Why do this tour?
The Central Andes offer:
- Big vertical close to Santiago
- High-altitude terrain with minimal infrastructure
- Technical ridgelines and aesthetic couloirs
- True backcountry immersion
This program focuses on:
- Efficient skinning technique
- Smooth transitions
- Avalanche awareness and snowpack reading
- Route finding in open alpine terrain
- Energy management over consecutive days
You don’t just ski descents — you learn how to operate in the Andes.
Overview
Location
Central Andes, Chile
Duration
5 days
Level
Advanced
Highest Point
4,500 M
Season
August - October
Grupo Size
min. 2 people
Price From
USD 4,500 per person
Dates
To be confirmed
Set in the vast landscapes of the Cajón del Maipo, this 5-day ski touring program delivers authentic high-altitude backcountry in Chile’s Central Andes.
Far from lift infrastructure, the terrain is expansive, dry, and exposed — defined by wide alpine basins, wind-shaped ridgelines, and long summit approaches rising well above 4,000 meters.
Unlike maritime snow climates, the Central Andes present a continental snowpack that demands strong terrain reading, disciplined pacing, and intelligent route selection.
Ascents are often sustained and vertical gain is significant, requiring efficient skinning technique and smooth transitions. Descents range from open volcanic-style faces to steeper couloirs and technical ridge entries, depending on seasonal conditions and group level.
Throughout the week, the focus goes beyond skiing lines. Participants refine avalanche awareness, decision-making in remote terrain, and multi-day energy management at altitude.
With each objective selected according to weather, access, and snow stability, the program simulates a true expedition environment — building both technical competence and confidence in the high Andes.
Trip Details
Day 1 — Santiago → Cajón del Maipo
- Transfer from Santiago to El Volcan Lodge (1.5–2 hrs)
- Welcome briefing & safety overview
- Equipment check (skins, bindings, crampons, avalanche gear, etc)
- Ski touring in Valle las Arenas Valley, first day of acclimatization
- Overnight in mountain refuge or lodge
Day 2 — Cerro Unión
- Early alpine start
- Progressive ascent of Cerro Unión (3,658 m)
- Skills focus:
- Kick turns
- Terrain assessment
- Snowpack discussion
- Technical descent adapted to group level (Depends on the snow conditions the guide will decide the line for decent)
- Enjoy a nice dinner at El Volcan Lodge
Day 3 — Ski touring in Colina Valley
- Breakfast at El Volcan Lodge
- Drive up to the snow level and start walking
- Ski touring around Punta Valdez summit (Depends on the snow conditions choose the best option)
- Back down and enjoy the afternoon in the Lo Valdez Hotsprings
- Overnight and dinner al El Volcan Lodge
Day 4 — Ski Touring around Embalse del Yeso Valley
- Early alpine start
- Alternative summit depending on conditions
- Enjoy a epic Ski Touring around the Embalse del Yeso Area
- Drive back to El Volcan Lodge
Day 5 — Final Morning Tour & Return
- Short summit push or freeride descent
- Return to refuge
- Transfer back to Santiago
- End of program
Included
- Certified UIAGM Mountain Guide
- Ratio 3 clients for 1 guide
- Accommodation in mountain refuge(s) or lodge
- Meals during the program (breakfast, packed lunch, dinner)
- Internal transport within Cajón del Maipo
- Safety equipment: Avalanche transceiver, Shovel, Probe, Harness & glacier gear if required
- Daily route planning and safety briefings
Not Included
- Personal ski touring equipment (skis, boots, skins, poles)
- International or domestic flights
- Travel & rescue insurance (mandatory)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tips for guides
An Unforgettable First
Ski Experience in Chile
Our first time in Chile — and our first ski experience in South America — became an unforgettable journey. The professionalism, warmth, and local knowledge of the guides made these days in the Chilean Andes truly exceptional. We came for the mountains, but we’ll remember the people most.
Practical
Info
Requirements
This is a physically demanding alpine ascent at high altitude (4,810 m). Participants must have strong endurance, previous basic alpine experience (crampons and ice axe), and the ability to sustain long summit days in exposed terrain.
Equipment
A complete alpine equipment kit is required, including mountaineering boots, crampons, ice axe, harness, helmet, and proper layering for high-altitude conditions. A detailed packing list is provided after booking confirmation.
Payment Conditions
A 50% deposit is required to secure your booking. The remaining balance must be paid 60 days before departure. Deposits are non-refundable and services are only confirmed once full payment has been received.
For full details, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
Cancellation
Client cancellations more than 60 days before departure are eligible for an 80% refund. Cancellations within 60 days are non-refundable. Weather, safety, or force majeure events do not generate refunds, but alternative programs may be offered.
See full policy in our Terms & Conditions.
Insurance
This is a physically demanding alpine ascent at high altitude (4,810 m). Participants must have strong endurance, previous basic alpine experience (crampons and ice axe), and the ability to sustain long summit days in exposed terrain.
F.A.Q.
Have questions about preparation, acclimatization, route conditions, or difficulty level? Visit our FAQ section or contact us directly — we are happy to guide you through the process.
