Valle Nevado & Farellones: Andes Ski Day Trip with Pickup

Summary

Andes mountain adventure with snow, ski & Farellones village

You’ll ride from Santiago into the heart of the Andes for a day split between Farellones village fun—think zipline, sledding, or just coffee—and Valle Nevado’s sweeping ski slopes. Local guides share stories along every curve, and there’s plenty of time for photos or simply soaking in mountain air before heading back down.

What’s the experience like?

The road started winding right after we left Santiago — you could feel the city drop away as our van climbed into the Andes. I kept counting the curves (our guide joked about “curve 32” being the best viewpoint) and he was right; when we stopped there, the air hit colder and sharper than I expected. Everyone got out to take pictures but honestly, I just stood there for a minute watching sunlight flicker off the snowy ridges. There’s something about that silence up high that sticks with you.

Farellones village came next. It’s not big, but it feels like a proper mountain spot — kids bundled up everywhere, people laughing near the zipline, some folks just nursing coffees outside. Our guide pointed out the different activities in Farellones Park (I tried “skibunda” — basically sliding down on a plastic sled — and landed halfway in a snowbank; my gloves were soaked but I couldn’t stop laughing). The cable car looked tempting but I ended up watching some local teens try canopy instead. It’s all pretty relaxed; nobody rushing you.

Valle Nevado is only a short drive further but it feels like another world — huge open slopes and lifts stretching way above us. Some people went straight for ski rentals; I just wandered around taking it in, half-wishing I’d learned to snowboard before this trip. You don’t have to ski though; even just riding the cable car gives you wild views across the Andes. Our guide told stories about how Valle Nevado became South America’s biggest ski area (I didn’t know that), then let us explore at our own pace. By late afternoon my cheeks stung from wind and sun — not sure if it was exhaustion or happiness or both.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Valle Nevado and Farellones full day tour

• Depart from Santiago at 05:30
• Stop at Farellones viewpoint for photos
• Enjoy activities at Farellones Park
• Visit Farellones village and nature
• Explore Valle Nevado ski center
• Ride cable car at Valle Nevado
• Return to Santiago by 18:00

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Valle Nevado & Farellones tour?

Yes, roundtrip transportation from your hotel is included.

Can beginners enjoy activities at Farellones Park?

Yes, Farellones offers activities for all ages and skill levels.

How long does it take to reach Valle Nevado from Santiago?

The drive takes about 1-2 hours depending on weather and traffic.

Are there options besides skiing at Valle Nevado?

Yes, you can enjoy cable car rides or explore the facilities without skiing.

Is lunch included during this day trip?

No lunch is included; you’ll have free time to buy food at stops.

Are infant seats available on this excursion?

Yes, specialized infant seats are available upon request.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with heart conditions?

No, it’s not recommended for those with poor cardiovascular health due to altitude and activity level.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Santiago, comfortable transport with WiFi on board, guidance from a local expert who speaks your language, plus all access to Farellones Park activities and time to explore Valle Nevado before returning in the evening.