Day in the Andes: Private Skiing & Snow Play at Parque Farellones
A private day trip from Santiago that mixes easy ski runs, snow play, and Andes views—without the hassle
By midmorning the truck noses upward and the city shrinks behind you—Santiago’s concrete grid dissolving into the bruised-blue sweep of the Andes. The road narrows, switchbacks come quicker, and the air grows thinner and cleaner as the mountains take over. A 4WD mutters and climbs; outside, slopes gleam like edited paper, ridgelines outlined by wind. Parque Farellones sits here, near the crest of the central Andes, a compact, convivial patch of winter sport that feels deliberately human-scaled: a place for first turns, rope-tow lessons, and the kind of laugh-until-you’re-snowy tubing the guide promises.
Trail Wisdom
Hydrate before you go
Altitude can sneak up—drink water the day before and bring a 1–1.5L bottle to sip throughout the day.
Layer for midday swings
Temperatures fluctuate; wear a venting mid-layer and a waterproof shell to adapt quickly.
Protect your eyes
High-altitude sun plus reflective snow means goggles with UV protection are a must.
Book private transport
A private 4WD pickup saves time and lets you set the schedule for lessons or extra runs.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Short summit walk above the park for a panoramic Santiago-and-peak vista
- •Small cafes near the base serving hot soups and empanadas popular with locals
Wildlife
Andean condor (distant sightings), Vizcacha (rock-dwelling lagomorph-like mammals)
Conservation Note
Stick to marked areas and compact your group’s waste—alpine vegetation is fragile and slow to recover; local operators support mountain rescue and trail upkeep.
Farellones evolved from mining tracks to an accessible ski hub for Santiago’s residents through the 20th century, retaining a community-oriented vibe.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Fewer crowds, Milder temperatures, Lower prices
Challenges: Variable snow, Shorter season windows
Spring (Southern Hemisphere spring = Sept–Nov) can mean patchy snowpack but pleasant weather for photos and last runs.
summer
Best for: Hiking nearby trails, Mountain scenery, Wildflower viewing
Challenges: No reliable snow, Park activities limited
Summer converts the slopes to hiking and sightseeing; snow activities are generally unavailable.
fall
Best for: Pre-season deals, Clear skies, Cool temperatures
Challenges: Unpredictable early storms, Limited full-park operations
Fall is transitional; you might catch early snow but should expect inconsistent operations.
winter
Best for: Skiing and lessons, Snow tubing, Consistent snow coverage
Challenges: Cold temperatures, Higher demand for bookings
Winter (June–September) is peak season—best snow, but book transport and lessons in advance.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Ski GogglesEssential
Protects eyes from glare and wind and improves contrast on variable snow.
Waterproof Shell JacketEssential
Keeps wind and wet snow off so you stay comfortable between runs.
Insulating Mid-LayerEssential
A lightweight down or synthetic layer balances warmth and breathability.
Frequent-Access Small Pack
Holds water, sunscreen, snacks, and a compact camera without getting in the way.
Common Questions
How long is the transfer from Santiago?
Driving time is roughly 60–90 minutes depending on traffic and weather; private 4WD adds comfort and flexibility.
Do I need previous skiing experience?
No—Farellones has beginner-friendly zones and lessons; the private tour can include instruction for first-timers.
What is included in the private tour?
Typical inclusions are private transport in a 4WD, a guide, flexible time on-site, and assistance with rentals; confirm exact inclusions when booking.
When is the best time to visit for dependable snow?
Chile’s winter runs June–September, with July–August usually offering the most reliable coverage near Santiago.
Is altitude sickness a concern?
It can be—symptoms are usually mild at these elevations; hydrate, eat lightly, and take breaks if you feel unwell.
Are lifts crowded?
Farellones is smaller than nearby resorts and tends to feel less crowded, but peak weekends can still see lines; private timing helps avoid peak windows.
What to Pack
Water bottle (hydration at altitude), sunscreen & lip balm (high UV), warm gloves & hat (cold hands end the day), small daypack (store layers and camera)
Did You Know
Chile’s central Andes offer Southern Hemisphere ski season—June through September—making Santiago a popular winter destination for travelers from the north.
Quick Travel Tips
Book weekday slots to avoid crowds; check road and weather reports before departure; carry local currency for small purchases; confirm drop-off point in Santiago with your guide
Local Flavor
After the slopes, head back to Santiago—Lastarria’s bistros or Bellavista’s wood-fired grills are great for a hearty meal; pair with a local Carmenère or a Pisco Sour to complete the alpine-to-urban return.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Arturo Merino Benítez (SCL); Driving distance: ~60–90 minutes from central Santiago; Cell service: generally good near town but patchy at higher vantage points; Permits or passes: none required for day visitors—lift tickets and equipment rental fees apply.
Sustainability Note
Respect fragile alpine habitats—pack out trash, stay on marked runs, and support tour operators who contribute to local conservation and search-and-rescue efforts.
Continue Reading
Red Rock Primer: Two Hours Inside Sedona’s Scarlet Circuits
A fast, guided primer to Sedona’s iconic formations: two hours of geology, Wild West stories, and the best photo frames that will shape the rest of your trip.
Sedona, Arizona
Between Plates and Parliament: Hiking Thingvellir’s Rift and Waterways
Where Iceland’s parliament met and two continents keep a slow, visible disagreement—Thingvellir combines short cultural walks, long ridgeline hikes, and the surreal clarity of Silfra. It’s an intimate, elemental introduction to Icelandic landscape and history.
Reykjavík, Capital Region