Valle Nevado
The largest ski area in South America, built by French developers on a ridge above Santiago in 1988.
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Valle Nevado was built from 1988 by a French group applying the model of the purpose-built high-altitude resorts of the Alps: a set of hotels at about 3,000 metres with the lifts running from the door and nothing else on the mountain. Its terrain connects with El Colorado and La Parva, and the combined area is the largest ski domain in South America. Because it is in the Andes at this latitude the season runs from June to September, which brings northern hemisphere skiers and racing teams for summer training. The road up from Santiago climbs through around forty numbered hairpins and is the resort's defining approach.
What you actually see
- A purpose-built resort from 1988 - on the Alpine high-altitude model.
- The largest ski domain in South America - linked with El Colorado and La Parva.
- A southern winter season - June to September, drawing northern teams.
- Forty hairpins up - the road from Santiago.
When to go
June to September. A day from Santiago, or several staying.
Honest expectations
The road requires chains regularly and can close; uphill and downhill traffic is time-restricted on busy days. The resort is above the tree line and there is nothing to do when weather shuts the lifts. Prices are high and packages are the norm.
Nearby
Farellones and El Colorado are down the road; Santiago is below.
What to pack for Valle Nevado
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.