Argentina Travel Planet

Skiing in Argentina

Argentina, the second largest country in South America, is lucky enough to be home to the Andes mountains, the majestic range that runs through the whole of this great continent. Lining the western side of the country, the mountains are home to some of the best skiing in the world, a must-see when visiting Argentina.

No matter where you are staying in Argentina, most of the major ski resorts and towns are somewhat easily accessible. Traveling by land may take quite some time, as the country is expansive, but even the farthest resorts are a simple two or three hour domestic flight away from Buenos Aires.

Each winter (June through early October), locals and tourists alike flock to the slopes, thirsty to get a taste of the year’s fresh powder. The last two weeks of July are national holidays in both Chile and Argentina, so the resorts are especially busy at this time, and prices often go up with the influx of visitors.

There are several major ski resorts, the northernmost being Penitentes and Las Leñas, both situated close to the wine lover’s paradise of Mendoza. Penitentes is overlooked by Mount Aconcagua, the highest summit in South America, and it offers a wide variety of runs for all levels, as well as lessons and many hotels and hostels of all price and luxury levels.

Las Leñas sits even closer to the city of Mendoza, and is considered by many to be the most important ski resort in the country. It is the highest ski resort in the country, and its quality of snow is simply unbeatable, with dozens of trails for all skill levels, as well as areas for off-piste practice and cross-country skiing. It boasts the one of the world’s longest intermediate trails, and 13 lifts. The accommodation is top-notch, as is its cuisine and ski and snowboarding instruction.

Farther south, tucked in behind San Martín de los Andes, lies Chapelco, one of the most picturesque resorts in Argentina. Set in among the beautiful lenga forests, the resorts 22 trails offer excitement and splendor. It is known for its quality snow, modernity, and reliability and security, as it is carefully watched by qualified teams to make sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience. It also has a snowboard park with facilities for the half pipe, big air, fun park and parallel slalom. Snow-shoe walks are also offered for a more tranquil afternoon. You can read more about San Martin de los Andes in this Argentina travel guide.

South of Chapelco is Cerro Catedral, almost synonymous with Bariloche, the nearest city to this magnificent resort. Its name comes from its striking likeness to a medieval cathedral, and it is by far one of the most popular resorts in the country. It is always on top in terms of technology, and strives to offer its guests the most sophisticated facilities in the country. It has a variety of well-designed trails, and can guarantee snow, thanks to its snow-making system, able to make up to 10 hectares of real, skiable snow.

At the end of the world sits Ushuaia, home to Mount Castor, where the mountains meet the sea in unparalleled beauty. It is the newest resort in Argentina, and it has already gained popularity. Its location makes it unusually low, at only 195 meters above sea level, but it is still able to offer quite the drop, as its top reaches 1,057 meters. As it is so far south, it boasts one of the longest seasons in South America, offering months of powder and stable temperatures. This resort also offers lessons, reliable lifts and a variety of trails. And with a backdrop such as Ushuaia, it simply can’t be beat.

Many other areas of Argentina, which can be read about in this Argentina Travel Guide, also offer great skiing, all within the magnificent grandeur of the Andes. If you’re visiting the country during ski season, be sure to take advantages of the adventures that await on the slopes.