from $ 3590
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Central Andes Campervan Freeride & Ski Touring Week

Central Andes

An 8-day guided 4×4 campervan expedition combining resort freeride, lift-assisted backcountry, ski touring and one mechanized-access day. The mobile format allows us to move between Portillo, the Santiago ski areas, Cajón del Maipo and other zones offering the best snow.

Not Rated

Ski/riding ability

3/5 Intermediate-Advanced

BC touring experience

3/5 No experience

Fitness level

4/5 Gentle

Main Activity

Ski Touring / Splitboarding / Sled

Group size

8 people

Duration

8 Days / 5 days of skiing

WHY TO BOOK

• Combine freeride, lift-assisted backcountry, ski touring and sled skiing / snowboard
• Move between Central Andes zones according to the forecast
• Use a fully equipped 4×4 campervan as a mobile basecamp
• Access remote terrain with qualified bilingual local guides
• Explore iconic mountains and lesser-known local zones
• Travel in a private group of only 3 to 4 guests

Overview

Designed for advanced skiers and splitboarders, this trip combines the freedom of a winter road trip with the terrain knowledge of local backcountry guides. The campervan replaces fixed hotels and allows the group to relocate when a storm, wind event or temperature change favors another sector of the Central Andes.

The indicative route connects Portillo and the Los Andes Valley, the ski areas above Santiago and the deep valleys of Cajón del Maipo. Depending on conditions, ski days may include resort freeride, lift-assisted touring, car-accessed descents, full ski touring and one mechanized-access day using snowmobiles or a snowcat.

This is not a fixed checklist. The guide selects the zone and activity that offer the strongest combination of snow quality, safety and access each day. Meals are not included; guests purchase groceries and use the campervan kitchen or eat locally when available.

Backcountry Ski Touring

Full days of skinning uphill and skiing down in uncontrolled areas without mechanical lifts. The main goal is ski quality and descent.

 

Lift Assisted Backcountry

Using lifts to gain elevation and then ski touring to access the backcountry.

 

Sled Skiing

Snowmobile used for uphill access, without the need for skins.

Ski/riding ability

This trip is rated as 3/5 Intermediate-Advanced: Can ski steeper off-piste terrain in good conditions and less steep slopes in more variable conditions.

 

Backcountry touring experience

This trip is rated as 3/5 Moderate: Has significant experience, is familiar with equipment and ascent techniques, and can move independently. Has some knowledge of safety and avalanches.

 

Fitness level

This trip is rated as 4/5 Challenging: One or several demanding days of 5 to 8 hours of activity, with ascents of 1000 to 1500 m (3300 to 5000 ft) of elevation gain.

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Day 1 — Arrival, equipment check and departure from Santiago

Pickup from Santiago Airport (SCL) or a city hotel. We complete the safety briefing, inspect touring and avalanche equipment, buy groceries and drive toward the first zone selected by the forecast.

Days 2 to 4 — First snow zone

Three guided ski days in the best-performing sector, potentially Portillo, the Santiago resorts or another Central Andes destination. Activities may combine resort freeride, lift-accessed terrain and ski touring.

Day 5 — Recovery, resupply and relocation

A flexible rest or short-activity day used to move the campervan, resupply and position the group for the strongest conditions of the second half of the trip.

Days 6 to 7 — Touring and mechanized access

Two guided ski days, normally including one full ski touring objective and one mechanized-access day using snowmobiles or a snowcat when conditions and availability allow.

Day 8 — Return to Santiago

Pack the campervan and return to Santiago for an airport or hotel drop-off. Departure flights should be scheduled for the afternoon or evening, subject to the final route.

Logistics and guiding

• Qualified bilingual local backcountry guide(s)
• Lift tickets required for the planned resort-accessed ski days
• One mechanized-access day using snowmobiles or a snowcat, subject to final route and conditions
• Daily snow, weather, avalanche and route assessment

Lodging

• 7 nights in a shared, fully equipped 4×4 campervan
• Basic campervan kitchen, heating, power and camping equipment

• All meals, groceries, snacks and beverages
• Domestic and international flights
• Travel, medical and evacuation insurance
• Ski, snowboard and avalanche safety equipment
• Premium campsites, parking or services outside the planned itinerary
• Tips for guides and service staff
• Personal expenses and activities not listed as included

• Ski touring, splitboard and avalanche safety equipment rental
• Additional mechanized-access day
• Technical mountaineering equipment rental when required
• Premium or additional campervan, subject to availability
• Pre- or post-trip accommodation in Santiago
• Domestic and international flight booking assistance

Available on demand from August to September.

