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Best Skiing in South America

Best Skiing in South America

We've updated our travel guide with our best local advice and professional insights as PowderQuest enters its 26th year of South American skiing to help you organize the perfect South American ski vacation. We've skied everything, from the most famous resorts to undiscovered treasures, and now we're giving you all the information you need to know about the top ski spots, how to decide between Chile and Argentina, when to travel, and how to make it happen.


Southern Hemisphere summer skiing is a unique and remarkable experience since the lifts begin spinning as early as May..


Top Ski Resorts in South America


For skiers traveling to South America this winter, expect to find large, internationally renowned resorts known for their high-quality terrain and snow. Some of the must-visit mega ski destinations include:


  • Portillo and Valle Nevado in Chile: World-class resorts famous for reliable powder and stunning Andean vistas


  • Las Leñas and Cerro Catedral in Argentina: Mega resorts offering a wide variety of terrain, from resort runs to big backcountry opportunities


For those seeking smaller, off-the-radar ski getaways:


  • Argentina's Chapelco Resort and Cerro Bayo are boutique resorts with tranquil communities, well-spaced trees, and uncluttered slopes.


  • A more recent resort outside of Pucón, Pillan Ski Resort (Chile) provides access to the volcanic area and contemporary lifts.


  • Further south in Patagonia, Antillanca and Osorno (Chile) are ideal for daring tourists looking for unspoiled scenery and unspoiled terrain.

Chile vs Argentina: Which Should You Choose?


Argentina is the go-to destination for professional skiers looking for powder and diversity since it often has better weather, more infrastructure, and greater terrain quality than Chile. Nonetheless, Chile continues to draw tourists for a number of reasons:


  • A more relaxed local culture

  • Lush, green landscapes

  • Unique opportunities to climb and backcountry ski active volcanoes


Both nations provide amazing experiences, but which one you choose depends on your top priorities, whether it be exploring Chile's remote volcanoes or Argentina's expansive tree runs and resorts.


Conclusion: Plan Your Dream South America Ski Trip


With its world-class resorts, amazing snow, and lively local culture, South America provides an amazing winter experience. Memorable experiences await you whether you go for the boutique charm of Chapelco, Cerro Bayo, or Pillan, or the giant ski resorts of Portillo, Valle Nevado, Las Leñas, or Cerro Catedral.


Under bright blue skies, enjoy active volcano terrain, well-spaced forest zones, and beautiful backcountry lines from May to October. With decades of expertise and in-depth local knowledge, PowderQuest assists you in creating the ideal South American ski trip.


Get ready for a journey in which every run is legendary, every vista is stunning, and every experience will live in your memory.
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