Chile’s Araucanía region offers one of the most aesthetic and consistent volcano ski touring landscapes in South America. Long, sustained volcanic slopes, stable spring snow cycles, and efficient access make it an ideal terrain for strong ski tourers seeking vertical gain and quality descents.
Based in Mallalcahuello, this 9-day expedition targets classic objectives such as Lonquimay, Llaima, Sierra Nevada and Tolhuaca. Daily vertical ranges between 900 and 1,400 meters (3,000–4,600 ft), depending on conditions and group energy.
This program is designed for physically prepared skiers comfortable with sustained uphill effort and long descents in open volcanic terrain. It combines performance-focused ski days with controlled recovery, local culture, and refined mountain logistics.
Snow conditions in this region often produce stable spring cycles, allowing for smooth, flowing descents. Nevertheless, avalanche risk management remains central to our daily decision-making. Routes are selected and adapted based on current conditions, weather patterns, and group dynamics.
Accommodation is based in comfortable mountain lodges in Mallalcahuello, providing a relaxed yet efficient base for daily operations.
This is a land-only expedition. Participants arrange their international flights to Temuco (ZCO). Once on the ground, all logistics, transfers, guiding, and mountain planning are handled by the Chilco team.
Professional local mountain guides AAGM/ACGM with max 1:6 ratio.
Continuous support and coordination by Julián Pajarola, ISAGM ski guide anda AAA pro member.
We stay in comfortable mountain lodges in double or triple occupancy rooms with private bathrooms. Full board is included throughout the program (breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner).
Breakfast, packed lunches & homemade dinners.
Airport transfers & daily mountain transport.
Ski lift access included when required by the itinerary (Corralco – Day 1 warm-up).
On-site logistical support throughout the trip.
Flights to/from Temuco (ZCO) or Santiago (SCL) International and domestic flights are not included.
Participants must carry valid rescue and evacuation insurance for mountain activities. We strongly recomend https://partner.globalrescue.com/chilcoexperiencias
Skis, boots, avalanche gear, and personal items.
Meals or drinks Not Mentioned
Gratuities for guides and drivers.
Arrival at Temuco Airport (ZCO) and private transfer to Mallalcahuello.
Welcome dinner, trip briefing, equipment check.
Warm-up ascent via Corralco area.
Long volcanic descent on wide open slopes.
Introduction to Chilean spring snow conditions.
Ascent to one of the largest volcanic craters in South America.
Unique 4 km wide crater ski terrain.
Optional hot Tubs on return.
A true big-mountain day.
Iconic stratovolcano with vast alpine terrain and aesthetic lines.
Flexible route depending on snow and weather.
Optional:
Malalcahuello hot springs
Light forest tour
Photography / cultural exploration
Equipment tuning
Technical ascent inside Conguillío National Park.
Views over Llaima and surrounding volcanoes.
Long sustained descent through volcanic bowls.
Forest approach through ancient Araucaria trees.
Beautiful mid-altitude ski touring terrain.
Classic Andean backcountry day.
Flexible objective based on snow stability and group level.
Remote volcanic terrain with long flowing descents.
Final summit objective.
Wild setting and scenic ascent.
Celebration dinner in Mallalcahuello.
Transfer to Temuco Airport.
End of program.
Chilco Experiencias de Montaña is a boutique mountain guiding company based in Northern Patagonia, Argentina and Chile.
We specialize in volcano ski touring, backcountry programs, and mountain training experiences designed for small, performance-oriented groups.
Founded in 2020, Chilco combines professional guiding standards, personalized logistics, and carefully selected accommodations to deliver immersive and high-quality mountain experiences.
Our programs focus on safety, strong vertical objectives, and meaningful connection with the landscape and local culture.
