skiing in argentina

Best Argentina Ski Resorts + Backcountry Skiing in Argentina for 2024

This is the most comprehensive and updated skiers travel guide to the best skiing in Argentina for 2024. From the top Argentina ski resorts to our favorite Patagonia backcountry destinations. 

Today you are going to learn how to make your dream Argentina ski trip reality. We’ve combined over 2 decades experience skiing Argentina to teach you about the best time to ski Argentina, how to get there, links to our favorite Argentina ski and snowboard tours and much more!

Let’s dive right in. Ski season in Argentina starts in June.

Ski Argentina Destination Guide Contents:

Chapter 1

Welcome to Argentina

Argentina, known for tango, futbol, Malbec wine, Buenos Aires (the “Paris” of South America) and Patagonian gaucho culture, is also known as one of the world’s best ski destinations.

Few countries on the planet can match Argentina’s formidable terrain and dry powder, and there are more than 10 winter sports ski resort destinations and extensive backcountry options to explore. Paired with a trip to ski Chile just across the Andes, you have options to over a dozen additional South American ski resorts.

As Latin America’s second-largest country, Argentina’s landmass is mammoth, encompassing the coastal Atlantic Ocean, undulating swaths of “pampa” grassland, and the eastern half of the rugged Andes Mountains. The Andes cut a mighty range of snow-covered peaks and volcanoes from the epic ski resort Las Leñas, to Cerro Castor resort in Ushuaia, Patagonia, the southernmost ski resort in the world.

Argentines are steeped in culture, both home-grown and from the heavy influence of immigrants from Europe. Namely Italy, Spain and Germany.

I have fallen in love with the Bariloche area of Argentina. For me there is something about ski touring through perfect granite spires while overlooking beautiful lakes that will never get old. Whether it is skiing at the ski resort or ski touring out of one of the backcountry refugios, this area is hard to beat.

Chapter 2

Ski Resorts in Argentina

argentina ski resort: las lenas

Most ski resorts in Argentina offer quality snowboarding, skiing and lodging options, with terrain and infrastructure set-ups that appeal to different kinds of skiers and snowboarders depending on amenity needs and ability levels.

Argentina’s snow sport destinations such as Las Lenas and Catedral in Bariloche are in the international spotlight. However, there are some smaller destinations whose mellow Patagonian vibe and jaw-dropping natural beauty make them well worth a day or two on a guided adventure. We provide links to suggested trips in the next section detailing each ski resort.

Pro Tip! Snowboarders should also check out our exclusive travel guides:

Cost of Day Lift Tickets When Skiing in Argentina

Rates for lift tickets at the Argentina ski resorts change often depending on the peso fluctuation and high inflation. If you’re not planning to do a traditional or custom Argentina ski holidays package or fully hosted guided tour, check the link below as the Argentina ski season nears for updated rates, which will come in handy if you plan to travel the country chasing snow, or just want to take a quick day trip to a local resort.

Argentina lift ticket prices >

The Best Ski Resorts in Argentina

In this chapter we break down our list of the top Argentina ski resorts along with their highlights.

We provide a link to each so you can dive deeper into researching the best resort for your ski trip.

Have a glance at the Argentina ski resorts map for reference on where they are located.

By far, advanced/expert skiers seeking big steeps and deep powder make a beeline to Las Leñas, also for the revered resort’s endless backcountry options.

Backcountry skiers might, however, go for the whole empanada and travel to one of the true backcountry resorts such as Baguales, where cozy lodging and touring and cat skiing assisted terrain puts them in the middle of the wildest regions of Patagonia Argentina.

Argentina Resorts Map
Argentina ski resorts map

Skiers and snowboarders seeking more well-rounded options that include lift-serviced, groomed runs, stylish lodging and high-caliber restaurants, would do better at resorts such as Alta Patagonia Catedral in Bariloche or Chapelco in San Martín de los Andes, especially when traveling with family or children.

Smaller resorts such as Cerro Bayo find a happy medium with an intimate feel but with full services.

