Are you and your friends looking to spice up your next vacation and take an adventure travel trip to the next level? Dig out your sweaters, wax your skis or snowboards, and consider a trip to the Southern Hemisphere this summer (or fall!). Opposite seasons mean that late June through September the skiing in Chile and Argentina is perfect, and there is no better way to cool off than chasing winter itself. Whether your crew is made up of die-hard riders, or those looking to mix some relaxing into their ski vacation, these resorts in Chile and Argentina have something for everyone.
Nevados De Chillan, Chile
photo: Adam Clark
Portillo, Chile
If your group is looking for stunning views, and a smaller resort feel, then look no further than Ski Portillo. Fly into Santiago and take a private shuttle about two hours up into the mountains along the Chile/Argentine border.
Completely above treeline, Ski Portillo has over 1,200 acres of skiable terrain and powder that lasts your whole vacation. Unique Poma lifts give you unparalleled access to steep terrain and chutes, while their other traditional lifts access long, smooth groomers. If you’re looking to ski in the backcountry, the Super C Couloir is a long trek, but well-known by skiers around the world.
On the shores of the Laguna del Inca is Hotel Portillo – your one stop shop for your trip. Dine, drink, and relax – there are as many activities as a cruise ship. Whether your crew prefers the hot tub, yoga, gym, or live music- there are options for everyone. Don’t miss a top of the world lunch at Tio Bob’s – delicious food paired with a glass of wine and a birds-eye view of the hotel and lake is hard to beat!
Nevados De Chillan, Chile
photo: Adam Clark
Las Trancas, Chile
About 6 hours south of the Chilean capital Santiago lies Valle Las Trancas, nestled inland at the base of active Volcano Chillan. Fly to Santiago International Airport and make a connection to Concepción (CCP), where you board a bus or private shuttle to mountain paradise of Las Trancas. Nevados de Chillan ski complex sits on this Volcano and offers 3,150ft (960m) of vertical terrain with more than 200 inches (500 cm) of average snowfall- one of the deepest snowpacks in its region.
Nevados De Chillan, Chile
photo: Adam Clark
Not only does Nevados de Chillan offer a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and riders, but the area also features unique backcountry access on the volcano. Gather up your backcountry gear and a guide, and your crew can hike to the top of the volcano – long descents, fresh powder, and backcountry Mecca that would take a full season to explore await you.
Once you’re finished skiing powder, head on over to Termas de Chillan – some of Chile’s best hot springs – where your crew can aprés a different way. Whether you’re into laying-low or hitting the discotheque, Valle Las Trancas has options for everyone. Check out this Chile Ski or Snowboard trip package and travel stress-free once you’re down there!
Nevados De Chillan, Chile
photo: Adam Clark
Bariloche, Argentina
If you’ve been considering a ski or snowboard trip to Argentina, look no further than Bariloche. With the biggest resort in South America and a lively town, Bariloche has something for everyone and won’t let your group down. Fly right into San Carlos de Bariloche Airport via Buenos Aires and take a quick cab to your accommodations right down the road.
Cerro Catedral ski area is the main center in Bariloche, but there are three others – Alta Patagonia, Cerro Bayo, and La Hoya – if you’re looking to mix it up. Cerro Catedral features 3,280 ft (1,000m) of vertical drop and around 1,500 acres of skiable terrain. With an average snowfall of 300 inches (760 cm), whether you choose from the 38 lifts the resort has to offer, or hire a guide to check out the vast backcountry, your group is bound to find fresh snow.
The fun doesn’t stop on-hill, either. With a plethora of food, drink, and disco options, there’s something for everyone when the sun goes down. Whether it’s a beer at Cerveceria Patagonia or a seven-course meal at Butterfly, dress up, dress down, but don’t let your crew skip downtown Bariloche!
Las Lenas, Argentina
Known for its steep terrain and chutes, Las Lenas is for the group that is looking to challenge themselves. Fly from Buenos Aires into Mendoza or San Rafael, Argentina, and book a bus or private transfer to Las Lenas. With almost 4,000 feet (1,100 m) of vertical drop and over 250 inches (635cm) of annual snowfall – there’s burly terrain both inbounds and out of bounds. These are the kinds of mountains that the brand Patagonia was inspired by.
Most well-known is the Marte Chair, which accesses a majority of the resort’s expert runs. Those looking for a variety of other terrain can try out cat skiing, or hiring a backcountry guide to make the most of their endeavors.
The small village around the resort was built in the 80s and offers a bus line to access the restaurants, casinos, hotels, and other nightlife in town. If nightlife is your thing, the parties will rage on from 2 – 6am some mornings, so relish the lifts staying open until 5 and don’t feel bad if you need an evening nap.
Now that you’re dreaming of powder, hot springs, and nightlife, get your crew together and plan your summer getaway. There’s no better way to cool off and prepare for next winter than getting buried in powder with your friends.
