Ski South America

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Ski South America
Ski South America
Portillo: a high profile South American ski resort
Portillo: a high profile South American ski resort
A stopover in Buenos Aires for some tango
A stopover in Buenos Aires for some tango
Las Leñas offers some of the best skiing in South America
Las Leñas offers some of the best skiing in South America
Nevados de Chillan: one of the best ski resorts in South America
Nevados de Chillan: one of the best ski resorts in South America
Lake District Patagonia
Lake District Patagonia
Stopover in Santiago
Stopover in Santiago
Some of the southern Chile ski resorts are on volcanoes
Some of the southern Chile ski resorts are on volcanoes
Tres Valles near Santiago
Tres Valles near Santiago
Skiing in South America can offers some beautiful views
Skiing in South America can offers some beautiful views
Portillo amidst the dramatic Andes Mountains
Portillo amidst the dramatic Andes Mountains
Arpa Cat Skiing in South America
Arpa Cat Skiing in South America
Ski South America for a unique experience
Ski South America for a unique experience
Ushuaia - way down south in Argentina
Ushuaia - way down south in Argentina
Volcano skiing in South America - Caviahue
Volcano skiing in South America - Caviahue
Picturesque towns in Patagonia
Picturesque towns in Patagonia
South America Ski Resort Las Leñas
South America Ski Resort Las Leñas
South America snowboarding
South America snowboarding
Valle Nevado: the highest of the South America ski resorts
Valle Nevado: the highest of the South America ski resorts
Unique "slingshot" lift at Portillo Chile
Unique "slingshot" lift at Portillo Chile

Ski South America

South America Skiing & Snowboarding

Ski South America for a great vacation – fantástico y excelente! South America is not just famous amongst international travellers for Latin salsa dancing, Machu Picchu and scantily clad Brazilian beach-goers. There is also some great South America skiing and snowboarding to be found in the Andes of Argentina and Chile. Skiing in South America is world renowned, but it is particularly popular amongst keen skiers and boarders from the USA and Canada who need a snow fix during the Northern hemisphere summer.

South America offers a diversity of ski terrain and powder skiing on a huge mountain range. However, a ski South America vacation isn’t just about the skiing and snowboarding. If you love to combine great skiing with the fabulous Latin American culture, wine tasting, and an amazing nightlife, then South America is for you. Après ski starts late, dinner is later, and dancing is much, much later. You might not make the first lifts the next day, and avid powder hounds will love you for staying in bed all morning, especially on powder days.

South American Ski Resorts

There are more than 30 South America ski resorts. Most of the South America skiing is in the gargantuan Andes mountain range that creates a natural border between Argentina and Chile. In addition to the Chile ski resorts and Argentina ski resorts, the Andes also provide an endless expanse of backcountry ski terrain.

There used to be a ski resort in Bolivia, Chacaltava, with the highest elevation lift served skiing in the world, but unfortunately it closed due to climate change and a lack of snow.

South America skiing and boarding elsewhere is limited to guided ski touring in Columbia, Ecuador and Peru.

Some well known Argentina ski resorts are Las Leñas, Cerro Catedral (Bariloche), Chapelco and Cerro Bayo. See the where to ski in Argentina page for a summary of the main ski resorts in Argentina including locations and statistics.

High profile Chile ski resorts include Portillo, Valle Nevado, La Parva, El Colorado / Farellones and Nevados de Chillan. See the Chile ski resorts page for a summary of the ski areas and mountain statistics. 

The South American ski resorts have extreme diversity regarding the infrastructure, cost, and clientele that visit them. Some resorts are incredibly rustic, designed for family fun, and the peso reigns supreme. There are many resorts at the other end of the spectrum where there are multi-million dollar lift systems, swanky hotels, and the US dollar is the main currency.

The Andes Mountain range that splits Chile and Argentina is the second highest mountain range outside the Himalayas. Consequently some of the ski resorts are at high altitude with lift-served elevations reaching up to 3,700 metres (12,140 feet). At these dizzying heights, you’ll need to take it easy for the first few days, but these altitudes also bring advantages for the snow enthusiast. The snow fall is reliable, and the quality of it is reasonably well retained. Andean snow is typically a cross between the coastal snow packs you’d find on the west coast of North America, and the dry powder found in Utah and Colorado.

