Winter tourism in Santiago de Chile

Winter in Santiago de Chile gives us a white blanket of snow that transforms the landscapes into dream scenes. With the winter season in full swing in 2024, it's the perfect time to explore the wonders that snow has to offer near the bustling metropolis. From the exciting ski slopes to the relaxing thermal baths, you can enjoy all the best of the cold weather in the city.

3 one-day snow tours from Santiago de Chile

Valle Nevado

Just 60 kilometers east of Santiago, Valle Nevado is one of the most popular ski centers in the country. At more than 3,000 meters above sea level, this destination offers ski and snowboard slopes for all skill levels. But, in addition to its excellent sports offer, it has a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and shops to enjoy after a day of exercise on the slopes.

El Colorado

Right next to Valle Nevado is El Colorado, a ski resort known for its extensive slopes and lively atmosphere. With a wide variety of runs for all levels, from beginner to expert, it's the perfect place for those looking to learn and challenge their snow skills. It also offers other quieter activities, such as snowshoeing and snowmobiling.

Ski Portillo

Less than two hours by car from Santiago, this is one of the most emblematic ski centers in Chile, due to its impressive landscape beauty. Its exclusive and elegant atmosphere attracts skiers, snowboarders, and tourists from all over the world. It is special for those who already have experience in winter sports. If you go, dare to go down its legendary La Copa slope, to get a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Our apartments in Santiago have all the comforts so that you can leave your belongings quietly while you enjoy the snow and, when you arrive, find the warmth and privacy of home. Learn about the options available here.

Snow activities with children: places to enjoy with the family

Farellones

In the same area as Valle Nevado you find Farellones, a charming mountain town that offers a quieter and more picturesque experience. Here, visitors can enjoy activities like sledding, tubing, and snowshoeing, ideal for families and people looking for a more relaxed winter adventure. In addition, Farellones has cozy accommodations and restaurants that provide an authentic mountain experience.

Chillan spa

If you are looking for a place to enjoy the heat on cold days, and even relax after a few days in pure snow, the Chillán Hot Springs is the perfect destination. They are a little further from the capital, about six hours south of Santiago, but they offer an ideal setting to rest and recover, as they not only have hot spring pools but also spa treatments, trekkings, and massages. Ideal to visit with the family!

5 tips to enjoy snow tourism to the fullest without neglecting yourself

Wear appropriate clothing

The key to enjoying the snow is to dress in layers with appropriate clothing. The ideal thing to do is not only to buy or rent warm and waterproof suits but also with UV filters in the lower layer garments so that, when you warm up, you are covered from the sun which, as you well know, in the snow burns much more.

Sun protection, every two hours

The sun burns stronger every day, and in the snow and high in the mountains, way much more! You should try to bring enough sunscreen for the whole family, with strong protection, ideally greater than 50 SPF, and apply it every 2 hours on all exposed areas, not just the face: neck, ears, and hands also count! Also, if you can, buy or rent special snow sports sunglasses, whose glass comes with eye protection.

Stay hydrated, even if it's cold!

Cold, dry air can cause dehydration, so make sure you drink enough water throughout the day, especially if you are doing physical activities. Very often, in these situations, we always choose hot chocolate or coffee, but it is not the best, since they are drinks that, due to their components, tend to dehydrate us even more. Make sure you drink enough water (even if it's cold!) to avoid dehydration.

Please, respect the safety rules and recommendations

Familiarize yourself with the safety regulations of mountain climates and the slope you are going to and follow the instructions of the professionals. Safety is always the priority when it comes to winter sports. And, please, be aware of your possibilities: do not go to difficult slopes if you do not feel safe, or keep doing physical activity if you already feel your body tired. It is always better to prevent than to cure!

Last but not least: book in advance

None of the advice we have given you up to this point will help you if you can't get into the ski centers because you forgot to get your ticket in advance! During the peak winter season, ski resorts and lodges can fill up quickly, so book your activities and accommodations in advance to ensure a smooth experience. Keep in mind that the slopes near Santiago are very well-known and welcome snow lovers from all over the world in the winter season.

Snow tourism in Santiago, a one-way dream!



You now have all the basic information you need to be able to enjoy a week of Chilean snow and its amazing landscapes. All you have to do is choose your accommodation, book a car, and enjoy!

Discover the options for fully furnished apartments with all the amenities to enjoy getting away from Santiago without missing anything about this great city.