The biggest city in Chile, Santiago is well known for being a vacation destination spot for those who love living-it-up and who want to experience all the wonder that can be found in this steamy section of the world. Santiago has everything that you could want on your vacation – clubs where you can dance the night away, museums that unveil the secrets of this area of the world, malls, parks, theaters, luxury resorts, and restaurants that serve more delicious food than one could ever hope to eat.

Inside Santiago

Inside of the main city of Santiago, there is much to do. Those who choose to stay in a luxury resort will find that they’re in the middle of everything, yet able to escape from the heat of the day in their cool hotel rooms. The city-center is home to high-rise buildings and a dense popluation. The city has made it easy to get around efficient public transport include subway systems. There are parks to enjoy for those who bring their families, and discos and clubs for those who would rather enjoy the nightlife. This hot city has got everything that you would expect to find inside a major city, including great shopping and amazing restaurants.

Outside the City

Travel outside the city and you’ll be able to experience a bit more of the wilderness that can be found in Chile. Right outside Santiago, for example, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy. A number of tour companies take tourists hiking into the mountains during the warm season, or to the ocean and the beach during summer, which runs from December to February. Alternatively, you can enjoy a bit of skiing in the mountains from June to September, slicing your way down the slopes that only Chile can boast of.

One of the greatest things about vacationing in Santiago is that the choices of your pastimes are endless. You can easily stay in the city and enjoy a luxury vacation, filled with pampering in spas and shopping galore, or you can head outside the city limits, where outdoor adventures eagerly await you. Either way, there is something for everyone to do in, and around, the wonderful and enjoyable city of Santiago, Chile.

Enid Glasgow is a luxury travel writer who prefers the finer things in travel, including luxury Chile travel and grand vacations.

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A hiking trip at the end of the world is not something I would normally consider. I am a girly girl whose ears perk up at the mention of booking a “spa” or a “villa” rather than doing “rugged mountain hiking.” The luxury travel magazines Travel & Leisure and Departures are my vacation planning sources. Nonetheless, my tennis partner and good friend, Donna, had planned a trip to Patagonia to celebrate her birthday and insisted I do something new and different for my next vacation. Always up for an adventure, I agreed to tag along.

Two months later I found myself on a 10-hour flight from Dallas to Santiago: the first leg of a trip that would end at Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia, Chile. Torres del Paine is a spectacular, unspoiled national park boasting a breathtaking mountain range, azure lakes, and magnificent flora and fauna. Located 1,000 miles north of Antarctica, the park attracts tourists from all over the world.

I didn’t have time to do much research about the trip and had envisioned the hike to be filled with rolling hills and gentle sloping paths set with a spectacular mountain view. The Sound of Music comes to mind. However, instead of a relaxing walk through nature, the “W” Circuit (named based on the shape of the trail) was a truly challenging hike covering over 30 miles of territory in only four days. It was to be a grueling trip for a first-time hiker.

The rugged terrain and long hiking days were not the only challenges. Patagonia’s remote location meant there were no TV, radio, and phone or email access available. Having zero communication with the outside world was daunting, at first, but soon became one of the most alluring aspects of the destination. Our entertainment was the untarnished beauty of the region. Pure glacier-fed springs with fresh water and magnificent mountains revealed nature at its best.

After a layover in Santiago, the capital of Chile, we took a four-hour flight to Punta Arenas, the southernmost city in the geographically long and skinny Chilean countryside. We stayed a night here before driving three hours to Puerto Natales, Chile, a small town that serves as the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park. Here travelers stock up on food and camping supplies before heading into the park. Our group had food and lodging supplied for us since we had decided to take a small hiking tour arranged by an American adventure travel company that specializes in South American treks.

