When Do the Ski Resorts Near Santiago Open in Winter 2026?

The white curtain has already fallen over the Andes Mountain Range. Every year, when the first nee-laden storms sweep across central Chile, thousands of people—from Santiagoresidents living less than two hours from the mountains, to travelers from Brazil, Argentina, the United States and Europe—start asking the same question: when do the ski resorts near Santiago open?

The answer, as always happens in the high mountains, depends on the snow, but the 2026 season already has dates, news and plenty to tell.

Valle Nevado: the first to say "welcome"

Valle Nevado once again established itself as the first major resort to open its slopes, officially kicking off the season on June 19, although partially, with the Vaivén chairlift operating while the rest of the lifts gradually came online as snow conditions allowed. Since then, operations have grown day by day: the resort currently has 5 lifts running —including Mirador, recently added—, making it the only ski resort available in the entire Santiago Metropolitan Region at this point in the season.

The resort is celebrating this long weekend with a season-opening party at Plaza La Góndola, this Saturday at 5:00 PM. But the news doesn't stop there: following its integration with La Parva under the Tres Valles concept, both resorts now operate with a single pass, creating one of the largest skiable domains in South America, with more than 1,700 hectares, 87 runs and 30 lifts. For 2026, Valle Nevado is projecting 320,000 visitors, hotel occupancy above 90%, and is adding the new Aconcagua Ski Residences, along with an upgraded snowmaking system and a modernized Prado chairlift.

Regarding hotel and dining operations, the Hotel Puerta del Sol opened on June 19, the Hotel Tres Puntas moved up its opening to June 25, and starting June 26 the Hotel Valle Nevado and Aconcagua Ski Residences begin operating. The dining offering is also expanding progressively, adding restaurants such as La Fourchette, Monte Bianco, Bajo Zero and Restaurant Sur.

El Colorado: the adrenaline returns this Saturday

El Colorado confirmed its partial opening this Saturday, June 27, marking the official start of winter at its resort. Thanks to the intensive work of the mountain crew, around 2 kilometers of slopes have already been groomed for all levels —beginner, intermediate and advanced—, with the Pingüino, León and Cururo lifts operating between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM.

Farellones: the family-friendly gateway

The resort most beloved by families and by those experiencing snow for the first time, Farellones, opens its doors this Friday, June 26 with a partial opening. The offering includes a panoramic chairlift, sledding, tubing, a mini park, canopy zip-lining and the Sendero Museo, along with dining services such as food trucks and the Iglú Café, during the same 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM schedule.

La Parva: technical terrain, altitude and privileged views

Recognized as the most challenging and technical of the four resorts, La Parva joins the winter celebration this Saturday, June 27 with a partial opening. The Golondrina (Magic Carpet) lift will be available for those starting out in skiing, with group lessons and equipment included through its ski school. Additionally, the Alpha chairlift will offer scenic rides with access to Restaurant 3100, between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

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