Beating the Heat in Chile: Insider Insights for Your Next Freeride Adventure

Your Ultimate Guide to Freeriding in Chile: Insider Tips from Focha Ochagavia

This season, Chile has been blessed with unprecedented snowfall across the Andes, setting the stage for an incredible freeride experience. As we prepare to head south, we connected with Focha Ochagavia, the Regional Series Director for Freeride Chile, who’s sharing his invaluable insider travel tips for freeriders descending on Chile this season. Let’s dive in!

Chilean Resort Orientation: Finding Your Vibe

Each Chilean resort offers a distinct experience, catering to different preferences and riding styles.

The Central Andes: El Colorado & Valle Nevado

El Colorado and Valle Nevado are high in the Chilean Andes, easily accessible from downtown Santiago. The journey involves a steep road with numerous switchbacks, leading to Farellones Village. This village serves as a fantastic base for exploring these three iconic, interconnected resorts. While they are linked, a multi-resort pass is needed to access all areas.

El Colorado Ski Resort is essentially three resorts in one, all centered around Farellones. It boasts incredible backcountry terrain and an extensive network of lifts. With breathtaking views of Santiago thousands of feet below, it’s the closest resort to the airport, making it possible to hit the slopes the day you arrive. Its terrain suits everyone, from beginners to pros. Farellones village itself is a vibrant hub with a wide range of restaurants, bars, and lodges, appealing to both adrenaline-seeking athletes and families. You’ll hear plenty of Spanish spoken here, as it’s a popular spot for local Chileans.

El Colorado also features one of South America’s best terrain parks, the largest in Chile, with over 40 features and a dedicated freestyle zone. While only a small portion is expert-rated, advanced riders will find the best freeriding to the east of the mountain’s cone, with fun pitches and excellent backcountry zones like Chanchito and Santa Teresa.

This August, El Colorado is set to host the Freeride Family with exciting Freeride Weeks:

August 5-11: Junior Freeride Comp, featuring multicultural activities, a film contest, and JR 2* and JR 3* competitions with top athletes from across the Americas.
August 20-26: Adult Freeride Week, including parties, events with 2* and 4* competitions, film contests, and various educational activities.

Southern Adventure: Nevados de Chillán

Located under a six-hour drive south of Santiago, Nevados de Chillán offers a more remote and rustic experience. The drive provides constant views of the majestic Andes to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. After passing through the city of Chillán (famous for its bratwurst!), you’ll head into the rural foothills, greeted by the immense volcanoes of Nevados de Chillán, Chillán Viejo, and Chillán Nuevo.

While you can stay slopeside, the nightlife and amenities are more enjoyable further down the valley in Las Trancas. This quaint town, with its single paved road, features various restaurants, bars, and lodging options. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a unique experience, nestled in a vast forested valley surrounded by towering mountains and smoking volcanoes.

Nevados de Chillán receives the highest average annual snowfall and boasts the largest vertical drop of any resort in South America. Inbounds, you can explore nearly 3,000 feet of canyons, bowls, and natural half-pipes carved by ancient lava flows. For the more adventurous, out-of-bounds terrain offers 5,000-foot descents down steep chutes and couloirs. Often compared to Mt. Baker, it’s at the base of the impressive Volcán Chillán Viejo. You can even hike to the volcano’s summit and ride down the backside to a hot spring at the base of an incredible touring zone.

Borderland Beauty: Portillo

Portillo is nestled near the Argentinian border, about three hours northeast of Santiago. The drive gradually gains elevation, passing through Los Andes—the last town before the ascent becomes serious. The route transforms from green pastures to a breathtaking treeless landscape, showcasing the massive scale of these mountains.

Air Travel: Smooth Journeys to the Snow

Flying into Santiago (SCL) is likely your best option due to its proximity to all major Chilean resorts. The airport is just 70 km and a 90-minute drive from Farellones, the ski town at the base of El Colorado.

Airport Transfers: We recommend taking a TransVIP van to your hotel in Santiago or arranging private transportation to the mountains through Ski The Andes. Nevados de Chillán is less than six hours south, and private transfers from the airport can be easily arranged there as well.
Jet Lag Friendly: Most international flights arrive early in the morning and depart late at night, which is convenient if you can sleep on the plane. Santiago shares the same time zone as the East Coast of the US (except during daylight savings), so jet lag won’t be a major concern!
Packing Smart: Airlines typically allow one free checked bag, but extra bags can be costly. Try to keep each bag under 50 lbs (23 kg) to avoid additional fees.
Entry Requirements: Traveling to Chile from abroad is straightforward. All COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted. You’ll receive a tourist visa for up to 90 days upon arrival. Just ensure your passport is valid for at least six months past your arrival date.
Immigration & Customs: Be prepared to clearly state and spell out your accommodation details at immigration, as this will be on your visa. Customs is generally easy; you’re allowed personal equipment, including multiple skis, boards, boots, and bindings. If you have excess luggage, you might undergo an extra scan and be asked about your intentions—just explain it’s for personal use, not resale.

