Skip to main content

Ski in South America

Best Places to Ski in South America

Last year, South American ski resorts experienced record-breaking snowstorms, paving the way for an even more spectacular 2025 season. In preparation for PowderQuest's 26th year of skiing in South America, we've added insider advice, local knowledge, and suggestions to our travel guide to help you organize the perfect ski vacation.

For skiers from the north, South America offers a unique experience because of the opposite seasons, which let you enjoy the "Endless Winter" and avoid the summer heat at home. Although lifts frequently begin operating as early as May, resorts are open from June to October.

Top Ski Destinations

Whether you’re after world-class resorts or off-the-radar gems, South America has something for everyone :

Chile: 

With comfortable ski-in/ski-out hotels, dry snow, groomed lines, and top-notch ski schools, Portillo and Valle Nevado are well-known worldwide. In Chilean Patagonia, farther south, Pillan, Antillanca, and Osorno provide more sedate, upscale experiences.

Argentina:

Las Lenas is well-known for its wide backcountry, steep terrain, and vibrant nightlife. A combination of alpine terrain, tree skiing, and excellent backcountry access can be found at Cerro Catedral in Bariloche. Away from the masses, smaller mountains like Chapelco and Cerro Bayo provide specialized skiing experiences.

Nevados de Chillán, Chile:

Known for consistent, deep snow and fun out-of-bounds freeriding across terrain naturally carved by ancient lava flows. This resort also offers tree skiing and relaxing hot springs.

When to Go

The South American ski season can stretch from mid-May to early November, but the prime winter snow is typically mid-July to mid-September.

  • Early July: Local school holidays may lead to busier lifts and higher prices.
  • Mid to late June: Can surprise with big snowstorms and excellent conditions.
  • September to October: Patagonia resorts, especially Bariloche, often enjoy outstanding late-season skiing, with a mix of powder and corn snow.

For backcountry skiing, mid-July through October is prime, offering the best snow and longer daylight hours for exploring untouched terrain.

Conclusion

For daring skiers looking for deep snow, pristine slopes, and a thriving mountain culture, South America is a must-visit location. Every skier or snowboarder can find something to enjoy, from Argentina's breathtaking backcountry to Chile's famous resorts. Season after season, the Andes provide wonderful ski vacations, regardless of your preference for secluded adventures or resort comfort.


Labels:
Location: United States

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Does it snow in South America ?

Does It Snow in South America? A Skier’s Guide to Chile and Argentina The answer to the question of whether or not it snows in South America is unquestionably yes. Last year, the Andes experienced record-breaking snowstorms that produced some of the best conditions for snowboarding and skiing in the Southern Hemisphere. With towering peaks, deep powder, and world-class ski resorts, South America offers an unforgettable experience for both resort and backcountry skiers. We've updated our South America ski guide with the greatest resorts, insider advice, and all the information you need to organise the ideal ski vacation in Chile or Argentina as PowderQuest begins its 26th year of assisting tourists. When Does It Snow in South America? South America's ski season lasts from June to October, which corresponds to the winter and spring seasons in the Southern Hemisphere. This gives northern skiers the ideal chance to escape the sweltering summer months back home and pursue an "...
Post a Comment
Read more

Skiing in Argentina: Your Complete 2025 Guide to the Best Resorts in the Andes

 If you're chasing winter while the Northern Hemisphere warms up, skiing in Argentina might just be the adventure you’re looking for. With powdery peaks, long seasons, and resorts that cater to every style—from off-grid thrill-seekers to families on holiday— Argentina ski resorts offer a truly unique way to experience the Andes. Whether you're planning your first ski trip to South America or returning for another season, this guide covers the top resorts, best times to go, budget tips, and more. Why Consider Skiing in Argentina? Argentina’s Andes mountains stretch thousands of kilometers and offer surprisingly diverse terrain. What sets skiing here apart isn’t just the scenery—it’s the atmosphere. You’ll find wide-open slopes, fewer crowds, and an unmistakable South American energy. Skiing in Argentina also tends to be more affordable than Europe or North America, especially when you plan ahead. Most resorts offer a mix of modern amenities and rustic charm, with welcoming...
Post a Comment
Read more

Nevados de Chillan

Nevados de Chillan: Ski, Snowboard, and Discover Hidden Powder in Chile Discover some of Chile's most powder-filled hidden gems at popular ski resorts including Valle Nevado, La Parva, El Colorado, and the Nevados de Chillán volcano, which is our guide's particular favorite. Our knowledgeable experts take you directly to the top inbound stashes without requiring you to hike or trek uphill. With wine tasting, hot springs, traditional home-cooked meals, and a lively nightlife, this tour offers more than simply skiing and snowboarding. Explore Secret Powder Spots with Expert Local Guides Two multilingual local experts lead our journey, taking you off the usual route to discover our favorite hidden areas in some of Chile's most famous ski resorts. You'll find some of the greatest unexplored powder stashes in the Andes, from the volcanic landscape of Nevados de Chillán to the high-altitude slopes of Valle Nevado. The schedule changes daily based on weather and snow conditio...
Post a Comment
Read more