In the south some of the ski resorts have a mix of skiing above and below the tree line, but many of the South American ski resorts are above the tree line. Great views are afforded at these heights, and some people prefer to ski in open terrain. However treeless terrain can have many disadvantages. In inclement weather there are no sheltered areas on the mountain, and resorts sometimes have to close or at least put some of the lifts on wind-hold. And if the resort remains open, the impaired visibility may turn a ski pro into a novice. Thankfully there are plenty of sunny days in South America.

Ski South America - Other Options

There are plenty of backcountry skiing opportunities, some of which utilise ski resort lifts for the initial vertical gain.

Mechanized backcountry skiing and snowboarding is also an option. There are a handful of Chile heli skiing and Argentina heli skiing operators. Sled accessed skiing is available with Mallin Alto in Argentina, whilst cat skiing is possible at Arpa in Chile, and Baguales and El Azufre in Argentina.

South American Ski and Snowboard Tours

A great way to explore the South American ski resorts is to go on a multi-resort tour, and some itineraries also incorporate snowcat skiing or backcountry touring. Apart from meeting other like-minded riders, there are multiple benefits of going on a tour. You won’t have to struggle with your Spanglish language skills, and the guides also look after all your transport requirements. Some tours also incorporate other activities such as winery visits, Mapuche village outings, or other cultural experiences. You can also get the most out of the ski areas because the guides know the terrain intimately so you get to ski the best lines in the best snow with your safety being paramount.

You don't need to be an expert or advanced rider as there are some intermediate trips available, and some tours incorporate instruction or coaching.

See the Chile ski tours and the Argentina tours pages for more information. For tour dates and an indication of availability, check out the South America ski tours schedule.
South America Ski & Snowboard Tours

Safari (Road Trip) Tours

High Andes Adventure
GUIDED OFF-PISTE ROAD TRIP
7 Days | 6 Nights | 5 Days Skiing inc 1 Day Cat
Ability: Intermediate to Expert
Visit the highest ski resorts in the Andes and experience a day of cat skiing at Valle El Arpa. Situated in the shadow of Aconcagua, the tallest peak outside the Himalayas, these ski and snowboard centers will bring out the big mountain
Price p/p From price based on twin/double-share room occupancy for 2023 season.
Base/invoice currency is in USD inc taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 4,695
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Classic Shortie
GUIDED OFF-PISTE ROAD TRIP
9 Days | 8 Nights | 6 Days Skiing
Ability: Intermediate to Expert
This tour is ideal for first-timers to skiing in Chile or those wanting a quick fix of southern POW as it visits many of Chiles best resorts including Valle Nevado, La Parva, El Colorado and spectacular Nevados de Chillan.
Price p/p From price based on twin/double-share room occupancy for 2023 season.
Base/invoice currency is in USD inc taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 4,895
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Argentina Patagonia Ski Resorts Tour
GUIDED RESORT & BACKCOUTRY TOUR
8 Days | 7 Nights | 3 Resorts
Ability: Intermediate to Expert
This 8-day tour takes in 3 of Argentina, Patagonia’s best ski resorts. You will access terrain mostly via lifts with the opportunity for some backcountry ski/snowboard touring. Join a group on a fixed-date tour or create your own custom tour for your own private group.
Price p/p Price is per person twin-share inc taxes.
base/invoice currency is USD
Displayed prices might vary slightly to actual due to exchange rate fluctuations.
USD 3,600
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See all Safari (Road Trip) tours that visit South America here