Local Transportation: Navigating the Andes

Rental Cars: You can rent a car at Santiago airport, but book in advance and choose a 4×4 truck or SUV (a “jeep”) with high ground clearance and snow chains. Police checkpoints on resort access roads are common, and chains are mandatory; without them, you might be turned away.
Mountain Roads: Access roads to resorts can be treacherous and often close after snowstorms. Plan ahead, check the weather, and allow plenty of time for potential delays due to traffic or stuck vehicles. Hours-long waits are not uncommon.
Chile-Argentina Crossings: If you plan to drive between Chile and Argentina, you’ll need a special permit from your rental agency, which not all agencies provide. While an international driver’s license (from AAA or CAA) is technically required, it’s not always enforced; your local license often suffices, but for safety, consider getting one.
Recommended Transport: Given these challenges, we highly recommend arranging transportation through Ski The Andes or directly with your destination resort. While this doesn’t bypass traffic or closures, you’ll be in experienced hands.
Public Transit in Santiago: Major public bus stations in Santiago can be risky. If you use them, stay alert as you would in any major city.

Accommodation: Your Home in the Mountains

Chilean resorts offer diverse lodging, from convenient ski-in/ski-out options to rustic cabins and grand mountain lodges. We can help arrange accommodations in Farellones, where plenty of choices await.

Farellones: Ideal for accessing El Colorado and Valle Nevado. Consider Lodge Andes for a great all-around option.
Nevados de Chillán: While slopeside lodging is available, the charming forested village of Las Trancas, 1,000 feet below the resort, is a true gem. Here you’ll find cozy cabins, mountain lodges, and unique hostels like Onai Hostel (boho-chic, amazing lounge) and Duub Hostel (like a trip back to the Beatles era). Las Bravas Lodge is centrally located amidst bodegas, bakeries, and bars, while Chillán House offers secluded private cabins.

Important Note on Heating: Many accommodations use wood stoves for heating, and guests are often responsible for maintaining the fire. Some have gas heaters, but expect some rustic elements and be prepared to sleep in warm clothes in case it gets chilly. Let us know your preferences, and we’ll find suitable options.

Lift Tickets & Passes: What to Expect

During peak season, expect to pay between $US 20-79 for a day ticket, plus an initial fee of approximately $US 6 for the required plastic pass. Some resorts offer small discounts for multi-day passes. Valle Nevado often has great rates for fixed-date purchases well in advance.

Special Deal for Freeride Week at El Colorado: Contact wbrown@elcolorado.cl and mention you’re part of the IFSA Freeride Family for a great deal!

Adult Day Ticket Prices:

El Colorado: $US 67
Nevados de Chillán: $US 68
Portillo: $US 62

Practical Tips for Your Chilean Adventure

Traveling in South America is a unique experience—it’s not like visiting typical destination resorts like Vail or Whistler. While it might present challenges, an open mind and preparation can lead to unforgettable times. With Focha and Tyler’s help, you can avoid common tourist pitfalls. As part of the IFSA Freeride Family, you have local connections and are in good hands. Focha owns Base Camp Farellones, a popular spot for athletes, so don’t hesitate to ask him questions.

Language Barrier: Don’t worry if you don’t speak Spanish! Most people in tourism speak English, or they’re happy to communicate with gestures. You’ll be surprised how many friends you can make nonverbally.
Cell Phone: Consider a “Global Travel Pass” from your provider. When you land, keep data roaming on, and you’ll receive a text about rates or the option to activate a $10/day pass for unlimited communication. WhatsApp is essential; download it before you arrive, as most South Americans use it for calls and texts, even with minimal data.
Internet: Internet speeds and connectivity can be more limited than in North America or Europe. While Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and restaurants, cellular service can be unpredictable, especially in crowded areas or during storms. WhatsApp is often your best bet without Wi-Fi. Uploading content or streaming movies might be unreliable.
Tipping: Tipping is typically 10%. Waitstaff will ask if you want to include it.
Electrical Outlets: South American outlets are different; purchase an adapter before you travel. Bring a multi-plug outlet and extension cord if you have many devices. Voltage is usually 220v (North America is 110v). This won’t affect laptops, phones, or cameras, but items like hair dryers and boot dryers might not work and could be damaged. Consider a voltage converter if necessary, but it’s best to travel light if possible.

Special Promotions & Local Connections

This year, Freeride Chile has partnered with Ski The Andes to make your travel experience simple and stress-free. Tyler Mills, Founder and Director of Operations at Ski The Andes, is a New Hampshire native with nearly 20 years of experience skiing in South America. Tyler is ready to assist with logistics, accommodations, transportation, and all the details that might trip you up.

Ski The Andes specializes in curating unforgettable South American ski trips, providing handpicked local guides, unique private cabins, comfortable transportation, cultural events, and amazing culinary experiences. They are well-connected and can help with everything from booking your flight to getting you to events.

Contact Tyler Mills:

Email: Tyler_Mills@SkiTheAndes.com
WhatsApp: +1 603 218 9122
For further inquiries: chile@ifsafreeride.org

For additional local recommendations, check out Andes Camps Freeski. Founded by Matias Doherty (a longtime IFSA competitor and coach) and Martin Oliger (a Freeride Mountaineer athlete), Andes Camps has been facilitating transportation, lodging, and coaching for multiple freeride teams in the Central Valley of Chile since 2017. Contact them at info@andescamps.com.

Get ready for an epic freeride adventure in Chile!