Although Chile is famous for its ski centers, snow also falls on volcanoes, lagoons, canyons, and monkey puzzle forests that transform into movie-like settings in winter.
Thanks to the altitude of the Andes Mountains and the latitude of the south of the country, these five destinations await you with postcard views where the silence becomes deeper and the world seems to stand still. Take note of when to visit them to have the best experience.
1. Cajón del Maipo
The best option due to its proximity to Santiago. When the snow falls, Cajón del Maipo transforms into a landscape of snowy peaks, frozen rivers, and mountain air that instantly clears the mind. Ideal for a day trip or a weekend getaway, with options for all budgets.
Must-sees: the Termas Valle de Colina and Baños Morales, where the contrast between the heat of the thermal water and the cold of the snowy landscape creates an unforgettable experience. (Check their social media before heading up, as access depends on snowfall).
- How to get there from Santiago: 90 minutes by car via Route G-25 towards San José de Maipo. You can also take a bus or a “colectivo” (shared taxi) from the Las Mercedes Metro station.
2. Inca Lagoon
Located next to the Portillo Ski Center, the Inca Lagoon is one of the most hypnotic winter landscapes in central Chile. Its waters change color depending on the light—shifting from turquoise to emerald green—and in winter they’re framed by completely snow-covered peaks. It’s an easy-to-reach destination that stuns with its beauty without requiring long hikes.
- How to get there from Santiago: About 2 hours by car along Route 60 CH heading east, passing through Los Andes and the Caracoles tunnel. The lagoon is located just before the Los Libertadores border crossing.
3. Malalcahuello National Reserve
In winter, the Malalcahuello National Reserve is another world. Ancient araucaria trees appear blanketed in snow, the Lonquimay volcano smokes above a white mantle, and the trails through native forests and volcanic fields turn into routes for snowshoes and sleds. It’s one of Chile’s most unique and photogenic landscapes.
- How to get there from Santiago: Fly for one hour or take a nine-hour bus ride to Temuco. Then drive about 1.5 hours north along Route 181 to Malalcahuello.
- Get your ticket here.
4. Conguillío National Park
In winter, Conguillío National Park is pure magic. The ancient araucaria trees look as if they’re wearing white hats, Llaima volcano is covered in an immaculate white, and the trails between solidified lava fields become snowshoe routes. A landscape that uniquely blends prehistoric and wintry elements, found nowhere else in Chile.
- How to get there from Santiago: Travel one hour by plane or nine hours by bus to Temuco. From there, approximately 1.5 hours by car to the park entrance via Melipeuco or Curacautín.
- Get your ticket here.
5. Laguna del Laja National Park
In the Biobío Region, the Antuco Volcano and its glacial lagoon form one of the country’s most breathtaking winter settings. Laguna del Laja National Park is covered in snow between June and September, transforming its volcanic plains into an Arctic landscape that is hard to believe is in Chile. Uncrowded and easy to access, it is a gem that deserves more attention.
- How to get there from Santiago: Approx. 5 hours by car via Route 5 South to Los Ángeles and then 80 km east via Route Q-61.
- Get your ticket here.
6. Osorno Volcano
The Osorno Volcano rises 2,653 meters above Lake Llanquihue with a presence that impresses long before reaching its base. While it is known for its ski slopes, the site also features chairlifts and trails to beautiful viewpoints where you can enjoy the snow at your own pace. From the Glacier Station, the view over the lake and the Calbuco Volcano in the background is one of the most stunning postcards of southern Chile.
- How to get there from Santiago: You can fly to Puerto Montt and then travel to Puerto Varas, or take a direct bus for approximately 12 hours. From Puerto Varas, you must travel one hour by car along the lake to the base of the volcano via Ensenada.
7. Magallanes National Reserve
Just a few kilometers from Punta Arenas, the Magallanes National Reserve offers a unique winter experience at the southern end of the world. Its lenga and ñire forests are covered in snow between May and September, and its trails let you explore silent landscapes with views of the Strait of Magellan. It’s the ideal destination for those looking for snowy Patagonia without having to embark on major expeditions.
- How to get there from Santiago: Fly to Punta Arenas (about 4 hours). From there, the reserve is just a 15-minute drive west along Route Y-290.
- Get your ticket here.
Things to consider before you go
- Check road conditions before heading out. Between June and September, access to several of these destinations may be closed due to heavy snow or ice.
- Check with CONAF if your destination is a national park. In extreme conditions, parks may close temporarily for safety. You can check the status at conaf.cl.
- Use a suitable vehicle. If you are going in your own car, keep in mind that 4WD or at least high clearance is recommended for most of these destinations. Carry snow chains if you are traveling during the snowy season.
- Dress warmer than you think you’ll need. The wind chill at high altitudes can be very different from the city, even on sunny days.
- Inform someone of your route and estimated return time, especially in more remote destinations like Laguna del Maule.
- Bring water, snacks, and charge your phone. Mobile coverage is limited or non-existent in several of these areas.