Let’s start exploring:

Las Leñas: Mind-blowing Terrain and Nightlife

Las Lenas backcountry tour in Argentina
Steep skiing and endless backcountry options defines Las Lenas

Highlights

  • More skiable terrain than Whistler/Blackcomb
  • Mecca for steep skiing and snowboarding
  • Daily snow cat skiing tours available

Sitting at a dizzying 11,253 feet in altitude, Las Leñas is one of the world’s greatest ski resorts, known for its Marte Chairlift that opens access to mind-blowing wild terrain and backcountry opportunities. As the “go to destination” of the ski resorts near Mendoza, the winter sports destination is centered around a purpose-built village known for its party scene. The focus at Las Leñas, is trying to balance skiing and snowboarding and life off the slopes.

Cerro Catedral Alta Patagonia: Bariloche's Iconic Ski Destination

argentina ski resort in bariloche
Stellar vistas from the top of Cerro Catedral

Highlights

  • Of all the resorts in Argentina, Cerro Catedral has the most international feel
  • One of the few South American ski resorts with serious tree skiing
  • Excellent access to extensive backcountry terrain including a remote hut system for extended overnight trips like the Patagonia Hut to Hut Ski and Splitboard tour
  • Views across the National Park Nahuel Huapi, toward 3,554m Mt. Tronador, are simply incredible
  • Cerro Catedral can see big crowds

Argentina’s most developed and modern ski resort, Catedral in Bariloche is considered the place to ski in Patagonia, with close access to tourist-friendly and entertaining city Bariloche. Outstanding inbounds snowboard and ski terrain with open powder bowls and quality groomed runs.

Cerro Bayo: Argentina Ski Resort in a Temperate Rain Forest

ski argentina
PowderQuest group heading out of bounds in Cerro Bayo

Highlights

  • Boasts a 3.7 mile long panoramic intermediate trail with spectacular views of Nahuel Huapi Lake
  • Easily accessed backcountry with steep bowls and some of the best tree runs in South America through old growth forest
  • One of the most panoramic resorts for beginners learning to ski or snowboard
  • Located outside the charming village of Villa la Angostura, with a surprising amount of top dining options

Intimate, family-friendly resort with few crowds, Cerro Bayo is a “boutique” resort that is far from the bustle of Bariloche / Cerro Catedral, but still offers fun terrain and the same beautiful Patagonian culture and ambiance.

Chapelco: Argentina's Best Ski Resort Winner

best time to ski in argentina
Powder day at Chapelco ski resort

Highlights

  • Outstanding ‘apres-ski’ scene with plenty of dining and shopping options in town
  • With 2,360 feet of vertical drop, the Patagonian resort begins above tree line and ends in dense, old-growth forest
  • Only Argentine resort powered by renewable energy
  • South America’s only ski resort partner of Protect Our Winters
  • On deep powder days in the trees, you can get the feeling of what it’s like tree skiing in Hokkaido, Japan
  • Best intermediate skiing of any Argentine resort

Awarded Best Ski Resort in Argentina by the World Ski Awards, the Chapelco Ski Resort sits high above the charming, Swiss-like village of San Martín de los Andes. A modern and recently upgraded infrastructure, plentiful variety in lodging and dining, and something-for-everyone terrain. Stunning location in the Patagonia wilderness in Lanín National Park.

Baguales Mountain Reserve: A True Argentina Backcountry Gem

argentina backcountry skiing lodge
Just the beginning of what you will ski at Baguales

Highlights

Outstanding backcountry and cat skiing operation located one hour south of Bariloche. Baguales is a one-of-a-kind wilderness experience that easily rivals operations in North America, connected by 6 backcountry huts and rustic lodges. Snow cats and backcountry touring across 25,000 acres of Patagonian terrain, this is one of our top picks for true adventure.

Chapter 3

Best Time to Visit Argentina

Argentina's ski season

You’ll get plenty of looks from travelers while you carry your skis or snowboard bag through the airport in August, but you know something they probably don’t:

When the summer temperatures explode in the Northern Hemisphere, Argentina’s ski resorts are delivering stellar snow conditions in the Southern Hemisphere winter.

Here you’ll discover the best time to go. You’ll also learn about what weather to expect while you’re traveling.

Argentina’s Ski Season: When to Hit The Resorts

Like neighboring Chile ski resorts, the ski season in Argentina generally runs from mid June until October. The best time for resort skiing and snowboarding is mid July until mid September.

You can track how the season is developing by using apps like On The Snow, Snow Chasers and Snow-Forecast for snowfall predictions. Follow PowderQuest’s Instagram for storm updates, photos, and reports. Some ski area websites (Cerro Catedral in Bariloche for example) have webcams and daily snow reports. Opening dates are updated here for the main South American ski destinations.

June

As a general rule, June is still too early to roll the dice on a ski vacation. Yes, we have seen some outstanding Junes over the past 2 decades that we have called The Andes home, but it is recommended to hold off until the snow bases build.

If June is the only time you can get away, one option is to wait to see how the early season develops. Do so by using some of the apps we listed above.

If it is a good early start, you can generally find last minute availability at most hotels and ski areas. The prices this time of season are also the lowest.

July

July generally delivers great skiing conditions. Try to avoid the middle weeks of July when families book up all resorts and village hotels for the South American school holidays. Slopes get crowded and lift ticket prices shoot up. The holiday skier traffic dissipates near the end of the month and snow depth is building.

August to Mid-September

August is the most popular time for international powder hounds looking to ski the best snow conditions in Argentina. If snow quality is paramount, August ranks number 1, with September being a very close 2nd.

Pro skiers and snowboarders flock to Argentina from August until mid-September for photo shoots, movie segments and to build up their social media content. Don’t be shocked if you end up sharing a chairlift ride with one of your idols.

We suggest a guided powder tour in August to mid-September, to take full advantage of the best conditions, visit multiple areas and ski zones you would most likely not find or ski on your own.

Powder in Argentina should be on everyone’s “bucket list”.

September to October

Mid-September to October is time to look deeper into Patagonia for the best ski conditions.

While September can quickly trend to spring skiing conditions, we have seen a pattern over the past several ski seasons of cold temperatures and heavy snowfall well into October. This has especially applied to the Patagonian ski resorts Chapelco, Catedral, and La Hoya.

Resorts tend to close for the ski season between mid-later October, depending on snow conditions and local demand. By now it’s probably time to start researching that must do Japan backcountry ski tour in January or February.

Best Time For Argentina Backcountry Skiing + Splitboarding

argentina backcountry skiing

For backcountry skiing and split boarding in Argentina, it’s a good idea to come early August onward, when a good snow base has had time to accumulate. Backcountry touring can be pushed well into late October due to remote hut access, longer days and spring corn cycles throughout vast Patagonia.

Resort accessed backcountry touring in Argentina is best in August to mid-September for better chances of hitting the snowstorms rolling across the Andes.

Expanding the ski season in Argentina?  Backcountry touring is the answer. You can expect longer days, late morning corn snow cycles and south facing powder. Si amigo, south faces…remember you are below the equator. 

Discover more about these destinations offering backcountry access from the lifts in our ski resort chapter.

Chapter 4

Snow and Winter Weather in Argentina
What to Expect

Like Chile on the western side of the Andes, climatic conditions in Argentina during the Southern Hemisphere winter vary considerably depending on where you are skiing or traveling. Expect a bit of everything, especially in the mountains.

Mendoza-Las Lenas

The high altitude at Las Leñas resort and other off the radar Mendoza area resorts brings drier snow than found in the Patagonia region, with generally large storms that are followed by wind and extended periods of high pressure.

Temperatures vary greatly through the ski season often determined by wind and exposure to the sun.  Overcast days with snow and wind bring temperatures down to the teens to 20F. On sunny days, especially in September, it’s going to feel hot as temps push into the upper 30’s to 40’s.  Sometimes warmer. Sun protection is a must, regardless of what month you are here to ski.

Patagonia Winters

Ski resorts in Patagonia see similar snow and weather as their counterparts on the other side of the Andes, but storms can come into Argentina colder and so the snow is drier.

One downside to snow in this region is lower elevation. Skiers on thin or warmer seasons may need to download off the resort via chairlift as the lower areas of the resorts can have patchy or no snow at the base. Thankfully the best terrain for skiing and snowboarding is found up higher on the resorts.

Patagonia towns in the lower reaches can see rain, so a Goretex jacket and waterproof shoes or boots are a must on your packing list.

Winter Temperatures

  • Around the Bariloche / San Martin regions, temperatures average highs of 40F – 50F, and lows of 30F – 35F.
  • Las Leñas is cooler, averaging highs of 38F to 42F and lows of 27F to 30F.
  • Farther south in Tierra del Fuego, Cerro Castor averages 29-32F lows and 39F to 45F highs.

Chapter 5

Getting to Argentina and The Ski Resorts

how to get to argentina's ski resorts

Before we cover how to get to Argentina and the most popular ski destinations, let’s briefly touch where it is located on the map.

Argentina occupies the southeastern side of the “Southern Cone” of South America, bordered by Chile to the east, Bolivia and Paraguay to the north, and Brazil and Uruguay to the northeast. The nation’s capital Buenos Aires is 11 hours from New York, 9 hours from Miami, and 10½ hours from Dallas.

Getting to Argentina is as simple as an overnight flight from North America or Europe, however access to all of the country’s ski resorts requires an additional domestic flight, unlike the ease of accessing resorts like Valle Nevado near Santiago, Chile.

Argentina’s Airports

Flights arrive at the Aeropuerto Internacional Ministro Pistarini de Ezeiza (EZE airport code) in the country’s capital Buenos Aires. If immediately connecting to a domestic flight, be certain to check from which airport as many domestic flights leave from the Aeroparque Jorge Newberry (AEP airport code) about an hour’s shuttle from Ezeiza.

Getting from airport to airport in the city is quite simple with options ranging from private transfers with English-speaking drivers to bus shuttles to taxi services. Aerolineas Argentinas offers you free shuttle between Ezeiza Airport and Jorge Newbery when connecting on their flights.

The main airport hubs for linking ski resorts in Argentina are:

  • Malargue (airport code LGS) to get to Las Leñas
  • Bariloche (airport code BRC), to access the resorts in the Patagonia Lake District (Cerro Catedral, Cerro Chapelco, Cerro Bayo and La Hoya)
  • San Martin de Los Andes (airport code CPC) for quickest access to Cerro Chapelco
  • Ushuaia (airport code USH) to get to Cerro Castor, on Tierra del Fuego

More details to arrive to each ski area are on our individual resort pages. Check out chapter 2 in this guide for links and info.

From North America

During the South American winter, Argentina is -1 hour from EST, so there is little to no jet lag for North Americans. A good app for airfare to Argentina is Google Flights.

From USA

There are nonstop flights from New York, Miami, Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, and Los Angeles.
American, Delta, United, Aerolineas Argentinas all fly to Argentina.

Cheaper flights on Copa and Aéromexico fly to Argentina from the US but all flights have a stopover in Panama City and Mexico City, respectively.

From Canada

Air Canada offers the convenience of direct flights from Toronto.

From Australia / New Zealand

Currently there are no direct flights from Australia to Argentina. Most flights have a stop in Santiago, Chile before continuing to Buenos Aires. If you plan on skiing in Las Lenas, it may make more sense to just book a flight direct to Santiago, Chile (SCL) and add on a 55 minute connecting flight over to Mendoza. Then ground transfer to Las Lenas.  

Air New Zealand has a direct flight to Buenos Aires from Auckland.

From Europe

There are nonstop flights to Buenos Aires from London (Norwegian, British Airways), Madrid (Iberia), Rome (Alitalia and Aerolineas Argentinas), Paris (Air France).

Ground Transportation

Argentina’s extensive bus network is normally a good way to travel the country but beware of the tremendous distance between Buenos Aires and the eastern Andes.

With a 14-hour trip to Mendoza and a 24-hour trip to Bariloche, air travel is clearly the way to go unless you have plenty of time to explore the country.

Chapter 6

Know Before You Go

Now that you have learned about Argentina skiing, we’ll cover important details and facts you should know before heading south this year.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

Passports should be valid for at least six months before the arrival date.

IMMIGRATION / CUSTOMS / VISAS

Immigration and customs are straightforward when arriving in Argentina.

For most countries, no visa is required to enter Argentina. If a traveler is located outside the European Union a travel visa may apply so be sure to check with the Argentine Consulate.

HEALTH

Tap water is safe to drink.

Travel health insurance is encouraged as most policies from home will not directly pay a clinic or hospital bill while in Argentina (some policies might reimburse medical costs once you’re back home but you’re responsible for paying bills upfront). 

ELECTRICITY

The electrical current is 220V/50Hz. Argentina uses type C two-prong plugs and type I plugs with three flat prongs, with some outlets featuring a hybrid that accepts both type I and C plugs.

CURRENCY & BANKING

The monetary unit in Argentina is the peso.

Many businesses will accept US dollars at a very good rate but always have pesos on hand as well.

