry access, especially in higher resorts.

🧭 Guided Ski Trips & Tour Operators in South America

For those who want to skip the hassle of planning logistics—or explore beyond the resort boundaries with expert guides—guided ski tours are the way to go. Several top operators offer all-inclusive, professionally curated ski trips across Argentina and Chile, with options for both intermediate riders and seasoned backcountry enthusiasts.

🏔️ Top Tour Operators:

1. PowderQuest

One of the most reputable names in South American snow travel, PowderQuest has been running ski and snowboard trips in the Andes since 1999. They offer a range of expertly guided adventures across:

Cerro Catedral, Bariloche – Freeride and culture-focused trips
Las Leñas and the Andes backcountry – Big-mountain tours for advanced skiers
Nevados de Chillán and Valle Nevado – Snowcat-assisted off-piste adventures
Portillo, Chile – Combined resort and sidecountry trips

PowderQuest trips include boutique lodging, lift tickets, transport, local cultural experiences, and small group sizes. Many itineraries also feature certified avalanche professionals and bilingual guides for maximum safety and stoke.

👉 Explore their tours at PowderQuest.com

2. CASA Tours (Chile Argentina Snow Adventures)

Specializing in immersive travel, CASA offers unique ski safaris across both countries, mixing in cultural activities like wine tasting and Patagonian cuisine. They operate mostly in:

Bariloche, Las Leñas, and Chillán
Multi-resort itineraries across the Andes
Road trips between Chile and Argentina’s top ski zones

3. Andes Touring & Upscape

For private or luxury-focused trips, Andes Touring and Upscape Travel are popular for customized ski vacations. Their packages often include:

Boutique or luxury accommodation
Private heli-skiing and cat skiing
Gourmet dining and wine country detours

These are ideal for travelers looking for a premium ski holiday or corporate retreats in the Andes.

Why Choose a Guided Trip?

Local knowledge: Guides know where the best snow is, how to avoid crowds, and how to manage unpredictable weather.
Safety: Especially for off-piste terrain, certified guides are crucial for avalanche awareness and navigation.
Convenience: Everything from lodging and meals to transportation and lift passes is organized.
Cultural connection: Many guided trips include local dining, town tours, and insider experiences you’d miss on your own.

🎿 Final Thoughts: Where Is the Best Place to Ski?

So, what is the best place to ski in the world? It depends on the season and what kind of experience you’re after. But if you're looking for:

Uncrowded slopes
Stunning Andean scenery
Consistent winter snow—during your summer
A mix of world-class terrain and authentic culture

Then the Andes Mountains in Chile and Argentina are unbeatable. Whether you're carving lines above Lake Nahuel Huapi or descending a volcanic face in Chillán, these destinations are more than just ski resorts—they’re full-on adventures.

Whether you’re planning a DIY trip or prefer a professionally guided experience, the Andes are more accessible than ever. With operators like PowderQuest, CASA Tours, and Upscape, you're in expert hands—whether you're chasing powder in Portillo or carving groomers above Bariloche.

Powder Quest

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