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Skiing in santiago and chile

Skiing in Santiago, Chile: Resorts, Rentals, and City Guide

The option to ski Santiago, Chile should not be overlooked if you are planning a South American skiing vacation. Just an hour outside the capital, you’ll find world-class ski resorts, vibrant city life, and unique cultural experiences.

In this guide, we’ll cover the best ski resorts near Santiago, insider tips on where to rent gear, the best shops in the city, and why you should spend a few days exploring Chile’s capital. With over two decades of experience skiing and traveling through Santiago, we’re here to help you plan the perfect trip.

Ski Resorts in Santiago, Chile

During the ski season (June to September), there are three ski resorts close to Santiago that are worth seeing. Tres Valles, or "The Three Valleys," is what the locals refer to as Valle Nevado, La Parva, and El Colorado/Farellones.

You may drive to any of these destinations in 60 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic, road conditions, and your Santiago lodging.

Valle Nevado Ski Resort

One of Chile's most well-known ski resorts, Valle Nevado, was established in the late 1980s by French businesspeople. The resort, which boasts more than 900 hectares of skiable terrain and a base elevation of over 3,000 meters, is encircled by striking cliffs and provides stunning sunset views. It is a full-service mountain attraction with hotels, restaurants, and pubs on site.

La Parva Ski Resort

La Parva, one of Chile's oldest ski resorts, was established shortly after World War II and is located immediately below Valle Nevado. It is particularly well-liked by Santiago's elite skiing community and features top-notch terrain with over 15 lifts and slopes up to 4 km long.

Farellones Ski Resort

Farellones, the nearest ski area to Santiago, is frequently disregarded but offers significant benefits to those who know where to go. This resort is particularly well-liked for its "sidecountry" terrain, which is accessible by lift and is among the best in central Chile.

Why Spend Time in Santiago?

With good cause, Santiago recently made the New York Times list of the best places to visit.

Since our initial visit in 1997, the almost 7 million-person capital city has experienced a boom in its music, art, and culinary scenes. Though frequently eclipsed by São Paulo and Buenos Aires, Santiago is a city worth exploring.

We enjoy spending two to three days exploring Chile's neighbourhoods, shooting pictures, touring award-winning wines, and experiencing the city's ever expanding selection of cafés, bars, and restaurants.

Conclusion: Ski Santiago for the Best of Both Worlds

The ideal fusion of urban culture and outdoor adventure may be found when skiing in Santiago, Chile. You can ski world-class terrain during the day and take in exquisite cuisine, a lively nightlife, and a rich cultural experience at night thanks to the three major ski resorts that are little over an hour from the city.

Santiago is the perfect starting point for a South American ski vacation, whether you're chasing powder in the Andes, shopping for last-minute equipment, or enjoying wine in a vineyard.

Santiago has more to offer than you might think, so if skiing and exploring are on your itinerary, you're in the ideal location.


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