South American Ski Resorts

Skiing in South America offers a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s defined by dramatic Andean peaks, high-altitude snowfields and a rhythm of life that feels distinctly different from North America and Europe. As winters wrap up in the Northern Hemisphere, the ski season is just beginning in the Andes. Between June and October, ski resorts in Chile and Argentina come alive with visitors chasing powder. 

Chile and Argentina are home to some of the Southern Hemisphere’s most celebrated ski resorts, blending modern lift infrastructure with expansive terrain and deep Andean snowpacks. In Chile, resorts sit above the capital city of Santiago, offering access to steep alpine terrain and legendary storms. Across the border in Argentina, ski towns combine European-inspired charm with Patagonian wilderness.

A South American ski vacation in Chile or Argentina is different from any other ski vacation. It can involve skiing on volcanoes, extending trips to explore cities and wine regions and diving deep into rich culture. The vacations are fit for any ski level and any group, from families to couples. And while a ski vacation in South America is one you won’t forget, navigating new lift-ticket structures, flight schedules, cities and resorts can be confusing. Ski.com’s team of Mountain Travel Experts can eliminate the stress and confusion and send you off on a dream ski vacation and down ski slopes you won’t ever forget. 

The Southern Hemisphere’s ski season runs from June to October, making it a prime destination for those looking for a continuous winter. With most resorts opening in mid-June, our Experts recommend planning your South America ski vacation between mid-July and early September to take advantage of the region’s snow.

• June: June can be hit or miss. Some years, snowstorms dump massive amounts of snow. Other years, there isn’t an adequate snow base for backcountry exploring. While you can take advantage of lower season rates during June, our Experts recommend waiting, especially if you’re interested in backcountry skiing. 
• July: Early July can be a great time to visit as the ski season begins to pick up. Crowds haven’t arrived just yet, and the mountains are starting to form a deep base of snow. Late July, on the other hand, is the busiest time thanks to South American school holidays, so expect crowds and higher costs. 
• August: August is an ideal time for a South American ski vacation. Snow is great and bluebird days are plentiful. Many advanced and expert skiers try to time their trips around the Santa Rosa Storm, a legendary weather system typically expected in late August. This storm can lead to the most snowfall of the season, so planning trips around late August and early September can be rewarded with snow. 
• September: Temperatures are rising now, so depending on the year, skiers and snowboarders will likely experience a combination of powder, slush, and, if you’re lucky, corn snow, which is a beloved type of snow created when the snow freezes overnight and melts during the day. 

South American ski vacations fall into a “Goldilocks” price range. Compared to destinations like Switzerland, Colorado and Utah, South American ski trips are a steal. On the other hand, they’re not nearly as affordable as a ski trip to budget European destinations. 

One way skiers and snowboarders often save is through ski passes. Daily lift tickets typically cost between $115 and $140, but some South American ski resorts are featured on popular passes like Ikon and Epic. For example, international skiers can use the Ikon Pass or Mountain Collective Pass at Valle Nevado, making it a great way to save money on lift tickets. 

Lodging can vary widely between resorts, and flights can also range depending on where you travel and when you visit. 

A Mountain Travel Expert can help you maximize your budget in South America. Through tips and tricks like booking early and knowing accommodation options, they’ll create a dream ski vacation in your price range.