4 guests: from USD 3,390 per person
3 guests: from USD 4,090 per person

Rates are per person and based on one shared campervan. The published “from” rate is based on 4 guests. Final pricing depends on the vehicle, route and type of mechanized access used.

Accommodation is shared inside a winter-equipped 4×4 campervan. The format is intentionally simple and mobile, with limited space but maximum flexibility to move between valleys and mountain zones.

Vehicle model, interior layout and sleeping configuration may vary and will be confirmed before booking. Overnight locations are selected according to safety, access, weather and local regulations. Guests must be comfortable sharing compact living space and helping with simple campervan routines.

Some of the locations we visit are over 3,500 meters (11,500 ft.) above sea level.

This is not a fixed-destination itinerary. Resorts, valleys and the order of activities may change according to snow stability, weather, road access, operator availability and group performance.

Mechanized access is subject to operating conditions and third-party availability. When it cannot operate, the guide will replace it with the most appropriate ski touring or lift-assisted objective available. Guests must have previous touring experience and be able to ski variable off-piste snow confidently.

Here’s your packing list! If you get cold easily, bring extra layers. The right gear keeps you safe and makes the adventure more fun. The Andes weather can be harsh and change fast. 

Need something? We offer pro rentals and have a store to help you gear up—just let us know in advance!

GEAR

For skiers:

  • Skis, we suggest a ski waist width of 90-105 mm with regular alpine bindings
  • Ski poles
  • Ski boots

For boarders:

  • Snowboard and bindings, we suggest an all mountain board
  • Snowboard boots

 

  • Helmet recommended
  • Goggles with lenses for sun & low light
  • 20-30 liters pack, with compartments for avalanche gear and straps to carry skis or board.
  • Digital Avalanche Transceiver with 3 antennas
  • Shovel (Ideally UIAA certified)
  • Probe (Minimum length 240 cm)
  • Padded ski/board bag, we recommend one that has wheels

CLOTHING

  • Shoe/boot for off mountain and in town (that you don’t mind getting dirty)
  • Base layer top (Polypropylene or Merino wool)
  • Base layer bottom (Polypropylene or Merino wool)
  • Ski socks
  • Thin lightweight/packable down or synthetic jacket or vest
  • Thicker Down or synthetic jacket
  • Wind/waterproof shell with hood
  • Wind/waterproof snow pants
  • Casual clothes for off mountain
  • Bathing suit
  • Sandals, slippers or similar

ACCESSORIES

  • Sunscreen & lip balm
  • Neck gaiter, face mask or balaclava
  • Ski gloves and/or mitts
  • Warm hat
  • Water bottle or hydration system (capacity based on activity duration)
  • Energy bars and snacks
  • Sunglasses, Category 3-4 recommended
  • Sun hat
  • Toiletry bag with personal items

EXTRAS

  • Camera
  • Action Camera
  • Power bank
  • Spare batteries
  • Hand and toe warmers
  • Portable towel
  • Ear plugs
  • Personal first aid kit containing:
    • Pain and inflammation medications
    • Gastrointestinal medications
    • Prescription medicine
    • Moleskin or tape (for blisters) and band-aidsPersonal first aid kit containing:
  • Converter and plug adapters (Chile has type C and L plugs in 220v)
  • Wallet with cards and starting cash in USD
  • Airline, transportation, hotels and/or trip reservations
  • Passport & visa if required

You can download our printable packing checklist here

Got any questions, want to customize or make it private?
Contact us here! We’ll be happy to help.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Andes.

Our unparalleled expertise, top-notch guides, passion for adventure and the ability to find fresh powder will guarantee the ultimate backcountry experience.

Get ready for the trip of a lifetime.
Local specialists

We’ve spent over 15 years exploring, gathering local information, and analyzing data to become experts in delivering the ultimate backcountry experience in the Andes.

We live and breathe skiing.

Our guides

With insider knowledge of the Andes and unwavering commitment to safety, our local guides are trained and qualified to provide the ultimate Andes ski experience.

We’ll keep you safe and smiling.

Powder seekers

Because we know that conditions in the Andes can be unpredictable, our itineraries are always open to finding the best snow available for our guests. Small changes in the itinerary can make a huge impact.

Let’s find those deep fresh tracks.

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    Member Since 2022

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