The first day was a four-hour boat ride into the park where we viewed a colony of condors, sea lions, massive glaciers, and an authentic estancia before stopping for lunch. After lunch was the much-anticipated two-hour zodiac boat ride taking us deep into the park and offering unsurpassed views of Cuernos del Paine, a part of a magnificent mountain range. It was beautiful ride but bone-chilling cold. Even the immense parkas the guides wrapped us in were not enough for the sharp Patagonian rain and winds in the open boat. And, there are no bathrooms on zodiacs. I found that out the hard way.

After our zodiac trip ended, we were taken to our first night at Eco Camp, environment-friendly accommodations comprised of private tents with two twin beds but no heat. Clean bathrooms with hot showers and delicious meals were provided. Here we met the other members of the hiking group: two ladies from Pittsburgh in their mid-50’s, and a young couple from Tampa. Everyone was a seasoned hiker with the exception of myself. We chatted over a hearty dinner and went to bed early for good night’s rest before the first hiking day.

Glorious blue skies, warm temperatures and a gentle breeze welcomed us to our first day of hiking along the shores of Lake Nordenskjold. I was advised this five-hour trek would be the easiest with rolling hills and only a few steep ascents. The azure blue water of this dazzling lake was my constant companion as I hiked along its path to our destination at Cuernos Lodge. It was a beautifully quiet day where nature was picture-perfect.

Cuernos Lodge was the first time I had stayed at a hostel. Each traveler is given a sleeping bag and a bunk bed in a room with eight hikers. No thought is given to gender or nationality. You just grab a bunk and hit hay. The lower bunks always get snatched up quickly as hikers are exhausted from the trek and don’t want to climb one more thing at the day’s end. I even politely asked a flirtatious German man to switch bunks with me as I was afraid of heights and received a solid “no way”. It was everyman for himself.

The next day we rose early to begin a challenging ten-hour hike that runs along the base of Cuernos del Paine, which are tremendous granite towers in the middle of this circuit, into the French Valley. It snowed all day making the hike beautiful but a bit treacherous in places. Covered in layers upon layers of clothing, toting a heavy backpack, and walking in a line of similarly clad travelers made me feel as if I was part of an Everest Expedition. We hiked all morning until lunchtime where we sat in the snow to eat. Ravenous from the difficult trek I polished off two huge sandwiches in less than five minutes. After lunch we had five more hours of hiking. We all collapsed exhausted at Camp Pehoe at nightfall.

The third day took us through the Wind Valley and to the base of Grey Glacier. Unbelievable 45mph gusts of wind made the trek difficult. It was like hiking against a wall of hurricane-force wind. The ever-changing weather in Patagonia could be discussed at length but suffice it to say that in a brief span of our four-day trek we experienced everything Mother Nature could throw our way: bright sunshine and warm temperatures of 65 degrees, followed by temperatures plummeting to the 30’s with snow, rain and winds close to 45 miles per hour. Travelers should bring all waterproof gear for the hike and dress in layers as the daily temperatures vary greatly in this part of the world.

On our final day we left Eco-Camp and headed to the base of Torres, one of the most popular viewpoints on the circuit. The challenging ten-hour hiking day began with bright, sunny skies as we hiked from Eco-Camp to the Chilean Camp where we stopped for a quick rest. Hours later we found ourselves at the bottom of what some refer to as Boulder City: a seemingly endless expanse of large rock boulders heading upwards. At the top of the boulder field, far, far away a saw a speck of a man. “We’re going there?” I asked my guide in disbelief. I could not believe the trek that lay ahead. As I took the slow climb up, I found myself shedding layer up layer of clothing as my heart rate increased from the difficult climb. I crouched low and steadily moved from rock to rock. At last I reached the top to glimpse the massive towers in the distance. I felt truly insignificant compared to the majestic mountains surrounding us, and enjoyed the feeling.

Back at Eco-Camp we all celebrated by sipping on Pisco Sours, the country’s national beverage made of pisco brandy sugar and lemon juice, and discussed the trip. While some felt a great sense of accomplishment for completing the circuit, I simply enjoyed the fact that I had made it to the end in one piece. My friends congratulated me on successfully completing my first hiking trip and prodded me to join them again on a future trip in a new destination. Everest anyone?

