Where to stay if you don’t have a car
If you’re not going to rent a car, the most practical option is to stay at the resort itself. Valle Nevado has hotels at different price points, and everything is ski-in/ski-out — you leave your room and you’re on the slopes. No waiting, no shuttles, no depending on anyone.
The more affordable alternative is Farellones, the town 5 minutes from the resort. There are cheaper accommodations and frequent shuttles between the two. It works well if you prioritize budget over convenience.
What we don’t recommend: staying in Santiago if you want to ski for more than one day. The round-trip transfer takes between 3 and 4 hours out of your day.
How many days do you need to ski Valle Nevado?
For an intermediate-to-advanced skier, at least 3 days. The resort connects with El Colorado and La Parva with certain lift passes — if you get the combined pass, you need 4–5 days to make the most of all three resorts.
Off-piste and backcountry skiing are where Valle Nevado really stands out for expert skiers. If that’s your level, don’t settle for less than 4 days.
How do you get there from Santiago?
There are two main options:
Shared transfer — the most common option for travelers without a car. They depart from central points in Santiago, are punctual, and are affordable. We offer a direct transfer from Santiago to Valle Nevado with online booking — we recommend booking in advance, especially on weekends, because they fill up.
Taxi/private transfer — more expensive but flexible in terms of timing. Useful if you’re traveling in a group or with a lot of luggage.
What else should you book before flying?
Ski or snowboard equipment. This is the most common mistake: arriving at the resort and waiting in line at the rental shop on the first day. During peak season, you can lose 1–2 hours on the slopes.
The solution is to book online before leaving home. We arrange rentals with pickup in Santiago:
You arrive with everything ready. No lines, no surprises.
The lift pass. During peak season, it’s best to buy it online in advance — ticket-window prices are higher and there may be waits.
Tips for your first solo international trip
- Altitude affects you more than you expect. The resort is over 3,000 m above sea level. Take it easy on the first day, even if you’re a good skier.
- Mornings are very cold, but afternoons can surprise you. Wear layers and don’t underestimate the Andean sun — it can burn even when it’s cold.
- Santiago is safe and easy to get around. Take advantage of a day before or after your trip to explore the city — it’s worth it.
- August is peak season. Book your accommodation, transfer, and equipment weeks in advance.
Do you have more questions about your trip to Valle Nevado? Write to us — we’ve handled more than 10,000 rentals this season and know every detail of the destination.
