The Best Ski Resorts in Chile and Argentina | Ski.com

Didn’t get your fill of powder this winter? You still have time – ski season is just getting started south of the equator. While North American resorts are winding down for the year, the Andes are gearing up for deep snow, wide-open slopes, and some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the world. With legendary resorts in Argentina and Chile offering world-class terrain, cozy alpine lodging, and a rich cultural experience, your endless winter adventure awaits.

Top Ski Resorts in Chile

1. Portillo, Chile

Location: Andes Mountains, about 2.5 hours from Santiago

Skiable Terrain: 1,235 acres

Lifts: 14

Average Snowfall: 200 inches

Peak Elevation: 10,860 feet

Tucked high in the Andes Mountains and overlooking the stunning, glacial-blue Lake of the Inca, Portillo is one of South America’s most iconic ski resorts – and for good reason. With just 450 resort guests allowed on the mountain per day and a cap on the number of day tickets sold, lift lines are non-existent, and fresh tracks last well into the afternoon. The resort’s 1,235 acres of terrain cater to everyone from families to big-mountain thrill-seekers, with 80% groomed daily for perfect corduroy turns. 

At the heart of it all is the majestic Hotel Portillo, where the service is as refined as the Chilean wine selection. Pair bottomless powder days with gourmet dining, jaw-dropping alpine views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and you’ve got one of the most exclusive ski experiences in the world.

How to get to Portillo: Fly into Santiago International Airport (SCL), and from there, it’s just a scenic two-hour drive to Portillo. You can rent a car—perfect if you’re planning to explore multiple resorts—or sit back and relax on a convenient shuttle transfer straight to the slopes.

5 Reasons to Ski Portillo From Our Travel Experts:

• Perfect for groups with riders of all levels
• Limited daily skiers = fresh tracks on powder days
• All-inclusive ski vacation
• Home to the famous "Va et Vient" lift, designed for steep terrain
• Impressive lake and alpine views 
  

2. Valle Nevado, Chile

Location: Tres Valles (Three Valleys) in the Andes, 2 hours from Santiago

Skiable Terrain: 7,000 acres

Lifts: 164

Average Snowfall: 321 inches

Peak Elevation: 12,038 feet

Located in the heart of the Chilean Andes, Valle Nevado is the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere, offering an expansive 34 square miles of high-altitude, powder-filled terrain. As part of the Tres Valles, which includes La Parva and El Colorado, you’ll have access to over 7,000 acres of interconnected skiing with just one lift ticket. And for the ultimate adventure, Valle Nevado offers some of the best heli-skiing in South America, delivering untouched powder – and jaw-dropping views – deep in the Andean wilderness.

You won’t want to miss the resort’s annual Wine Festival (August 18-24), where you can sip and savor selections from Chile’s top wineries, from world-renowned labels to boutique hidden gems. With guided tastings, wine education, and lively après-ski parties, it’s the perfect way to unwind after a day carving up the Andes.

How to get to Valle Nevado: Just two hours from Santiago, Valle Nevado is easy to reach by rental car or convenient shuttle service right to the resort.

5 Reasons to Ski Valle Nevado From Our Travel Experts:

• Easy access to 3 monumental mountains under 1 lift ticket
• World-class heli-skiing
• Largest ski resort in South America
• Wide-open terrain above the tree line
• Valle Nevado is on the Ikon Pass!
  

Top Ski Resorts in Argentina

3. Las Leñas, Argentina

Location: Mendoza Province, Argentina

Lifts: 14

Average Snowfall: 200 inches

Peak Elevation: 11,253 feet

Las Leñas is a hidden mountain paradise, known for its massive terrain and snow-making capabilities, ensuring great skiing no matter the weather. The resort website claims to have a staggering 7,500 skiable hectares (18,533 acres) – and it’s tough to define where the in-bounds terrain begins and ends – but what’s clear is that this resort is a playground for powder hounds and adventure seekers. 

While Las Leñas is famous for its steep, off-piste lines and extreme terrain, it also offers a variety of intermediate runs, with 45% of the terrain catering to cruisers. The resort boasts one of the longest slopes in the world, connecting three impressive runs. Getting here requires a bit of a journey, but the reward is worth it—no lift lines and endless powder to carve up. Just be aware that the resort can close during extreme weather, so plan for a longer stay to maximize your chances of ideal conditions. 