———————–

Trip Tips:

Come equipped with waterproof gear, comfortable hiking boots, wool hat and gloves, water bottle, sunscreen and wind-resistant gear for the regions inclement weather

Plan your trip in Spring/Summer (November – March) when the temperature in Patagonia is mild in comparison to its intense winters.

Travelers seeking luxury accommodations should consider Explora, the region’s new luxury hotel and spa. Visit (http://www.explora.com/patagonia_theplace.php)

For adventure travelers seeking a warmer destination, try renting a villa on an island like St. John – USVI, Tortola – BVI or Virgin Gorda.

Author, Hunter Butler | Blue Escapes | info[at]blueescapes[dot]com | 512-472-8832 | 800-556-4801

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Chile has become a favored destination for skiing enthusiasts the world over. One very popular place to ski is in Santiago.

There are several resorts that the tourist will find enjoyable in this area of Chile. Several of them are located within hours of Santiago, in the heart of the Andes Mountains. It’s important to make your travel plans and reservations well in advance because with the ever increasing popularity of this region, more and more people are discovering its charm.

One area that has becoming a booming center for skiing in Chile is Valle Nevado. This is a couple of hours drive from Santiago and is suited for both the experienced and novice skier. Many people who live in Chile consider Valle Nevado to be the ski destination. They simply refuse to ski anywhere else in the world.

Valle Nevado is considered an ideal skiing retreat for families because of the variety of available runs. There are beginner runs which are perfect for small children who are getting their first taste of skis. With friendly and educated instructors available, parents can feel very comfortable knowing that their child is going to not only get a primer in all of the basics of skiing but also get a chance to ski down a few of the easy runs.

Those with a bit more experience will welcome both the intermediate and expert runs that are found in Valle Nevado. The chair lifts are considered some of the most efficient and comfortable in the world. When people go to ski in Valle Nevado they may just fall in love with the area.

Another destination that people who live in Chile and tourists alike enjoy is Portillo. Portillo is actually just an area not a city. It’s much smaller than Valle Nevado but the conditions are incomparable. You need to book your travel to Portillo early due to the fact that the area only hosts one hotel.

You may be concerned that with only one hotel your vacation experience in Portillo will be compromised. However, it should be viewed as a cruise ship for skiers. The hotel can house up to 450 guests with one employee per guest. This means very accommodating staff who are there to answer your every call and concern. With the limited number of skiers in the area the wait for a chair lift is very rare.

One of the unique aspects of Portillo that sets it apart from other ski areas in Chile is the ski school. The school in Portillo has been in operation for over five decades and boasts many notable past students including several Olympic athletes. This is really an ideal location for people who want an unique skiing adventure.

If you are looking for a less expensive ski experience in Chile there are many other choices available for you. You can plan either a day trip or an overnight stay at many of the local ski areas.

About the Author: Read more from Naldo Camarones at: southamerica-magazine.com

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If you like adventure, beautiful landscapes, distinctive German influenced architecture, and meet with friendly country side people, come to Pucon, located in the south of Chile (9 hours driving time from Santiago, Chile’s capital or 3 hour if you fly from Santiago to Temuco and then drive to Pucon). This cozy town is within an area called the Lake District (from Temuco to Puerto Montt).

