Valle Nevado & Farellones Day Trip from Santiago — Skiing, Tubing and High-Andes Views
Escape Santiago for a day in the high Andes: tube the runs at Farellones, then climb higher to Valle Nevado for sweeping alpine views and optional skiing. This small-group tour blends easy access, local knowledge and a full winter-day of mountain activities.
The Experience
Before You Go
Acclimatize before you push hard
Spend your first hour moving slowly at Valle Nevado—altitude (≈3,350 m) affects breathing and balance; hydrate and eat a light snack.
Layer for sun and wind
Temperatures swing; a breathable base, insulating mid-layer and windproof shell will cover sun, cold and gusts on exposed ridgelines.
Book rentals ahead if you plan to ski
If you’ll ski, notify the operator when booking to reserve equipment and reduce waiting time at the resort.
Protect skin and eyes
High-altitude UV is intense—use SPF 50+ and mirrored goggles or sunglasses rated for snow glare.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Look for small lookout turnouts on the drive up for unobstructed views of Santiago’s basin and the Andes spine.
- •Walk past the main plazas at Farellones for quieter sledding slopes favored by locals in the afternoon.
Wildlife
- •Andean fox (culpeo) — rarely seen at higher elevations
- •Various high-altitude birds such as austral thrush and raptors
Conservation Note
Resort operations alter fragile high-Andean environments; stick to marked trails, avoid trampling vegetation during snowmelt, and follow lodge recycling and waste guidelines to minimize impact.
Farellones began as a mining and mountain village; winter sports expanded in the mid-20th century as cableways and lodges were built to serve Santiago’s growing outdoor population.
Photographer's Notes
- • Farellones snow-park entry for candid activity shots
- • Valle Nevado summit viewpoints overlooking the east-facing slopes
- • Drive pullouts for wide-angle Santiago basin panoramas
What to Bring
Insulated waterproof jacketEssential
Keeps you warm and dry during wind or snow at high elevation.
Sun/shade goggles and sunglassesEssential
Protects eyes from glare and UV on bright snowfields.
Water bottle or hydration bladderEssential
Hydration reduces altitude symptoms and keeps energy steady.
Warm gloves and a neck gaiterEssential
Protects fingers and face from wind chill during breaks or tubing.
Common Questions
Do I need previous skiing experience to join?
No — you can visit Farellones’ snow park and tube without skiing experience; skiing at Valle Nevado requires prior experience to safely use longer runs.
Are lifts, equipment or park fees included?
Entrance to snow activities and equipment rental are not included—book rentals in advance if you plan to ski and expect separate fees for tubing parks.
How long is the drive from Santiago?
Allow 60–90 minutes each way depending on traffic and weather; mountain traffic can add time on busy weekends.
Is the tour suitable for children and infants?
Yes—children can join, though infants must sit on an adult’s lap during transit and activities should suit the child’s comfort at altitude.
What happens if there isn’t enough snow?
The operator may cancel for insufficient snow or unsafe conditions; you’ll be offered an alternative or full refund per the cancellation policy.
Can I be picked up from an Airbnb or address outside downtown?
Yes—pickup from non-hotel addresses is possible but you must provide the exact address; pickups far from downtown may incur an extra charge or require a meeting point.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–9 hours
Location
Santiago, Santiago Metropolitan Region
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required for walking on snow and managing stairs and lifts; expect short bursts of exertion at altitude.
Ready to Explore Santiago?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now