PATAGONIA Ski Season 2026: Everything You Need to Know
The countdown to winter has already begun. Resorts, prices and tips for skiing in Argentina and Chile in 2026.
2026 Opening Dates
| Resort | Country | Opening |
|---|---|---|
| Cerro Castor | 🇦🇷 Argentina | May |
| Valle Nevado | 🇨🇱 Chile | June 13 |
| Nevados de Chillán / La Parva | 🇨🇱 Chile | June 18 |
| Cerro Bayo | 🇦🇷 Argentina | June 18 |
| El Colorado / Corralco | 🇨🇱 Chile | June 19 |
| Portillo | 🇨🇱 Chile | June 21 |
| Cerro Catedral | 🇦🇷 Argentina | June 29 |
| Chapelco | 🇦🇷 Argentina | July 4 |
| Caviahue | 🇦🇷 Argentina | July 15 |
🇦🇷 white rows · 🇨🇱 blue rows
Argentina: the resorts
South America's largest ski resort. Multiple World Ski Awards winner.
Family-friendly atmosphere near Lanín National Park. One of the most beautiful natural settings in Argentine ski country.
The world's southernmost ski resort. Guaranteed dry snow and views of the Beagle Channel. South America's longest ski season.
Nahuel Huapi's best-kept secret. Perfect for families seeking an intimate experience away from Catedral's crowds.
The most affordable resort on the circuit. Top-quality powder snow, authentic atmosphere, no crowds.
Skiing at the foot of an active volcano. The village is steps from the lifts — no car or transfer needed. A few kilometres away, Copahue hot springs are the perfect après-ski.
Chile: the resorts
The largest mountain resort near Santiago. 2026 highlight: Aconcagua Ski Residences — 39 luxury ski-in/ski-out units.
Historic and demanding. Considered by professionals as one of the best resorts in the world. Intimate atmosphere, challenging terrain.
Together with Valle Nevado they form the snow triangle closest to Santiago. Great value for intermediate skiers.
The only resort combining ski slopes with natural hot springs. A soak in the thermal baths after a day on the mountain makes it truly unique.
Price comparison: lift ticket per day
| Ski Resort | Adult lift ticket/day | Equipment rental | Total per day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cerro Catedral 🇦🇷 | from $160,000 ARS | $55,000–$70,000 ARS | ~$215,000–$230,000 ARS |
| Cerro Castor 🇦🇷 | $102,000–$150,000 ARS | $55,000–$70,000 ARS | ~$157,000–$220,000 ARS |
| Chapelco 🇦🇷 | $120,000 ARS | $55,000–$70,000 ARS | ~$175,000–$190,000 ARS |
| La Hoya 🇦🇷 | ~$80,000 ARS equiv. | $55,000–$70,000 ARS | ~$135,000–$150,000 ARS |
| Caviahue 🇦🇷 | TBC | $55,000–$70,000 ARS | TBC |
| Valle Nevado 🇨🇱 | $65,000–$70,000 CLP | from $29,900 CLP | ~$95,000–$100,000 CLP |
| Portillo 🇨🇱 | weekly packages only | included in package | from USD 1,650/week |
Prices verified from official resort websites, May 2026. Portillo does not sell day passes — operates on full weekly packages only. La Hoya does not publish a daily rate; equivalent calculated from 5-day flex pass ($400,000 ARS). Equipment rental: average reference, may vary. Totals in local currency.
Argentina or Chile?
| 🇦🇷 Choose Argentina if… | 🇨🇱 Choose Chile if… |
|---|---|
| You want the largest resort on the continent | You want world-class modern infrastructure |
| You prefer a more traditional experience | You're traveling from or through Santiago |
| Budget is the priority (La Hoya, Cerro Bayo) | The exchange rate works in your favor |
| You want the longest season (Cerro Castor) | You're looking for ski-in/ski-out luxury (Valle Nevado) |