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Central Andes Backcountry Safari

Central Andes

Early booking special offer – book before April 30th and get 10% off!

Explore the best backcountry skiing that the Central Andes has to offer on this adventure. From the legendary slopes of Portillo to Farellones and the deep valleys of Cajón del Maipo, this trip is for experienced riders looking for a mix of lift-accessed and human-powered exploration. This trip is an all-inclusive experience packed with thrilling descents, stunning landscapes, and Chilean culture.

28 August – 6 September 2025 – spots available

Not Rated

Ski/riding ability

4/5

BC touring experience

3/5

Fitness level

3/5

Technical level

Intermediate (2/4)

Group size

8 people

Duration

10 Days / 7 days of skiing

Overview

Overview

For 10 days, we’ll explore Chile’s best ski destinations and backcountry terrain. After arriving to Santiago (SCL), we head to Portillo and it’s backcountry for 3 days of skiing.

Next, we move to Farellones, accessing El Colorado, La Parva, and Valle Nevado, where we chase the best snow across resort-accessible backcountry and big-mountain lines for another 2 days. Our journey finishes in Cajón del Maipo for 2 more days of deep backcountry exploration using snowmobiles and ski touring. We end the trip in Santiago (SCL) on the 10th day.

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.

 

Lift Accessed Backcountry

Lines adjacent to the ski resort but outside controlled terrain. May require short bootpacking and repeated lift use.

 

Sled-Assisted Backcountry Touring

A snowmobile is used to reach a remote location and continue ski touring.

Ski/riding ability

This trip is rated as 4/5: Advanced. Can ski most terrains and slopes in variable conditions but has no experience with technical or very steep and demanding lines.

 

Backcountry touring experience

This trip is rated as 3/5: 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 3/5: Occasionally includes ascents of up to 5 hours and 1000 m (3300 ft) of elevation gain. May include hikes above 3000 m (10000 ft) of elevation.

Day 1: Arrival to Santiago and transfer to Los Andes

We pick you up from Santiago Airport (SCL) or your hotel to meet at noon at our headquarters in Santiago at Mall Sport. After a welcome lunch, gear check, and trip briefing, we transfer to Los Andes, where you’ll have time to rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Portillo Warm-Up

We’ll start the day with some ski resort skiing to get our bodies acclimated and take the pace of high altitude skiing with stunning views.

Portillo is surrounded by giant cliffs and most of its slopes drop directly into the famous turquoise waters of Laguna del Inca. We’ll end our ski day at the must-go aprés ski spot at Portillo. This day allows us to get back on our skis, make equipment adjustments, and prepare for the upcoming backcountry days.

Day 3: Skiing in Portillo

We’ll explore Portillo’s surrounding backcountry, accessing pristine lines with breathtaking views. Expect high-alpine terrain and exciting descents in one of Chile’s most famous ski destination. We can either visit the border with Argentina or ski the legendary Super C line, depending on group and conditions. This day can also be used for skiing another day in Portillo in case the group needs more acclimatization.

Day 4: Morning ski in Portillo & transfer to Farellones

We’ll spend the morning skiing either in Portillo or its backcountry, making the most of the conditions. In the afternoon, we transfer to Farellones, our next base for the trip.

Days 5 to 6: 2 days of skiing in Farellones

With access to El Colorado, La Parva, and Valle Nevado, these two days will be spent chasing the best snow conditions. Depending on weather and snowfall, we’ll ski resort-accessible backcountry terrain, car-drop descents with shuttle support, and legendary big-mountain lines such as Cerro Parva, Santa Tere, Tambo, McConkey and more.

Day 7: Transfer to Cajón del Maipo

A well-earned rest day as we journey into the stunning Cajón del Maipo area. Along the way, we’ll immerse ourselves in local culture, enjoy Chilean cuisine, and take in the breathtaking landscapes of this remote Andean valley.

