Valle Nevado and Farellones

Valle Nevado and Farellones form the ski and mountain area on the Camino a Farellones in Lo Barnechea, about 55 km east of Santiago in Chile's Metropolitana region. Valle Nevado is Chile's largest ski area near the capital and is linked with La Parva and El Colorado. The journey takes about 1.5-2 hours by car or shuttle up a road with roughly 40 hairpin turns. In the ski season, seasonal shuttles run from Las Condes and Providencia at about CLP 15,000-20,000, and Valle Nevado, La Parva and El Colorado each sell transfers at CLP 15,000-25,000; private transfers and tour vans also operate. Chains are required from June to September, and drivers should carry them. Lifts run roughly June to late September, and a day lift ticket costs about CLP 90,000-100,000 in season. Visitors who do not ski can ride lifts for views, play in the snow, or lunch at mountain restaurants in Farellones and Valle Nevado. Outside the snow season, in October and from November to March, the area is used for hiking and mountain biking, with open views of the Andes. A usual one-day arc is an early departure to beat road traffic, skiing or snow play through the morning and afternoon with a lunch break at altitude, and a descent before late-afternoon queues form on the single mountain road. Weekends in July and August are the busiest, with long lines on the road and at lifts, so weekdays are calmer. Altitude, cold and strong sun call for goggles, sunscreen and warm clothing. Rental gear and lessons are available at the resorts, so beginners can try the slopes without bringing equipment. Summer visitors should check which services are operating before travelling.