To fully enjoy Pucon and its surrounding areas, a jeep or a 4×4 pick up truck (both with high clearance) are highly recommended, specially if you visit this town on winter season. Reminder: Chilean winter goes from June to August) Pucon has an excellent offer for different budgets, an “A class” experience for those who seek luxury hotels and apart hotels, a casino, fly fishing tours, and excellent Chilean and international restaurants. It also offers a money saving alternative for those that mainly enjoy outdoors activities like camping, and horseback riding and stunning natural views. Several national parks are located in the area, one of them is Huerquehue, where you can enjoy a full day walking, or trekking trip, through a breathtaking native forest full of astonishing Araucarias (Chilean famous native tree). Before entering a national park in this area, remember to plan your trip considering the weather conditions two days prior to your arrival day. If you like hot springs, there are many alternatives in the area. Close to Huerquehue national park you will find Huife hot springs, where you will found a hotel where you may lunch and take a break. There are also hot springs close to Villarica, 30 minutes driving time from Pucon, called Geometricas. It is a MUST on your journey to Pucon, an unmissable place especially on a rainy day. In Pucon’s down town you will find many outdoor sports guiding companies, where you can take some of the following tours: canopy; rafting; fishing; mountain bike rental; trekking; among others. If you lack of the sport gear, don’t worry, there are rental equipment and stores in the area that can supply it for you, without adding extra weight to your luggage. Trancura River is one of the places to get your adrenaline quote in water outdoor sport, it has a level three difficulty rate, so beginners and amateur can enjoy the 90 minutes ride that this river offers to the visitors.

In a sunny day climbing Villarrica active volcano, stands out as a great day trip. It is an active volcano, than can be spotted by night with a red light at the top in the night sky. Please take note that you must be in good physical shape to take this tour and we recommend you do it with a prestigious outdoor guiding company and an experienced guide.

For an out of the world experience, look for a hotel called Antumalal placed in the middle of a wonderful native forest with an astonishing view to the lake from all the rooms. They offer spa, tours, and a unique cuisine to their guests.

Some spots that you can not miss on your trip in Pucon and its surroundings: Ojos del Caburga; Caburga clearwater lake; Pucon’s black sand beach (volcanic origin); Villarica artisans’ market.

About the Author: Uri Martinich is LetsgoChile.com’s IT Director and a travel to Chile consultant since 2002. He also manages the Chile hotels division of the company.

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Chile is a place of contrast, not just by the diversity in its geography, but by the landscapes and climates that can be found travelling through its territory. Beginning by the Big North (Norte Grande), linked to the Desert of Atacama (Atacama Desert or Desierto de Atacama). From Putre by the north in the Chilean Altiplane (Altiplano chileno), contemplating to the Chungara Lake and Lauca National Park, Vicuñas National Reserve, to San Pedro de Atacama and the Salt Flat of the same name, you will encounter a wide spectrum of colors drawn in the landscape, a dry atmosphere, the cold nights and the warm of the afternoons.

