Ski Touring and Resort Skiing

Ski Touring and Resort Skiing in Chile and Argentina

Last year, South American ski resorts were hit by record-breaking snowstorms, paving the way for another thrilling season. We've updated our insider's travel guide with local advice and professional insights to help you begin organising your ideal South American ski vacation as PowderQuest begins its 26th year of serving skiers and snowboarders in the Andes. South America offers an experience that will never be forgotten, whether you're cruising lift-accessed terrain or chasing powder in the backcountry.

We've been skiing it all, and in this guide we'll go over what we think are the top South American ski destinations, the main distinctions between Chilean and Argentinean skiing, when to go, and how to make it all happen.The Andes provide the ideal means of extending the "endless winter," with lifts spinning as early as May.

Best Ski Resorts in South America

The opportunity to switch seasons is one of the main draws of skiing in South America. From June to October, the Andes offer lengthy ski days and cold storms, while the Northern Hemisphere enjoys the summer heat. Skiers from all around the world who aren't prepared to pack up their equipment when their local mountains close are drawn to this reverse-season advantage.

World-class terrain and excellent snowfall are regularly found at Chile's well-known locations, such as Portillo and Valle Nevado. In Argentina, on the other side of the border, Las Leñas and Cerro Catedral are notable mega-resorts with expansive landscapes, vibrant après-ski scenes, and consistent storm cycles.

Argentina's Chapelco and Cerro Bayo provide boutique-style ski retreats with quaint communities and less crowds for those looking for something more private. While Antillanca and Osorno in Patagonia offer a more secluded, spiritual skiing experience, the recently opened Pillan Ski Resort outside of Pucón in Chile is drawing interest.

Don’t Overlook Nevados de Chillán

Nevados de Chillán is a genuine Chilean gem that is frequently overlooked in favour of the more well-known brands. With a local guide, Chillán, which lies between the Central Valley and the Lake District, provides a unique combination of regular snowfall, diverse topography, and volcanic backcountry that may be explored for days. With its expansive alpine bowls, tree skiing, and hot springs at the base, it's no surprise that Chillán is still one of PowderQuest's favourite Andean destinations.

Beyond the Slopes: Ultimate Travel Guides

Selecting a resort is only one aspect of organising a South American ski vacation; another is getting fully immersed in the customs, scenery, and way of life of Chile and Argentina. In-depth destination guides, compiled by our travel specialists, offer advice on where to go, how to get there, when to go, and what to anticipate when you get there.These tips let you enjoy the Andes like a local, from navigating Santiago to Bariloche's après-ski customs.

Popular South America Ski Trips

Skiing in South America is truly magical when you visit multiple resorts in one vacation. You may get a genuine flavour of the local way of life while exploring hidden stashes, backcountry lines, and lively mountain communities by going with an experienced local ski guide. Whether you’re linking Valle Nevado with Portillo, or crossing the border to ski both Chile and Argentina in one journey, this multi-resort approach is how South America skiing is meant to be enjoyed.

Conclusion: Why Ski South America

Argentina and Chile provide more than just skiing; they also offer culture, adventure, and the opportunity to make lifelong memories.The Andes have something for any skier or snowboarder, from the famous backcountry of Nevados de Chillán to the iconic yellow hotel of Portillo and the crazy powder days in Las Leñas.

As PowderQuest celebrates over two decades of guiding in South America, we invite you to discover the best of both Chile and Argentina with us. The Andes will be waiting, the snow will be deep, and the storms will arrive.The only question is, are you prepared to go on your next epic ski journey across South America?