South America may not be the first thing that comes to mind when talking about popular ski destinations, but the Andes Mountains provides a spectacular setting with stretches of steep snow-clad slopes and rugged terrain. Most of the continent’s best ski resorts are in Chile and Argentina. These two countries provide a wide range of options, from bustling ski towns suitable for families to laid-back resorts for the hardcore skier. These destinations guarantee ample fun on powder-coated slopes and ensure a comfortable stay away from crowds. The skiing season usually starts in June and ends in mid-October. Are you planning a ski trip to this continent soon? Read on for the best ski resorts in South America.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to ski slopes and equipment. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on {{date}}.
1. Valle Nevado, Chile
Apart from beach resorts in Chile, an ideal choice for a family getaway is the famous all-year Valle Nevado ski village. It sits on the western side of the Andes in Chile at nearly 3,025 m (9,925 ft) above sea level. It is part of ‘Tres Valles’, which includes the ski resorts of El Colorado and La Parva.
Valle Nevado is among the best ski resorts in South America. It is a well-developed resort with ample facilities, including a hotel-condominium complex, several restaurants, cafes, and bars. It offers nearly 890 ha (2,200 ac) of skiing terrain with runs suitable for skiers of all levels. It features 14 lifts, and adult tickets start at 54,000 CLP (65 USD). Valle Nevado is mainly known for its breathtaking heli-skiing opportunities. This village is easily reachable from Santigo, located around 60 km (37 mi).
Valle Nevado
Address: Avenida Vitacura 5250 of. 304, Vitacura, Región Metropolitana, Chile
Price: from 270 USD
Star Rating: 4 Star
Travelers Review: Excellent 4.7(from 7,198 reviews)
2. Cerro Castor, Argentina
Known as the southernmost ski resort in the world and one of the best places to ski in South America, Cerro Casto in Argentina is around 26 km (16 mi) from the city of Ushuaia. Set on the slopes of Mount Krund, this resort is lesser known than the neighboring Cerro Catedral, perfect for skiers who avoid large crowds.
It offers nearly 648 ha (1,600 ac) of skiable terrain with 33 marked trails, most of which are suitable for beginner and intermediate levels. There are 12 ski lifts, including 4 quad ones. Castor Ski Lodge, the accommodation option in the area, offers cozy lodges and cabanas.
Cerro Castor
Address: Ruta Nacional 3, V9410VDF Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina
Travelers Review: Excellent 4.7(from 4,526 reviews)
3. La Parva, Chile
Looking for the best places to visit in Chile? The middle resort of ‘Tres Valles’ or 'Three Valleys’, La Parva is a favorite option for the best skiing experience in South America. It is around 50 km (31 mi) from Chile’s capital Santiago.
This resort stands at 2,750 m (885 ft) above sea level and offers a skiable area of around 1,000 ha (2,471 ac), with 15 ski lifts. Tickets for adults start at 37,000 CLP (45 USD). La Parva has runs for all levels of skiing expertise, from beginners right up to seasoned experts. It also provides plenty of facilities for apres-ski fun.
La Parva
Address: Luis Carrera 1263, Of. 402, Vitacura, Lo Barnechea, Región Metropolitana, Chile
Travelers Review: Excellent 4.6(from 1,595 reviews)
4. Antillanca, Chile
Wondering where to ski in South America? An off-the-beaten-track option, Antillanca is a small ski resort within Puyehue National Park in southern Chile. It boasts a unique location at the foot of a volcano. The nearest city is Osorno, which is around 98 km (61 mi) away.
This resort offers nearly 400 ha (988 ac) of ski terrain and 5 lifts. There are 14 trails suitable for intermediate or expert skiers. In terms of accommodation, Antillanca offers a hotel with ski-in, ski-out access, and a few eateries.
Antillanca
Address: Puyehue, Los Lagos, Chile
Travelers Review: Excellent 4.8(from 28 reviews)
5. Araucarias - Volcán Llaima, Chile
Araucarias ski centre sits on the western slopes of one of Chile’s most active volcanoes, Llaima. This resort is within Conguillío National Park and is approximately 82 km (51 mi) from the city of Temuco.
It offers a ski area of around 350 ha (864 ac) and 10 trails, most of which are for intermediate to advanced skiers. There are four chair lifts available. The resort provides lodgings, restaurants and bars.
Araucarias - Volcán Llaima
Address: Cherquenco, Vilcun, Araucania, Chile
Travelers Review: Excellent 4.6(from 347 reviews)
6. Portillo Ski Resort, Chile
An iconic skiing destination in Chile, Portillo is a favourite of avid skiers for its exciting steep slopes. It is a ski-in, ski-out centre that comprises a hotel complex where visitors can enjoy all-inclusive packages with accommodations, lift passes and meals. This resort has a limit of 450 guests per day, so everyone can ski safely and maximize their time on the slopes.
Portillo is around 64 km (40 mi) away from Santiago and sits at 2,880 m (9,449 ft) above sea level. It offers nearly 500 ha (1,236 ac) of skiable terrain, with 35 slopes and 17 trails mostly suitable for intermediate to expert skiers.
Portillo Ski Resort
Address: Renato Sánchez, Las Condes, Región Metropolitana, Chile
Travelers Review: Excellent 4.6(from 30 reviews)
Experience an unforgettable ski vacation in South America
Skiiers in search of thrills on the slopes will find that South America offers plenty of excitement. There are several resorts in various countries that come with excellent facilities and amenities. Choose from this list of best ski resorts in South America for your next winter vacation.
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