Top 10 Ski Areas in South America: Caviahue

So Caviahue has access to lots of powder – both in the trees on the hill as well as plenty off-piste backcountry access – but you want more? Good. Caviahue in addition to excellent skiing and snowboarding offers visitors mineral rich hot tubs, turquoise lakes and even a view of the majestic Copahue Volcano. In addition the ski area sits just a couple km from Chile if you feeling like exploring more of the surreal scenery of Patagonia. If you’re look for a kick ass vacation, Caiahue really delivers the whole burrito!

Number of Lifts: 9
Proximity to Nearest Major City: Neuquen
Vert: 772m (2533 feet)
Country: Argentina

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Top 10 Ski Resorts in South America: Los Penitentes

Top 10 Ski Resorts in South America: #7 Los Penitentes

This midsized resort offers some decent inbounds intermediate and advanced skiing but the real fun begin when you exit out into the untouched sidecountry. Missing the crowds drawn to more famous resorts such as nearby Las Lenas and Portillo, you will find some pretty extreme sh*t here. The avalanche danger is rated as extreme though so make sure you have been Avalanche certified in the backcountry and go in knowing what it takes to stay alive out there.

Number of Lifts: 8
Proximity to Nearest Major City: 180km to Mendoza
Vert: 614m (2015 feet)
Terrain Park: No
Country: Argentina
Skiable terrain: 300 acres

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Top 10 Ski Areas in South America: Cerro Bayo

This South American ski resort is still under development which means each year this South American ski resort gets a little bit better. The runs here range from beginner to expert – with plenty of off piste skiing for those badass enough to make the trek. We’re talking fresh tracks and plenty of powder for all those adventurous enough to visit this up and coming ski area. As an added kickbutt bonus, this ski area gets an annual average of 20 feet of snow! With all these features, we suggest if you’re coming through South America to backcountry ski or snowboard make a stop at Cerro Bayo to find this hidden gem.

Number of Lifts: 12
Proximity to Nearest Major City: 9 km to Villa de la Angostura
Vert: 660m (2,165 feet)
Skiable terrain: 1977 acres
Terrain Park: Yes
Country: Argentina

Top 10 Ski Resorts in South America: Chapelco

The Best South American Ski Resorts: #9 Chapelco

Most famous for its enchanted forests, Chapelco definitely reserves a spot on every powder junky’s bucket list. In addition to perfectly spaced tree runs, big mountain freestylers and backcountry skiers looking for that adrenaline fix will find enough terrain here to stay occupied for days into weeks. Whether you’re looking for gnarly cliff drops and high gradient back bowls or magical rides through open and lower angle tree runs, Chapelco has got something to offer each and everyone of you powder junkies out there.

Just 20 minutes from the charming town of San Martin de los Andes, after a full day on the slopes, visitors can finish off the day with a healthy slab of steak and a large glass of fine Argentine wine.