Days 8 to 9: 2 days of skiing at Cajón del Maipo

One of these days, we’ll use snowmobiles to reach deep into the valleys of Cajón del Maipo for an unforgettable backcountry touring experience, with terrain suitable for all levels but featuring some incredible big-mountain lines. The other day will be a classic backcountry ski touring adventure, offering untouched snow and majestic scenery.

Day 10: End of the trip and transfer to Santiago

Our journey concludes with a relaxed morning to pack and prepare for departure. We’ll transfer back to Santiago, where guests can be dropped off at their hotel or the airport (SCL) for onward travel.

Logistics and guiding

1 certified bilingual local guide per 4 guests.
Transportation from/to airports and hotels at the start and end of the trip.
Private transportation during the trip.
Lift tickets at all ski resorts.
Snowmobiles fees in Cajón del Maipo.

Lodging

All nights in shared twin rooms. (Ask about private room options.)

Meals

All breakfasts.
All lunches at restaurants or Box Lunch at the mountain.
All dinners.
1 drink included per meal.

  • Domestic and international flights
  • Travel insurance (Check how to protect your trip here).
  • Meals not mentioned in the “Included” section.
  • Additional beverages.
  • Ski and avalanche safety equipment (Ask about our rentals).
  • Tips for guides and service staff at your discretion.
  • Private room (subject to availability).
  • Ski and avalanche safety equipment rental.
  • Pre/post-trip accommodation and activities.
  • Booking of domestic and/or international flights.

Early booking special offer – book before April 30th and get 10% off!

2025 season available dates:

  • 28 August – 6 September 2025

This dates doesn’t work for you? Wanna make it private? We also offer this tour ON DEMAND – Please contact us. We will be happy to tailor this journey to your needs.

Available Mid July – September

List price:

from U$ 5,370 

The published rate is the price per person, without add-ons, based on the minimum group size required for the trip.

Accommodations are referential, subject to availability, and may change due to force majeure. If replaced, they will be of similar or superior characteristics.

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

Ski activities are subject to weather and snow conditions. While we strive to follow this itinerary, it may be subject to change.
In case skiing is not possible on a given day, a refund will be issued according to the activity:
-Resort day: 70 USD
-Snowmobile day: 150 USD
For the snowmobile activities, if they are cancelled, we will go ski touring. If this is not possible, our guides will organize a cultural day based on the group interest.

What you’ll need

Here’s the gear list for your adventure. If you tend to get cold in wintery conditions, especially when you’re not moving around, bring extra layers. Dressing appropriately and having the right gear will help the guides provide a safer and more fun experience for the group. In the Andes, the weather can be harsh and change quickly and drastically.

Is anything missing from your gear list? We’ve got you covered with a pro rental with all the necessary equipment. Kastle skis, BCA, and other top brands support Andes Touring. Hit us up!

BC trip gear list

Gear

  • Boots
  • Crampons
  • Ice Axe
  • Skis / Splitboard
  • Touring bindings
  • Poles
  • Skins
  • 28 – 50 lt Touring Backpack
  • Avalanche beacon
  • Shovel
  • Probe
  • Helmet
  • Goggles (sunny & cloudy lenses)

Accessories

  • POV Camera
  • Sunglasses
  • Water bottle (1L minimum)
  • Headlamp
  • Sunscreen & lip balm

Base layers

  • Long underwear
  • Skiing Socks

Mid layer

  • Down or synthetic jacket

Outer Layer

  • Warm hat
  • Sun hat
  • Face mask
  • Wind/waterproof jacket
  • Wind/waterproof pants 
  • Ski gloves or mitts
  • Thin gloves for touring

Personal first aid kit:

  • Ibuprofen or similar
  • Antacids
  • Moleskin or tape (for blisters) and band-aids
  • Imodium
  • Prescription medicine
  • Personal items for women

For additional activities

  • Sandals, slippers or Crocks for after & bath
  • Converter and plug adapters
  • Bathing suit

Also recommended

  • Ski crampons
  • Energy bars & extra food

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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    theo duclos

    Member Since 2025