In this remote location, après-ski is all about unwinding at the on-site hotels, with a hostel at the base offering a budget-friendly option for those looking to stretch their trip. With few distractions off the slopes, Las Leñas delivers an unparalleled escape from the crowds and a true wilderness adventure.

How to get to Las Leñas: Most travelers will fly into Buenos Aires, about 700 miles east of Las Leñas. From there, take a local flight to Mendoza/Malargue (daily flights are available from Santiago as well). Once in Mendoza, you can book a shuttle to the resort. 

For those seeking a more adventurous route, renting a car in Buenos Aires offers the chance to embark on a colossal 11-hour road trip to Las Leñas. Budget-conscious travelers often opt for the ultra-comfortable overnight bus, which is both affordable and easy, though be prepared for a 14-16 hour trek. However you choose to get there, the journey is just part of the adventure!

5 Reasons to Ski Las Leñas From Our Travel Experts:

• Reliable high-quality fluffy powder!
• Epic off-piste and extreme skiing for adrenaline junkies
• No crowds, meaning fresh tracks all day long
• Remote mountain escape for solitude and adventure
• Convenient ski-in/ski-out lodging

4. Cerro Catedral (Bariloche), Argentina

Location: Huapí National Park in Patagonia (a World Heritage Site), 12 miles from San Carlos de Bariloche

Lifts: 28

Skiable Terrain: 2,965 acres

Average Snowfall: 236 inches

Peak Elevation: 7,152 feet above sea level

Nestled in northern Patagonia, San Carlos de Bariloche is a charming city that serves as the gateway to Argentina’s premier ski destination, Cerro Catedral. Known for its Gothic cathedral-like granite spires, Cerro Catedral stands as the only South American resort with a modern base village, offering a unique blend of convenience and mountain beauty. 

The resort is famed for its deep powder, killer tree skiing, and easily accessible off-piste terrain, with the La Laguna lift unlocking incredible backcountry chutes and bowls. After a day on the slopes, head to Bariloche for vibrant nightlife, delicious dining options, and endless chocolate shops – solidifying its status as the chocolate capital of Argentina.

How to get to Cerro Catedral: The resort is just 12 miles from the Bariloche Airport, making it a quick 30-minute drive or bus ride to the slopes.

5 Reasons to Ski Cerro Catedral From Our Travel Experts:

• Gorgeous views of Nahuel Huapi Lake
• Consistent deep snow
• Excellent tree skiing and easily accessible off-piste terrain
• Vibrant après-ski scene in Bariloche
• Next door to Argentina’s chocolate capital
  

What's the best month to ski in Chile and Argentina?

The best time to ski in the Andes is from mid-June to mid-September, with July being the prime month for consistent snowfall and ideal conditions. This is when the South American ski resorts are at their best, offering powder-filled runs and plenty of sunshine. However, keep in mind that late July marks the peak of the season, so you may encounter some crowds. But let’s be real – any true rider knows the ultimate time to hit the Andes is right after a fresh storm when the mountain is blanketed in untouched powder!

Is skiing in Chile or Argentina better?

Both Chile and Argentina offer incredible skiing adventures, but which destination is best depends on what you're after. Whether you're chasing deep powder, vibrant après-ski scenes, or a touch of cultural immersion, both countries deliver unforgettable ski trips.

Due to its geography, Chile tends to have lighter, drier powder, perfect for carving fresh tracks. For those craving untouched runs and heli-skiing, Chile’s Andean peaks are home to some of the world’s best terrain. Resorts like Portillo are particularly renowned for their exclusivity, lack of crowds, and epic powder-filled adventures.

On the other hand, Argentina is home to resorts like Cerro Catedral and Las Leñas offering exceptional off-piste skiing, deep powder, and fantastic tree skiing. Compared to Chile, Argentina provides more affordable options, from lift tickets to lodging and food, especially with the favorable exchange rate.

Whether you're after remote mountain escapes or high-octane runs, both destinations promise the ultimate ski getaway!

Ready to book the ultimate ski vacation in Chile or Argentina? Chat with our Mountain Travel Experts at 800-610-8911 or request a free custom quote.