Chile has established itself as one of South America's premier winter sports destinations, thanks to its privileged geography and the quality of its snow. With the arrival of the 2026 season, mountain resorts are preparing with new facilities, promotions, and programs designed especially for those who want to learn to ski or snowboard, or simply enjoy the scenery.
Furthermore, the rise of domestic and sustainable tourism has encouraged many Chilean families to rediscover the Andes as a space for sport, adventure and relaxation.
Top ski resorts in Chile 2026
The Chilean winter season, which runs from June to September, offers numerous options for both experts and beginners. Here are some of the most outstanding resorts:
Snowy Valley
Located just 60 km from Santiago, Valle Nevado is the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere. It offers more than 40 slopes, group and private lessons, and a wide range of hotels.
Estimated 2026 prices: Adult day pass from $75,000 CLP.
Ideal for: beginners and families.
Fact: It offers discounts on early booking packages starting in April.
The Parva
Famous for its panoramic views of the central valley, La Parva combines skiing, snowboarding and mountain gastronomy.
Prices 2026: Daily pass from $70,000 CLP.
Advantage: proximity to Santiago and excellent access.
The Colorado
With over 100 interconnected tracks, El Colorado is a favorite among young people and athletes.
Prices 2026: Adult daily ticket from $68,000 CLP.
Attraction: snowparks and sporting events throughout the season.
Chillán Snow-capped Mountains
Located in the Ñuble Region, Nevados de Chillán stands out for combining natural hot springs and snow .
Prices 2026: Daily pass from $60,000 CLP.
Ideal for: family tourism and post-ski relaxation.
Corralco
In the Araucanía Region, Corralco has become a benchmark for sustainable tourism.
Prices 2026: Daily pass from $58,000 CLP.
Appeal: protected natural environment and fewer crowds.
Tips for beginners in winter sports
If this will be your first winter in the snow, keep the following practical tips in mind before heading up the mountain:
Start with basic classes
The centers offer introductory skiing and snowboarding courses, ideal for getting familiar with the technique and safety.Choose the right clothes
Wear several layers, waterproof gloves, a hat, and UV sunglasses. You don't need to buy everything new: many centers offer complete equipment rentals.Hydrate and take care of your skin
The cold and the altitude can dry out your skin. Always wear sunscreen and carry water.Arrive early
You'll avoid queues and make better use of the slopes with fresh snow.Don't put pressure on yourself to make rapid progress.
Progression in winter sports is gradual. The important thing is to enjoy the process and the views.
New products and trends for the 2026 season
The 2026 season promises to bring several new features worth following:
Beginner programs : resorts like Valle Nevado and Corralco will include special "first day of skiing" packages with lessons, equipment and ticket included.
Sustainable tourism : the use of shared transport and the reduction of plastic in mountain areas will be encouraged.
International events : FIS competitions are expected to take place at the El Colorado center, which will attract athletes from all over the world.
Smart accommodation : some mountain hotels will incorporate artificial intelligence to optimize heating and reduce energy consumption.
You can follow more related news on the CalendarioChile.com blog, where tourism updates and regional events are published.
When to plan your winter trip
The best time to travel depends on the type of experience you're looking for:
June – start of season : lower prices, ideal for those looking to learn with fewer people.
July and August – peak season : abundant snow and lively atmosphere, perfect for family holidays.
September – end of season : milder conditions and special promotions.
To ensure better prices, it is advisable to book accommodation and transport from March or April .
Alternatives to traditional sports
Besides skiing and snowboarding, Chile offers other highly sought-after winter experiences:
Snowshoeing.
Mushing or dog sledding in the southern area.
Photograph of snowy landscapes in the Los Lagos Region.
Winter gastronomic routes with typical dishes such as stews and curantos.
These activities are an excellent option for those who want to enjoy the snow without having to practice demanding sports.
How to get to the main ski resorts
| Center | Region | Distance from Santiago | Recommended transport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snowy Valley | Metropolitan | 60 km | Car or private transfer |
| The Parva | Metropolitan | 55 km | Car or shared transfer |
| The Colorado | Metropolitan | 52 km | Private car or tourist bus |
| Chillán Snow-capped Mountains | Ñuble | 480 km | Train + bus or flight to Concepción |
| Corralco | Araucanía | 700 km | Flight to Temuco + private transfer |
Winter tourism for all tastes
The Chilean winter has become synonymous with adventure, sport, and well-being. Whether you're looking to glide down the slopes, relax in hot springs, or simply admire the Andean landscape, Chile 2026 offers an unparalleled experience .
For more travel ideas and special dates, check out other articles on CalendarioChile.com/blog , such as “Summer Destinations in Chile 2026” or “Accessible Tourism in Chile” , perfect for planning your next getaways.