Single-Base, Multi-Ski-Area Tours

Family Freeride & Backcountry Trip
FAMILY FREERIDE & BACKCOUNTRY TOUR
7 Nights | 8 Days | 6 Days Skiing
Ability: Intermediate to Expert
An experience your family will never forget: visiting the very edge of the world to enjoy one of the most beautiful sports surrounded by completely untouched, wild nature. Treat yourself and your family to this experience that few have been able to enjoy. Discover the wild south as a team.
Price p/p Sample price is based on 3 guests in group.
Base/invoice currency is USD
Displayed price might vary slightly from actual due to exchange rate fluctuations.
USD 3,990
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Explore Atacama & Valle Nevado
7 DAY TOUR (Unguided) ex SANTIAGO
Private groups only | 2 Night, 3 Days
Ability: Beginner to Expert
This incredible tour is one of extreme contrasts with half of the week spent exploring the Atacama desert and the other half skiing at Santiago's largest ski resort; Valle Nevado. Do it now or add it to your bucket list!
Price p/p From price based on 2 guests booked (cheaper for larger group of up to 8)
Base/invoice currency is in USD inc taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
Enquire Enquire
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See all Single-Base, Multi-Ski-Area tours that visit South America here

Single-Base, Single-Ski-Area Tours

Chile Powder Sessions
GUIDED OFF-PISTE & BC ADVENTURE
10 Nights | 7 Days Skiing | Nevados de Chillan
Ability: Strong Intermediate to Expert
Nevados de Chillan is a relatively unknown resort noted for its abundant snowfalls and amazing backcountry terrain. This guided 11 day tour will enable you to become intimate with this incredible volcano whilst incorporating some fabulous Chilean culture, food & wine.
Price p/p From price based on twin/double-share room, min 4 guests on tour (per person) for 2024
Base/invoice currency is in USD inc taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 4,065
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BC Portillo Week
PORTILLO RESORT & FREERIDE TOUR
7 Nights | 8 Days | 7 Days Skiing
Ability: Advanced to Expert
Experience skiing like never before at a world-renowned classic destination. Immerse yourself in the best of the best with top-notch snow quality, daring runs, and stunning panoramic views. And when the day is done, treat yourself to luxury accommodation.
Price p/p Base/invoice currency is USD
Displayed price might vary slightly from actual due to exchange rate fluctuations.
USD 5,490
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See all Single-Base, Single-Ski-Area tours that visit South America here

Ski & Snowboard Camp Tours

Argentina Ski & Snowboard Weeks
GUIDED OFF-PISTE & BACKCOUNTRY TRIP
4 x 8-Day Sessions
Ability: Advanced to Expert
SGT's program at Cerro Catedral (Bariloche) provides a guided sidecountry & backcountry experience for adults as well as camps for college students and 15-18 year old shredders. Aimed at advanced + skiers & boarders, this tour has a progression element to it.
Price p/p From price based on adult rate, twin/double-share room occupancy for 2023.
Base/invoice currency is in USD inc taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 3,395
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See all Ski & Snowboard Camp tours that visit South America here

Backcountry Skiing Tours

Sled Access Backcountry Skiing
SLED ACCESS BACKCOUNTRY SKIING & RIDING
Bariloche Argentina
Ability: Strong Intermediate to Expert
Backcountry snowmobile skiing and snowboarding. Full Argentine adventure experience & stay in a rustic mountain refugio that offers magnificent views. 3-7 day packages that include guided sled skiing, lodging, gourmet cuisine, drinks, and transport.
Price p/p From price based on 3 night plus 3 ski day package for 2024
Base/invoice currency is in USD inc taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 3,600
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Chile´s Iconic Volcanoes
GUIDED BACKCOUNTRY TOUR
9 Days | 8 Nights
Ability: Strong Intermediate to Expert
Embark on a thrilling journey through northern Patagonia, skiing iconic volcanoes like Osorno and Villarrica. Experience spring skiing, savor local cuisine, unwind in hot springs, & indulge in the rich flavors of local wines. Discover Chile's unique blend of adventure & culture on this unforgettable volcanic escapade! Share
Price p/p Price is per person twin-share.
base/invoice currency is USD
Displayed prices might vary slightly to actual due to exchange rate fluctuations.
USD 3,450
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 Book by March 31, 2024 & take 5% off advertised price
Chile Volcano Ski Touring
SKI TOURING CHILE VOLCANOES
9 Days | Customizable Itinerary
Ability: Strong Intermediate to Expert
On this tour, you will climb to the top of some of Chile's most spectacular volcanoes & ski back down to the low-lands. Some afternoons you will visit relaxing hot springs & along the way you will experience South American cities & towns. PRIVATE GROUPS of 2 - 6 guests or join a fixed date tour as a solo/small group
Price p/p Price is per person based on 9-day tour with min group of 4
Base/invoice currency is USD inc tax
*displayed price may vary slightly due exchange rate fluctuations
USD 3,200
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See all Backcountry Skiing tours that visit South America here