The Desert of Atacama is by its geographic and morphologic condition, a zone rich in minerals ores, here we find Chuquicamata Mine which developes their mining operations in this area considered the largest deposit of copper in the world. The mine it is located in II the Region or Region of Antofagasta, closely to Calama and more than 62,14 miles of San Pedro de Atacama. The city of Calama stands as an important pole of mining development and the welcoming point to all those tourist that wish to visit San Pedro de Atacama, due to the presence of the airport of the city. San Pedro de Atacama is one of the unmissable spots in the Chilean tourism scene. It is important to point out that all this area including the coastal cities like Arica, Iquique and Antofagasta are areas of great mining importance and thriving tourist activity. Prepare yourself to be astonished not only by the Desert of Atacama and San Pedro de Atacama, but the various less-known sites which can be found travelling in this zone, from north to south: the Valley of Azapa (Azapa Valley or Valle de Azapa), Valley of Lluta (Lluta Valley or Valle de Lluta), Parinacota, Pica and Mamiña, the Sanctuary of the Tirana (Santuario de La Tirana), Humberstone Saltpeter (Salitrera de Humberstone) the border town of Ollagüe, Toconao and the Gorge of Jerez (Quebrada de Jerez), where you may found fruit trees like pears and apples, figs and Toconce in one of many oasis that stands in the dry landscape. Perhaps the less known area in Chile is the one from Antofagasta until Copiapo that for many comprises part of the Chilean Big North (Norte Grande). The existence of different weather systems gives an unique identity to this territory. From the south of Antofagasta to Chañaral, by the coast, we are in the presence of warmer temperatures, nicer than the area between Arica and Iquique. We may found beaches of incredible beauty such Bahia Inglesa (English Bay) and Caldera where the waters are of turquoise color and white sands. Heading to the center, by the mountain zone, there are located the main cities like Copiapo and Vallenar. Near Copiapo are Nevado Tres Cruces National Park (Parque Nacional Nevado Tres Cruces) and the stranger and mysterious Salar de Maricunga. The National Park Llanos de Challe also is placed in this area, near Huasco by the side of the coast. Almost in the limit between the North Grande or Big North. The Small North (Norte Chico) Towards the south, we come upon the zone of valleys with greener landscapes but still with a great influence of the desert, mainly standing out of La Serena, Coquimbo and more specifically the Elqui Valley (Valle de Elqui), where you may see the clearest skies of the South Hemisphere and according to many, of the world. A zone with more than 300 cleared days a year that have made possible the foundation of astronomical centers of world-wide reputation, as the Observatory Paranal, and Tololo Hill, and recently, a basic observatory in the city of Vicuña, the Mamalluca. This entire zone is called the Small North, with more pleasant temperatures at night, if we compared them with the Great North. The zone of the Norte Chico or Small North in Chile has charming scenes composed by small interesting towns as those placed in the zone of the Elqui Valley, Vicuña, Pisco Elqui, Monte Grande,

Cochiguaz and Alcohuaz among others. Most of the localities live mainly on agriculture; most of them cultivate vines, which provides grapes for the elaboration of pisco, typical liquor of Chile, used as a main ingredient of the most typical Chilean coctels. La Serena on the other hand, and also Coquimbo, constitutes two poles of great importance for the tourism, since is in the coast of the Small North area (Norte Chico), has calm beaches well protected of the marine air and the cold. Some beaches you may find in the area are: Totoralillo, Las Tacas, Guanaqueros, Puerto Velero, Playa Blanca and Tongoy.

Andacollo it is a small town which fame is due to the Sanctuary devoted to the figure of Virgin Mary of Andacollo and the festivals that take place once a year on her honor. Near Andacollo, also is the Natural Monument of Pichasca, near Hurtado River (Rio Hurtado). Going down south is Ovalle, an agricultural area. Less than 1 hour from Ovalle we will find Fray Jorge National Park (Parque Nacional Fray Jorge), famous by its flora, fauna and also archaeological findings. Monte Patria, La Paloma Dam (Embalse La Paloma), Punitaqui, Combarbala, are also small towns located near to Ovalle. If you head south you will find Illapel and facing the coast the small town of Los Vilos, Salamanca also is another zone in the Small North (Norte Chico), and it is commonly recognized as the city of the Wizards, but there is no clear explanation for this name besides the popular beliefs. Nearby Illapel, is the Chinchillas National Reserve. From the Vilos by the coast, small coastal cities can be appreciated whose subsistence in addition to the fishing, is based on the tourism, between which we may include Punta de Lobos, Pichidangui, the Molles, Pichicuy among others.

About the Author: Ximena Diaz is an expert consultant about holidays in Chile and is currently Chile hotels reservation adviser.

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Snow capped mountains and stretches of vineyards encircle the vibrantly modern metropolis of Santiago, Chile. The sky is pierced by soaring skyscrapers in the financial district while off in the distance the peaks of the Andes ascend toward the same blue ceiling.

