Valle Nevado and Cerro Catedral lead early season starts; more resorts to follow this week.
As winter settles over the Southern Hemisphere, ski season in South America is officially underway. While the 2025–26 ski season is still five months away for most Northern Hemisphere resorts, several ski destinations south of the equator have already opened their slopes, with others set to welcome skiers in the coming days.
Ski resorts in South America typically begin operations in early to mid-June, depending on snowfall and weather conditions. This year, recent storms have accelerated preparations at several resorts, allowing a number to announce firm opening dates. SnowBrains reports that additional resorts are expected to open soon, with regular updates on conditions and operations throughout the region.
Below is a list of South American ski resorts that have opened or confirmed their 2025 season launch:
Valle Nevado, Chile – Opened Friday, June 13
Located just 90 minutes from Santiago, Valle Nevado sits nearly 10,000 feet above sea level and boasts more than 2,200 skiable acres. Known for its reliable snowfall and breathtaking Andean views, the resort recorded 23 feet of snow last year and returns in 2025 with improved lift systems, expanded beginner areas, and enhanced guest amenities. The resort began operations last weekend, currently offering 35 inches of snow coverage, 19 open runs, and 12 functioning lifts.
Cerro Catedral, Argentina – Opening Saturday, June 14
An icon of Argentine skiing for more than 80 years, Cerro Catedral is nestled in Patagonia’s Nahuel Huapi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Near the popular tourist city of Bariloche, the resort features 58 runs and 27 lifts, catering to skiers of all ages and abilities. It remains one of the most popular ski destinations in South America.
Cerro Bayo Ski Boutique, Argentina – Opening Tuesday, June 18
Cerro Bayo, a smaller boutique resort in Patagonia, offers 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) of skiable terrain served by 11 lifts. The resort welcomed visitors for snowplay and pedestrian activities on June 7 and will officially open for skiing and snowboarding on June 18.
Nevados de Chillán, Chile – Opening Wednesday, June 18
Often ranked among Chile’s top ski destinations, Nevados de Chillán offers a vast 24,710 acres (10,000 hectares) of skiable area, with 2,720 acres (1,100 hectares) served by lifts. The resort features 28 trails and nine lifts, including one triple chair, three double chairs, and five drag lifts. Following a fresh snowfall, resort officials confirmed they will open on June 18.
As winter progresses, additional resorts in Argentina and Chile are expected to announce opening dates. Skiers planning a trip to the Andes should monitor snow reports and resort announcements for the latest updates. With solid early snowfall and strong preparation by resort operators, the 2025 South American ski season is shaping up to be a promising one.