Chilean Volcano Skiing

Sample Itinerary:

Day 1 — ARRIVE in TEMUCO, DRIVE to PUCON

Travel to Temuco, Chile (ZCO) typically takes 14-24 hours from the US. Airport pickup and transfer to our lodging in Pucon (1.5 hr drive). Overnight in Pucon.

Day 2 – Ski Volcán Quetrupillán
Quetrupillán // Summit: 7,740 ft / 2,360 m | Vertical Ascent: 4,400 ft / 1,341 m

Just a short drive from Pucón, Quetrupillán lies between the Villarrica and Lanín volcanoes.

Day 3 — Ski Volcán Villarrica
Villarrica (9,380 ft / 2,860 m) | Vertical Ascent: 4,700 ft / 1,433 m

In the morning we drive south to Villarrica, the most popular volcano in the area—and also one of the most active. A strikingly symmetrical cone, it rises high above the town of Pucón and the waters of Lago Villarrica.

Day 4 — MALALCAHUELLO

In the morning we drive three hours north to the beautiful village of Malalcahuello.

This would be a shorter active rest day, which we can spend skiing in the resort https://www.corralco.com/ or soaking in hot springs. 

Day 5 — Ski Volcán Lonquimay
Lonquimay (9,400 ft / 2,865 m) | Vertical Ascent: 4,600 ft / 1,402 m

The day begins at the base of the Corralco ski area. Depending on energy levels, we can either climb entirely under our own power or use the lifts to gain access to the upper mountain. The final 1,500 feet follow a striking arête that leads directly to the summit. At the top, Lonquimay reveals a classic volcanic crater, which can be explored in good weather.

Day 6 — Ski Volcán Llaima or Sierra Nevada
Llaima (10,253 ft / 3,125 m) | Vertical Ascent: 6,000 ft
Sierra Nevada (8,379 ft / 2,554 m) | Vertical Ascent: 3,800–4,600 ft / 1,158–1,402 m

Both of these peaks anchor Conguillío National Park, and our choice for the day will depend on weather, snow conditions, and the elevation of the snow line—which determines how close we can drive to each trailhead. Either option promises an outstanding descent and a long, rewarding day in the mountains. As a point of interest, Llaima is one of Chile’s most active volcanoes, with its last eruption occurring in 2009. Overnight in Malalcahuello. 

Day 7 — LAGUNA DEL LAJA NATIONAL PARK

We drive north from Malalcahuello to a refugio at the base of Volcán Antuco (9,774’ / 2979m), a stunningly beautiful perfect cinder cone that rises above a majestic lake in Laguna del Laja National Park. Depending on weather and motivation levels, we may be able to sneak in an additional volcano ascent on this day. 

Day 8 — SKI VOLCÁN ANTUCO

Antuco  (9,774’ / 2979m)  |  vertical ascent: 5,100’ / 1554m

With a semi-alpine start we head up from the base of a small ski area on the northwest side of the mountain, gaining a broad shoulder that leads to the final summit pitches. Unparalleled summit views are followed by a huge descent.  Hang out by the lake in the afternoon. Overnight at the refugio.

Day 9 – RETURN TO TEMUCO

In the morning we return to La Araucanía International Airport for outbound flights

COST PP: $5,000

We stay in Haciendas and Air BnB's as we travel across Patagonia skiing 4 or more Volcanoes in an 8 day round trip adventure.  

• Climb and ski four or more Andean volcanoes in eight days:   

• Build your ski mountaineering knowledge with instruction and practice on fun and challenging terrain.

• Experience the beautiful landscapes and welcoming culture of Southern Chile.

• Our stays in comfy Chilean lodges combined with day ascents make this trip a truly unique experience of comfort and ski mountaineering!

Here is a breakdown of what that covers:

Note: The cost of your trip includes your land costs (excluding in-town meals)

WHAT'S INCLUDED PATAGONIA TOUR?

   • Meals on the mountain

• 8 nights lodging

   • Any necessary lift tickets

   • Scheduled transportation while in the countries we are visiting

   • Certified guides

 What's Not Included in the Patagonia Trip?

   • Flights to/from the city where the expedition begins

   • Additional nights in a hotel outside of the itinerary include but are not limited to extra hotel nights due to early summit bids and early departure from the mountains.

   • Visas

   • In-town meals

   • Immunizations

   • Tips for guides or local staff

   • Travel, rescue, or any other type of insurance

   • Hospitalization or evacuation costs

  • Alcohol

• Airport transportation for early arrival/late departures outside of the scheduled itinerary

   • The costs of delays or itinerary changes beyond ZG’s control