Ski Touring Chile's Volcanoes: Villarrica, Llaima, Lonquimay

Part 01

The three classics

Part 02

When to go

The resorts near Santiago get the deepest snow in July and August, but the volcanoes are at their best in spring. From mid-September to October, the snow follows a freeze-thaw cycle: firm in the early morning, then softening into smooth corn by late morning. Timing the descent to that window is the key to a great day.

Winter storms in July and August can bring powder to the volcanoes, but also strong wind, ice and short days. That is why our Iconic Volcanoes trip runs from late September into October.

Part 03

What a volcano day looks like

A typical day starts early. You skin up from the treeline through the araucaria forest, then onto the open cone. Slopes are usually 25 to 35 degrees. Depending on the volcano and conditions, a day can mean around 1,000 to 1,500 m (3,300 to 5,000 ft) of climbing.

Near the top, the snow can turn to wind-packed ice, and ski crampons or boot crampons may be needed. On Villarrica, the guide decides how close to the crater the group goes, based on wind and volcanic gas. Then comes the reward: a long, uninterrupted descent back to the trees.

When the schedule allows, the day ends in natural hot springs before dinner at the lodge.

Part 04

How hard is it?

Volcano touring is physically demanding but not highly technical. You need to:

• Ski confidently on 30-degree slopes in variable snow.
• Skin uphill for several hours, several days in a row.
• Be comfortable on firm, icy snow in the morning.

If you have done a few backcountry days at home, you are probably ready. If you are not sure, read What Level Do You Need for Backcountry Skiing in the Andes? or ask us.

Part 05

Gear you need

• Touring skis or a splitboard, with skins
• Ski crampons (and boot crampons if the guide asks)
• Avalanche beacon, shovel and probe
• Backpack and layers for wind, sun and cold
• Glacier glasses and high-SPF sunscreen: the spring sun at altitude is strong

We can rent touring gear with advance notice.

Part 06

Access and safety

These are active volcanoes. Access can be restricted depending on the volcanic alert level (set by SERNAGEOMIN) and national park rules (CONAF), and plans can change. Our guides check conditions every day and choose the volcano with the best snow, weather and access.

Part 07

Two ways to ski the volcanoes with us

• Iconic Volcanoes: 8 days, lift-free, Lonquimay, Llaima and Villarrica, groups of 3 to 6 with a 1:4 guide ratio. From USD 4,200. Pick-up and drop-off at Temuco airport.
• Nevados de Chillán & Corralco: 8 days, half resort, half touring. A good choice if you want lifts and volcano terrain in the same trip. From USD 4,900.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions