Snow in Argentina: when do the Ski Resorts open?

Known for its stunning landscapes and diverse outdoor activities, Argentina becomes a winter wonderland during the snow season. The country's ski resorts offer a perfect experience for snow and winter sports lovers with their ski slopes and activities adapted to each visitor’s preference. From the majestic peaks of the Andes Mountains to the cozy mountain villages, travelers from all over the world can immerse themselves in memorable experiences to discover and enjoy the magic of snow as it can only be discovered in Argentina.

Catedral: Skiing in Bariloche

A little more than 20 minutes from the center of Bariloche, you will find Cerro Catedral, one of the most famous ski resorts in Argentina. With dreamy panoramic views and a variety of activities both on and off the slopes, this destination promises thrills for everyone. 

This year the ski season is projected to be the longest in its history: it begins on June 7 and it has 120 days to go. Also, with more technology and a new quadruple chairlift –which adds to the diversity of means of ascent– the capacity to make the most of every day is expanded, not only for seasoned skiers but also for amateurs and those who want to learn in ski schools.

When it comes to immersive experiences, there is a wide range of hotels and inns at the Catedral Alta Patagonia, which complete the proposals with gastronomy for the most demanding palates.

Every moment in this dream enclave in the province of Río Negro will be an unforgettable adventure for lovers of Nordic skiing and snowboarding and also for those who prefer snowshoeing.

When there is snow in Bariloche

The snow has already arrived in Bariloche and Cerro Catedral has its doors open. The charm of the destination is dressed in white for other amazing panoramic views that can be appreciated not only from Cerro Catedral, but also from other hills such as Campanario, Cerro Otto or the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi.

Where to buy tickets for Cerro Catedral:

Physical points of sale can be found at the Bariloche airport, in the center of Bariloche or at the Unicenter Shopping Mall. Also online on the website https://catedralaltapatagonia.com/ 

Cerro Catedral Fees

The full-day ticket for adults is 125 USD but you can get discounts if you visit it for several days.

Read more: Snow in Bariloche: What to do in winter

Chapelco: snow in Argentine Patagonia

In the heart of Argentinian Patagonia, Chapelco stands as a winter wonderland that captivates snow and winter lovers. With its towering mountains and slopes, this destination promises a unique skiing experience. Chapelco has already announced its opening to the public for June 15 and is ready to receive its first visitors.

From beginners to professionals, there are options for skiers of all levels who decide to take a vacation in Argentina. Also, for those who choose other activities, such as sledding with husky and Siberian dogs, snowshoe hikes and snowmobile excursions.

The proximity to San Martín de los Andes is a plus. This charming alpine village is characterized by the hospitality of the people and the regional and international cuisine of delicacies. An experience that, this season, benefits from the 38 weekly flights planned from Buenos Aires.

In addition to the improvements in ski transport and slopes, this year travelers who visit the Chapelco Ski Resort will be able to enjoy a new space, the Mallín Refuge, among many activities and events, ideal for those who want snow. 

San Martín de Los Andes has daily flights from Buenos Aires through Aerolíneas Argentinas and Jet Smart, and flights from Córdoba (2 weekly) and Rosario (3 weekly).

Where to buy tickets for Cerro Chapelco:

In the city of San Martín de los Andes you can find several travel agencies that sell tickets and provide services to take you to the hill. Online, you can buy on their official website: https://www.chapelco.com/. You can also make inquiries by sending an email to ventas@chapelco.com. 

Chapelco Fees:

The full day ticket is 101 USD but check the website and its different fees according to age or number of days you visit.

Las Leñas: the jewel of skiing in Mendoza

In the heart of the Andes Mountains, Las Leñas announced its opening to the public for June 29. Located in the province of Mendoza, and near the town of Malargüe, this internationally renowned ski center promises more adrenaline for this year, as it will have a new Adventure Park to enjoy sledding and sliders. 

With its soaring peaks and premium snow powder, Las Leñas stands out for its challenging slopes and natural beauty that envelops visitors. Those who choose to stay in glamping or mountain hotels, ready to relax after a day of great fun, or those who dare to go on guided excursions beyond the traditional circuits will be especially impressed.

Where to buy tickets for Las Leñas:

You can buy your day or season ticket on the official website https://laslenas.com/ or by consulting the email reservas@laslenas.com. Also find out what's new on their Whatsapp channel

Las Leñas Fees:

The full-day ticket is approximately $109 USD for adults and you can get discounts for more days.

Read more: Snow has arrived in Argentina: where to ski in Patagonia

Cerro Castor: the southernmost ski resort in the world

The End of the World also offers an unforgettable experience. The Cerro Castor ski resort lies in the extreme south of Argentina, in Tierra del Fuego.

With a snow season starting on June 28 and running through October, the destination offers an idyllic experience in a wild and unspoiled environment. At the same time, on its 25th anniversary, among the novelties of the season are the expansion of the artificial snow network and renovations in its restaurants, great hosts after a day full of emotions.

From night skiing to snowmobile excursions and adventures in the largest snow park in South America, the variety of activities surprises all travelers, who every year also enjoy the National Winter Festival (which begins on July 9) with its beautiful torchlight descent and proposals that combine Fuegian culture, local gastronomy and Argentine music.

Where to buy tickets for Cerro Castor:

You can buy tickets online on the home page of its official website: www.cerrocastor.com and you can also download the app to know the conditions of the track and the maps. You can also get tickets at the physical ticket offices of Cerro Castor, located at the base of the hill and at the Rental Ciudad location, in the center of Ushuaia.

Cerro Castor Fees:

For the elderly, fee per day is 67 USD until July 5 and after September 21, and 94 USD between July 6 and September 20.

Other Ski Resorts in Argentina:

Other very important ski centers, such as Caviahue in Copahue, Cerro Bayo in Villa La Angostura, La Hoya in Esquel and Laderas, in El Bolsón, cannot be missed either. This offer also gives variety to those travelers who want to visit more than one ski center or venture into not so classic destinations such as Bariloche.

La Hoya: https://skilahoya.com/ 

Laderas: https://laderas.com.ar/ 

Cerro Bayo: https://compra.cerrobayo.com.ar/ 

Caviahue: https://www.caviahue.com/ 

How to travel to Argentina's ski resorts?

Connectivity is key to getting to these must-see ski resorts in Argentina. There are many direct flights from Buenos Aires to the main cities near these winter destinations. In addition, some have direct international flights, such as Bariloche, San Martín de los Andes, and Mendoza.

Bariloche, one of the most chosen gateways to the region of lakes and mountains of Argentine Patagonia, is also the starting point to reach San Martín de los Andes by land, through the emblematic Route of the Seven Lakes. This panoramic route dazzles those who travel it and is one of the ways to connect Catedral and Chapelco ski centers.

Photo credits: Chapelco, Catedral, Las Leñas y Castor.