Heli Skiing Tours

Andes Heli Ski Packages
HELISKI CHILE'S BEST TERRAIN
4 Nights | 3 Days Heliskiing
Ability: Strong Intermediate to Expert
This deluxe package is ideal for those that have limited time yet want to experience the best powder and terrain in Chile in just a few days. Available for private & mixed group tours. The package includes 3 days of heli-skiing, avo safety gear, use of skis/snowboard, 4 nights of luxury lodging, transfers, meals & more
Price p/p From price based on group of 8 (price per person) with 9 hours flying time
Base/invoice currency is in EURO inc taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 8,424
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Classic Heli Ski Package
HELISKI CHILE'S BEST TERRAIN
7 Nights | 6 Days Heliskiing
Ability: Strong Intermediate to Expert
If you are looking for an epic week of heli skiing in the Chilean Andes, this could be the tour for you! Available for semi private groups of 8 or private groups of 4. This package includes 6 days of heli-skiing, avo safety gear, use of skis/snowboard, 7 nights of luxury lodging, transfers, meals & more
Price p/p From price based on semi-private - 2 groups of 4 - 12 hrs fly time (price per person)
Base/invoice currency is in USD inc taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 14,000
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Day Heli Skiing Packages
SINGLE DAY HELI-SKIING | UP TO 6 or 8 RUNS
(1:30 - 2:00 hrs of flight)
Ability: Strong Intermediate to Expert
Experience an incredible day or two of heliskiing in Argentina. This is one of the few heli operators in South America that offers day heli skiing. Private groups of 4 or 8 are most economical.
Price p/p Displayed price is based on per person in a private group of 4.
Base/invoice currency is USD
Displayed price may vary slightly due to exchange rate fluctuations.
USD 2,000
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See all Heli Skiing tours that visit South America here

Cat Skiing Tours

Baguales Cat Skiing
ARGENTINA (BARILOCHE) SNOWCAT SKIING
From 2 Nights / 2 Days
Ability: Strong Intermediate to Expert
If you are heading to the Bariloche area you can't go past a couple of days of cat skiing at Baguales Mountain Reserve or mix it up with some touring. Day cat skiing from Bariloche is also a possibility although the rustic Baguales Lodge is a quintessential part of the experience as is the cuisine & service.
Price p/p From price based on 2 days cat skiing + 2 nights quad-room with shared bathroom - Shoulder season July & Sept).
Base/invoice currency is in USD inc taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 1,440
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Ski Arpa Portillo Express
ARPA CAT SKIING - PORTILLO EXTENSION
1 Night Lodging | 1 Day Cat Skiing
Ability: Strong Intermediate to Expert
The ultimate way to finish a week at Portillo and maximise your ski time in Chile. Stay an extra night en-route to Santiago Airport and ski 10,000 - 15,000 vertical feet of freshies with Arpa Cat Skiing.
Price p/p From price is per person based on twin/double-share room (group of 2) staying at Inca Hotel. Min 2 guests required to tour to operate.
Base/invoice currency is in USD inc taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 720
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Ultimate Ski Arpa Experience
MULTI-DAY SNOWCAT SKIING TOUR
2 Nights Lodging | 2 Days Cat Skiing
Ability: Strong Intermediate to Expert
This tour includes approx 26,000 feet of vertical cat skiing, accommodation at the Inca Hotel in nearby Los Andes, daily breakfast and transfers to/from Santiago as well as to/from El Arpa from the hotel.
Price p/p From price (current for 2023 season) is per person based on twin/double-share room (group of 2) staying at Inca Hotel.
Base/invoice currency is in USD inc taxes.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.
USD 1,410
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See all Cat Skiing tours that visit South America here