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. Pehuenche Route and the Maule Lagoon
One of the most impressive and lesser-known routes in central-southern Chile. The Pehuenche Route crosses the foothills until reaching the Maule Lagoon, a body of water at over 2,000 meters high surrounded by snowy peaks. In winter, the road itself is the destination: a white, silent, and almost uninhabited landscape that feels like the end of the world.
- How to get there from Santiago: It is approximately a 4-hour drive to Talca and then via Route 115 heading east. A 4WD vehicle is recommended, and you should check road conditions before leaving.
3. Conguillío National Park
In winter, Conguillío National Park is another world. Ancient monkey puzzle trees appear covered in snow, the Llaima Volcano smokes over a white blanket, and the trails through solidified lava fields become routes for snowshoeing and sledding. It is one of Chile’s most unique and photogenic landscapes.
- How to get there from Santiago: Travel one hour by plane or nine hours by bus to reach Temuco. Then, it’s a 1.5-hour drive to the park entrance, either via Melipeuco or Curacautín.
- Get your ticket here.
4. 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.
5. 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.
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.
