Overview
Northern hemisphere ski season is over — the lake district of southern Chile delivers the critical components of adventure, culture, and excellent ski touring when slopes back home are bare. Stunning snow-covered volcanoes climb out of the woodland like guardians of a Shangri-la. Excellent corn-snow skiing with slopes between 30–45 degrees as we search the best conditions day after day on wide-open faces. Over 8 days we'll climb and ski four Andean volcanoes: Volcán Lonquimay (9,400'), Volcán Llaima (10,253'), Volcán Villarica (9,341'), and Volcán Osorno (8,701'). Each volcano has its own character. Lonquimay is accessed via the Corralco ski area — we ride the chairlift to the highest point then make a full ascent and long descent. Llaima features a vast crater, twin peaks with spectacular smoking fumaroles, and araucaria forests. Villarica towers over the resort town of Pucón on the shores of a beautiful lake — a 5,000 vertical foot climb with a descent that can take just 25 minutes in good conditions. Osorno, our final volcano, offers 360° views of surrounding lakes including Llanquihue and Todos Los Santos. We stay in comfortable Chilean lodges between summit days, with access to natural hot springs (termas) to restore tired muscles. All meals on the mountain are included. This trip combines world-class backcountry skiing with a genuine cultural experience in one of the world's most beautiful regions.
Highlights
Itinerary
Arrival in Malalcahuello
On August 15, participants arrive and transfer from the Temuco airport to Malalcahuello, where they will check into the Endemiko Lodge.
Lonquimay Summit Attempt
On August 16, the expedition will attempt the summit of Lonquimay volcano (2865msnm). The ascent involves an elevation gain of 1365m before returning to the Endemiko Lodge in Malalcahuello for the night.
Llaima Ascent and Transfer to Pucón
On August 17, guests will travel to the Llaima ski resort to attempt the summit of Llaima volcano (3125msnm), featuring an elevation gain of 1600m. Following the climb, the group will drive to Pucón for an overnight stay at the Hotel Antumalal.
Volcanic Skiing Exploration near Pucón
On August 18, the itinerary includes an attempt to summit the Quetrupillan volcano (2360msnm) with an elevation gain of 1300m, or alternatively, the group may opt for skiing on the Villarrica volcano or at the base of the Lanin volcano, staying at the Hotel Antumalal in Pucón.
Villarrica Summit Attempt
On August 19, the group will undertake a summit attempt of the Villarrica volcano (2848msnm), which features an elevation gain of 1600m. The night will be spent in Pucón at the Hotel Antumalal.
Skiing at Osorno Volcano
On August 20, the expedition moves to the Osorno volcano (2652msnm) for a day of skiing on the Valle Escondido, involving an elevation gain of 500m. Dinner and overnight lodging are provided at the Teski Osorno Volcano facility.
Osorno Summit Attempt and Return to Puerto Varas
On August 21, the final summit attempt of the Osorno volcano (2652msnm) will be conducted, featuring an elevation gain of 1500m, followed by a return to Puerto Varas for an overnight stay at the Hotel Bellavista.
September – November
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