As Argentina continues to deal with high inflation and a devaluation of its currency, understanding all the exchange rates can become very confusing. Simply put however, The dollar is king and if you bring crisp, clean $100USD bills you will get the best exchange rate, known as the Dolar Blue.

Dolar Blue is the “black market” exchange rate now pretty much accepted as part of the culture and allows you to essentially double your pesos compared to what you would get taking money out of an ATM. 

If you are not keen on carrying around cash, credit cards are accepted in many areas. MasterCard, Visa, and Amex are all offering a “Tourist Dollar” rate. Generally you are charged the official exchange rate when making a purchase. Within a few days however, you will see a credit to your account for difference between the “official exchange” rate and “tourist” rate. The tourist dollar is currently about 20% less than the blue rate. Check with the credit card merchant to what their rules are as they are all different. 

To summarize, bring USD in cash.

LANGUAGE

Argentine Spanish, heavily influenced by Italian immigration, uses a “sh” sound for double L’s and words with ya and ye.

The Argentine accent is unlike any other Spanish accent in the Latin world, and usually accompanied by animated hand gestures.

TIPPING

It is becoming customary to leave a 10% tip at restaurants. Porters and maids should be tipped whatever the exchange rate for several US dollars is for that day. You do not need to tip taxi drivers.

CRIME & PERSONAL SAFETY

 Travelers should be vigilant of petty crime such as pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins. Never leave any valuables in sight in your car.

Chapter 7

Cool Facts About Argentina

Patagonia was coined after a mythological race of giant humans, fabled to be 15ft tall, were seen on the coast of Argentina in 1520 during Magellan's expedition.

  1. Argentina comes from the name argentum, the Latin word for silver, due to the early belief that the country was replete with the precious metal.
  2. Argentina is the largest Spanish-speaking country. There are, however, more cows than people given the country’s love affair with beef.
  3. The highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere is in Argentina, Mount Aconcagua, reaching 22,841 feet high. 
  4. Argentina is a rich burial ground for dinosaurs, including the Eoraptor, the oldest predator dinosaur fossil found to date, discovered in 1993.
  5. In 2001, Argentina had 5 presidents in 10 days.
  6. Yerba Mate is the national drink of Argentina, a tea-like leaf from the evergreen tree of the holly family, sipped through a metal straw out of a gourd. For gauchos, it keeps hunger at bay when on long horse rides.
  7. The legendary Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid spent time on a ranch near the Andes in Patagonia after fleeing the US.
  8. Patagonia is one of the windiest places on earth. Check out Jordan Manley’s beautiful film below capturing the elements and of course some great ski adventuring with PowderQuest guide Maxi Artoni and pro skier Chad Sayers.

Top Recommended Ski Trips to Argentina

Bariloche Backcountry Skiing + Snowboarding Adventure Tour

Country: Argentina, South America
Style: Guided Backcountry Combos
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Limited to: 6 guests
From: $4299 USD
Dates: Inquire
Learn More >

Guided Argentina Ski Resort Trip to Bariloche + Patagonia’s Treasures

Country: Argentina, South America
Style: All Mountain Resort Off-Piste
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Limited to: 8 guests
From: $3999 USD
Dates: JUL 23-30 / JUL 30-6 / AUG 9-16 / AUG 20-27 / AUG 30-6 / SEP 9-16
Learn More >

Hut to Hut Ski Touring Trip – Patagonia Backcountry

Country: Argentina, South America
Style: Human-Powered Touring
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Limited to: 6 guests
From: $3599 USD
Dates: AUG 29-SEP 5, 2024
Learn More >

Las Leñas Backcountry Ski Touring + Splitboarding Adventure

Country: Argentina, South America
Style: Lift-Assisted Backcountry Touring
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Limited to: 6 guests
From: $4499 USD
Dates: SEP 7-14, 2024
Learn More >

Ultimate Andes Ski + Snowboard Adventure: Farellones Chile to Las Lenas Argentina

Country: Argentina, Chile, South America
Style: Lift-Assisted Backcountry Touring
Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights
Limited to: 6 guests
From: $6999 USD
Dates: AUG 22-31, 2024
Learn More >

Women’s Ski Camp: Backcountry Skiing Camp in Patagonia Argentina

Country: Argentina, South America
Style: Human-Powered Touring, Women's Adventures
Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
Limited to: 6 guests
From: $4899 USD
Dates: AUG 9-15 / AUG 15-21
Learn More >

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