Volcano Ski Mountaineering in Chile

volcano lliama, ski mountaineering chile, guided trip

Volcano Skiing in the Araucanía Region

Immerse yourself in an unforgettable volcano ski mountaineering and splitboarding adventure through the rugged Andes of Southern Chile. This action-packed, 9-day backcountry ski trip is designed to elevate your technical mountain skills while introducing you to the dramatic vistas and rich culture of the Araucanía region.

To guarantee unmatched safety and personalized coaching on these big lines, we maintain a strict 4:1 guest-to-guide ratio led by certified ACMG guides.

We approach these trips with a group-centric mindset. It offers the tight-knit feel of a private expedition, but with the open-group dynamic of like-minded adventurers.

Depending on conditions and group goals, our map of potential objectives includes:

  • Iconic Peaks: Lonquimay, Llaima, and Rukapillán (Villarrica)
  • Classic Ascents: Sierra Nevada, Antuco, and Quetrupillán
  • Stunning Vistas: Mocho-Choshuenco, Osorno, Lanín, Tolhuaca, and Casablanca

Unwind in Style: Chilean Hospitality

Big days in the high alpine require proper recovery. We base out of comfortable, hand-picked accommodations featuring fully equipped kitchens and plenty of space to stretch out and prep gear. After standard-setting days harvesting Pacific corn snow, you can unwind the traditional Chilean way: soaking in wood-fired hot tubs or natural geothermal hot springs.

If you’re looking for an unparalleled ski mountaineering experience that seamlessly blends world-class volcano skiing, deep cultural immersion, and striking volcanic landscapes, this is your trip.

4 Clients : 1 Guide

Comfortable Accommodations

Chile Volcano Ski Mountaineering & Splitboarding Itinerary

The ultimate backcountry ski touring adventure in the rugged Andes of Southern Chile. This 9-day guided expedition takes you through the stunning Araucanía region to summit and ski some of the world's most iconic active volcanoes.

Trip Details & Dates

  • Trip Length: 9 Days / 8 Nights
  • Upcoming Dates: October 24 – November 2, 2026
  • Guiding: ACMG / IFMGA certified guides (Max 4:1 guest-to-guide ratio)
  • Target Volcanoes: Lonquimay, Sierra Nevada, Llaima, Villarrica, and Quetrupillán

Itinerary

Note on Flexibility: Our daily objectives depend entirely on current snow and volcanic conditions to ensure you harvest the best Pacific corn snow and legendary Andes powder safely.

Day 1: Arrival in Temuco & Mountain Transfer

Fly into Temuco Airport (ZCO), where your certified ACMG guide will meet you. Enjoy a scenic 2-hour drive through lush Chilean farmlands as we head deep into the mountains. Tonight, check into our comfortable mountain accommodations and enjoy a traditional welcome dinner.

Day 2: Volcán Lonquimay & Corralco

Based out of the charming mountain village of Malalcahuello, we kick off our skiing on Volcán Lonquimay. We’ll utilize the Corralco ski resort area at the base for access, soaking in the vibrant Chilean ski atmosphere before touring into the alpine.

Day 3: Sierra Nevada or Volcán Llaima

We hunt for the best snow conditions in the region, targeting either the expansive slopes of Sierra Nevada or the dramatic, rugged flanks of Volcán Llaima.

Day 4: Volcán Llaima (The Araucanía Prize)

Today we focus on  Volcán Llaima. If conditions line up, hitting the massive North Face offers a legendary, continuous ski descent of over 1900m

Day 5: Malalcahuello Backcountry & Geothermal Hot Springs

Enjoy another incredible day exploring hidden backcountry zones around Malalcahuello. Afterward, we unwind the traditional Chilean way: soaking in local thermal hot springs followed by authentic regional cuisine.

Day 6: Travel to Pucón: The Backcountry Capital

We’ll enjoy a relaxed morning before taking a scenic drive south to the lakeside adventure hub of Pucón. After checking into our new accommodations, we'll explore the town's vibrant culinary scene for dinner.

Days 7 & 8: Volcano Skiing from Pucón (Villarrica & Quetrupillán)

Using Pucón as our base, we have two full days to target the region's classic peaks. Objectives include the active, smoking crater of Volcán Villarrica (Rukapillán) or the massive glacier plateau of Volcán Quetrupillán. Evenings are spent enjoying Pucón's world-class restaurants and natural hot springs.

Day 9: Departure via Temuco

Typically, we try to get a half day of skiing before we transfer back to the Temuco airport for your return flights home or onward travels in Chile.

Alternative Volcano Objectives

Our itineraries are highly adaptable. Depending on weather, group energy, and snowpacks, other potential volcano ski objectives include:

  • Volcán Antuco
  • Sollipulli Caldera
  • Mocho-Choshuenco
  • Puyehue
  • Volcán Osorno

Elevation Gain per Day

Group Size

Expect 1200-1900m per Day

4WD Vehicle

4 clients : 1 ACMG Guide

Double Occupancy Accommodations

Comfortable Lodging

Hot Springs

At least one Hot Springs Vist

Chile Volcano Skiing & Splitboarding Trip

Pricing & Availability
  • Price: $3,900 USD per person
  • Availability: Only 1 Space Available!
What’s Included in Your Chile Backcountry Ski Tour?
  • Guided Backcountry Skiing: Enjoy an exclusive, small-group experience with an intimate 4:1 guest-to-guide ratio led by a certified ACMG guide.
  • Chilean Accommodations: 9 days of lodging at comfortable, locally run establishments that offer an authentic Chilean experience (based on double occupancy; private rooms available for an additional fee).
  • Daily Meals: Freshly prepared breakfasts and dinners are included throughout the trip to fuel your mountain objectives.
  • Ground Transportation: All group travel is covered using a rugged 4x4 vehicle tailored for mountain terrain.
  • Hot Springs Visit: Includes entry to a local volcanic hot spring to unwind after big days in the Andes (additional visits can be arranged).
  • Tailgate Après: Unwind after an epic day on the snow with complimentary cold beverages and traditional Chilean après-ski vibes.

Arctos Trip Inventory

The complete Arctos Trip Inventory