Airfare to Santiago is extremely convenient if you wish to continue your travels to other destinations within South America. The long north-south coastal strip of land that is Chile is essentially divided in half by the central capital of Santiago, providing an ideal home base for easy access to all parts of the country from the Atacama Desert to Cape Horn. A short drive to the west lands you at the beaches of the South Pacific Ocean while an even shorter jaunt to the east reveals Andes ski resorts and neighboring Argentina. Chile is also bordered by Peru and Bolivia to the north. Sun, Snow and Sophistication in Santiago From Independence from Spain in the early 1800s to the end of Pinochet rule in 1990, Santiago struggled with mass influxes of immigrants and a deterioration of infrastructure. However, recent history has proven the strength and innovation of the people and today Santiago is the financial capital of South America and a bastion of cultural preservation and seemingly infinite urban renewal. Begin your Santiago travel in the central Plaza de Armas where the National Cathedral stands among other government buildings. From there you can catch the underground metro to any barrio of the city. Among the museums of Santiago, be sure to visit the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolumbino for 4500 years of South American history prior to European arrival. Along your way, stop in at Pablo Neruda’s home (La Chascona) where the famous author spent a good portion of his life.

To fill your evenings, Santiago is brimming over with a hip music scene and sleeplessly boisterous nightlife. Jazz is a prominent sound throughout Santiago’s streets and the Club de Jazz in Ñuñoa is one of the best. For a bit more sophistication, visit the Teatro Municipal to bless your ears with Chile’s Philharmonic Orchestra or the Universidad de Chile for the Chilean Symphony. Then, find your way to Barrio Bellavista where lounges, restaurants and nightclubs are generously dispersed among youthful hostels and boutique hotels.

El Aire Libre in Santiago

For the fresh air enthusiasts, there is much to do in Santiago. Aside from an expansive municipal park full of bicyclists and joggers, most ski and snowboarders begin their winter wonderland adventures in Santiago for the easy access to many mountain resorts. The wine enthusiast finds fantastic tastes in the surrounding vineyards of Concha y Toro, Santa Rita and Santa Carolina. And once you book your airfare to Santiago, you, too, will find your ideal surroundings among the streets of Santiago.

About the Author: For more information on Santiago and cheap airfare & flight tickets, go to www.cfares.com.

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Chile is located along South America’s west coast. It is bordered by Bolivia, Peru, Andes, and Argentina. Chile has beautiful pristine beaches that warrant the attention they get from tourists and locals alike, but other than majestic beaches, here are some of the places that you have to visit while in Chile.

1.) Cathedral of San Marcos

If you are going to stay in Chile, then Arica is a must-see place. Here, you will see the Cathedral of San Marcos. The designer of this cathedral is the same person who designed the Eiffel Tower, as such, this has become a tourist destination.

2.) Baquedano Street

It you want old-style streets, then drop by Baquedano Street. Walk along its cobblestone streets and marvel at its old-western style atmosphere. You can also find a lot of tourists here buying their souvenirs as well as enjoying other activities.

3.) Zofri

This is a duty-free zone in Iquique and is a favorite shopping area of locals and visitors alike. This place is a must-go-to because you can find cheap electronics here as well as cheaper memory cards. There are other items that you can buy as well.

4.) La Serena

This is an appealing Chilean town that has lots to offer visitors. Here, you can visit a museum where you can see an authentic Rapa Nui Moai head. You can also visit the observatory that is always open for the public to visit.

5.) Vaparaiso

This is a city in Chile that is popular because of its Bohemian culture, the colorfully-painted houses and the majestic views of its beaches and seaside. There are so many places you can visit here like the Plaza Echaurren-Serrano Street, La Matriz Church, and Ex Carcel. You can also visit La Sebastiana, home (at least one of his three houses) of the famous poet, Pablo Neruda.

6.) Chuquicamata

This was once a beautiful town, but now, it is a dying town. There is a mine here that is a must-see for any visitors, and it is advisable to go on a guided tour so as not to miss its history. You can still see here some equipments as well as vehicles that were used in the mine.

