Portillo

About Portillo

If there’s a grandfather of South American skiing, Portillo’s it. Skiing came to the area as early as 1890, and Portillo served as host to the 1966 World Championships for alpine racing. Portillo’s very low humidity combined with a 9,350-foot base altitude assures an ideal climate for producing legendary dry snow. Those in search of unbeatable views will love the resort’s setting next to the breathtaking Inca Lake, its moon-like landscape of rock and snow and its proximity to the Western Hemisphere’s tallest mountain, Aconcagua.

If you’re looking for a ski vacation like no other, something entirely different from the norm, you’ll want to investigate Portillo. South America's best-known ski resort is set far above treeline in the desolate Andes mountains, which makes for a moon-like landscape of rock and snow. 

Portillo ski vacation is a top choice for vacationers looking for convenience, too. While Portillo may not be the easiest place to get to, once you're there you can relax and only worry about what time you're going to wake up and get yourself in the lift. Lodging, lift tickets and meals are included, so there’s really no need to ever leave the main base area hotel. The hotel offers one employee to every guest, so you can expect an incredibly attentive level of service on a Portillo ski vacation. And, since off-mountain activities are centered on the hotel, Portillo offers a fun and intimate après-ski scene. Everyone will be friends after a week or two in Portillo.

How to get to Portillo

Getting to Portillo is a breeze—just a two-hour drive from Santiago (about 91 miles). Upon arriving to Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL), take the Vespucio Norte Highway west, then hop onto the Autopista Los Libertadores Highway. Follow the signs for Portillo, skipping the turnoff to Ciudad de los Andes, and you’ll be on your way to one of South America's most legendary ski resorts. The scenic drive through the Andes is the perfect warm-up to your Portillo adventure! Another interesting airport option is the Governor Francisco Gabrielli International Airport (MDZ). While technically closer than Santiago, traveling from Mendoza requires crossing the Argentina-Chile border, which can introduce delays due to customs and immigration processes. Additionally, the pass can be affected by weather conditions, especially during winter months, potentially impacting travel times.

Everything you need is within walking distance of the iconic Hotel Portillo, including ski lifts, dining, and après-ski activities. With only 450 guests at the resort, the slopes are uncrowded, and there are no long lift lines. Families can enjoy a stress-free experience, with kids' ski lessons and activities conveniently located just steps away from the hotel.

Skiing in Portillo

From the simplest beginner’s area to awe-inspiring powder chutes, Portillo has a wide variety of slopes. Eighty percent of the Portillo skiing terrain is groomed daily, and because there are so few guests, experts can enjoy Portillo’s famous powder days without worrying about everything getting tracked out by mid-afternoon. Expert skiers can take on Portillo's ultimate thrill: climbing to the famed wilds of the resort’s hike-to, off-piste terrain. The route takes adventurous skiers and snowboarders above the base area lodge and up a 30-degree face to the statue of the Christ of the Andes, and down a nine-mile run. Ski trails spread in all directions and the lifts start right outside the hotel door, so you can just put on your skis and go!

Beginner Skiing in Portillo, Chile

Portillo offers some of the best beginner skiing in the Southern Hemisphere, ideal for first-timers and families. The resort provides easy access to uncrowded, gentle slopes, and features skilled, multilingual ski instructors. The beginner-friendly terrain, including green runs like Corralito, La Princesa, and El Puma, is perfect for mastering basic techniques like stopping, controlling speed, and making turns.

For children as young as 3, Portillo’s Kids' Camp and the Corralito Magic Carpet area offer a fun, safe environment to start skiing. Teens and adults alike can benefit from Portillo’s expert ski pros, making it a great place to build confidence and learn in a social and supportive atmosphere. Off-slope amenities such as yoga classes, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool provide relaxation after a day on the slopes, ensuring an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Family vacations in Portillo

Ski Portillo is an ideal destination for family ski vacations, offering a blend of crowd-free slopes, top-tier ski school, and fun activities for all ages. The resort's family-friendly atmosphere ensures a stress-free experience in the stunning Andes Mountains, with everything centered around the iconic Hotel Portillo. Parents can easily drop their kids off at ski school, while enjoying some time on the slopes themselves. With only 450 people at the resort, parents can relax knowing their kids are safe on uncrowded trails.

Portillo's Kids Camp offers ski and snowboard lessons for children ages four to six, while professional childcare services ensure the little ones are entertained with games, crafts, and outdoor activities. The resort also provides daycare for children ages one to seven, along with private babysitting options. Beyond skiing, kids can enjoy the game room with pool, ping-pong and foosball tables, as well as the Kids Bar for snacks. With organized family activities, a cinema and family apartments, Ski Portillo offers everything needed for an unforgettable family ski adventure.