7.) Vina Del Mar

Home to wonderful coastline, this is a favorite destination for the sun worshippers and the beach lovers, but beware though because its waters are not that friendly for swimming. It is best to just walk along the shoreline and enjoy the view it offers, or you can just walk along Vina Del Mar’s downtown to enjoy the delicious native cuisine of Chile or buy your souvenirs. The best month to visit this place is in February where a lot of festivals are held.

8.) Parque Metropolitano

This big park is located in Santiago de Chile. From here, you can see a wonderful view of the city of Santiago, and you can also see the Andes. You can go up to its summit by riding a cablecar or driving your car, or you can even go on a hike to reach the top where you will get to enjoy the botanical garden and a zoo.

9.) Santiago Centro

This is a great place to immerse yourself with Chilean everyday life. You can stroll along its paseos. Word of caution though, beware of pickpockets.

10.) Rancagua

Here, you can go to the Las Termas de Cauquenes where you can enjoy a nice hot bath from its natural hot spring waters. When done with your relaxing thermal bath, then go on to Reserva Nacional Rio Los Cipreses, Rancaua’s national park that offers a great camping experience. You can also visit Sewell, a mining town that is now non-operational.

About the Author: Jonathan Williams is the travel writer for Destination Guide TV – the place to share travel videos. Visit http://www.destinationguide.tv/chile to view or share Chile travel videos.

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History of Skiing in Chile

Getting from point A to point B in the rugged Andes was a cinch in summer. Come winter, though, deep snow, howling winds and massive mountain passes meant going anywhere east or west was nearly impossible. Skiing in South America was a necessity before it was considered a pleasure. On both sides of the imposing Andes Mountains, skis were first strapped on by explorers, engineers and military trainees attempting to travel across treacherous mountain terrain, to colonize remote valleys and to guard both sides of the border. Portillo, the first ski resort in Chile, and Catedral, the first one in Argentina, were created by visionary immigrants who had a sense of the adventure potential of the amazing Andes.

Picture the poor guys laying the railway tracks beneath the tall Andes. Working in the freezing snow 3,810 m above sea level, in knee-deep snow. When their European bosses suggested strapping on wooden boards so they could head back to the work camp faster, they must have been intimidated. But after a few quick lessons on the basics of skiing, the wooden boards surely made life even a little bit more fun. When eager athletic types from Santiago joined them for winter weekend ski trips, the essential became an indulgence.

Isolated from the rest of the world by the Andes, with a long coastline, Chile had little reason to attempt mountain travel until the Trans-Andean railway was built in the early 1900s, connecting Valparaiso near Santiago with Mendoza, Argentina. The tall peaks that formed the country’s western border were simply seen as too large and too difficult to explore. When it opened in 1910, the railway crossed the highest mountains in the world outside the Himalaya, and changed the way Chilean saw the snowy peaks. Travelling on skis proved the only way for workers (led by English and Norwegian engineers who’d brought their boards over from Europe) to make the Uspallata Pass, not far from what is now Portillo resort. Skis were necessary for transportation before they became a source of fun.

Portillo

The new sport introduced by European railway engineers caught on in Santiago, particularly amongst social clubs of Europeans who established a company, Hoteles de Cordillera S.A. that would build a hotel just west of the Uspallata Pass. The first chair lift went up at Portillo in 1946, making it the first in South America. The resort opened in 1949, and was an instant hit with Chileans from Santiago. The resort was purchased by Americans Bob Purcell and Dick Aldrich in 1962, and hosted the World Alpine Ski Championships in 1966, drawing world-wide attention. In 1987, Michael Prufer broke the record for speed dsecent at Portillo, clocking 217.68 km per hour.

Since then, other ski resorts have opened up and down the Chilean Andes, including Termas de Chillán in the 1970s and La Parva, El Colorado and Valle Nevado in the 1980s.

About the Author: David Owen, owner and guide for PowderQuest tours, has been hooked on skiing and snowboarding since stepping into a pair of skis back in 1976. David now lives in Pucon, Chile and invites you to Ski Chile with PowderQuest.

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