
Chapelco Ski Resort
Chapelco Ski Resort offers breathtaking Patagonian landscapes and diverse ski terrain, perfect for a winter escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better snow

Chapelco Ski Resort
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better snow

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Chapelco Ski Resort offers breathtaking Patagonian landscapes and diverse ski terrain, perfect for a winter escape.
"Fantastic place, town and mountain are beautiful, with great terrain and snow."

🚗 Parking Pointers
Arrive early to secure parking, or consider shuttles from town. Some visitors have had to walk .
🎿 Gear Up Smartly
Rentals are available, but check maintenance. One user's ski broke due to lift issues .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Mountain Views
Summit
Breathtaking vistas of the Andes and surrounding lakes await from the top. A truly unforgettable sight!

Ski-in/Ski-out Cabins
Las Pendientes slope
Experience ultimate convenience with accommodations directly on the slopes, allowing you to ski right to your door .

Diverse Ski Terrain
Various slopes
From beginner-friendly areas to challenging red runs like 'Panamericana' , Chapelco offers something for every skill level.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Season
Parking and Access Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Pointers
Arrive early to secure parking, or consider shuttles from town. Some visitors have had to walk.
🎿 Gear Up Smartly
Rentals are available, but check maintenance. One user's ski broke due to lift issues.
💰 Value for Money?
Some find it expensive compared to European/US resorts.
Consider your budget.💧 Pack for All Weather
Even on sunny days, mountain weather can change rapidly. Layers are key!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Pointers
Arrive early to secure parking, or consider shuttles from town. Some visitors have had to walk.
🎿 Gear Up Smartly
Rentals are available, but check maintenance. One user's ski broke due to lift issues.
💰 Value for Money?
Some find it expensive compared to European/US resorts.
Consider your budget.💧 Pack for All Weather
Even on sunny days, mountain weather can change rapidly. Layers are key!
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is stunning! Don't forget your camera or phone for epic shots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chapelco Ski Resort offers stunning natural beauty and diverse ski terrain, making it a favorite for many. Visitors praise the picturesque town and mountain, along with good snow conditions. However, some reviews highlight issues with parking, lift maintenance, and perceived high costs, leading to mixed experiences.
"Lifts work half of time, bathrooms always dirty, parking not big enough so you have to park 1km away and of top of that, they charge you as if you were skiing on a top ski resort in europe/usa. Better go to chile and don't waste your money here"
Augusto Bublath
"Awful experience. A definite no go.
1- no parking lots, so I had to park 15 min walking distance. My feet got hurt with the ski equipment.
2- bad infrastructure: the ski gondola stopped twice in the ride had to wait under the sun for 10 minutes, twice!!!!
3- full of people and not enough space.
4- super expensive: half a day 70 USD for off season, rather go ski in Colorado for that price."
Chelo Cavazzoli
"My ski broke due to bad maintenance of the lift — the chair was so close to the ground that the ski got stuck and broke in 2 pieces.
I got lucky that only my ski broke, as my leg could be in 2 pieces as well.
I contacted the resort and all they could do is say "sorry for your loss, but we are not responsible for your equipment". It seems that they are not responsible for the maintenance of the resort as well."
Lucas Itto
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Chapelco Ski Resort from San Martín de los Andes is by car, which takes about 30-40 minutes. Shuttle services and taxis are also available. Some visitors have opted to rent a car for flexibility.
Yes, you can travel from Bariloche to Chapelco. The journey typically involves driving, which can take around 3-4 hours depending on road conditions. Renting a car is a popular option for this route.
Road conditions can vary significantly during winter. It's essential to check local advisories and ensure your vehicle is equipped for snow and ice, especially if driving yourself. Chains may be required.
While private transfers and taxis are readily available from San Martín de los Andes, dedicated public bus routes directly to the resort might be limited. It's advisable to check current schedules with local tourism operators.
The nearest airport is San Martín de los Andes Airport (CPC), which receives flights from Buenos Aires. From the airport, you can arrange transfers to Chapelco Ski Resort.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lift ticket prices vary depending on the season and duration. For example, a half-day ticket in the off-season was reported to be around 70 USD.
It's best to check the official Chapelco Ski Resort website for the most current pricing.Yes, purchasing lift tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and potentially avoid queues at the ticket office.
Chapelco typically offers different pricing tiers for children, seniors, and sometimes students. Check their official website for detailed information on age-based discounts and eligibility.
Operating hours for the ski lifts usually start in the morning and run until late afternoon. These hours can be subject to change based on weather conditions and time of year. The resort had its longest season in 2024, open from June 15 to October 13.
Parking availability can be an issue, and while not explicitly stated as a separate fee in all reviews, the overall cost of visiting the resort is considered high by some.
It's wise to confirm any parking charges.🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience
Chapelco boasts a variety of slopes catering to all levels, from gentle beginner areas to challenging red runs like 'Panamericana'.
There are also ski-in/ski-out options available.Yes, ski and snowboard lessons are offered for all ages and skill levels, including specialized programs for children. The 'Las Pendientes' area is noted as being great for learning.
Facilities include restaurants, rental shops, and ski schools. However, some visitors have noted issues with bathroom cleanliness and a lack of lockers for belongings.
Absolutely! Chapelco is a popular destination for snowboarders, with various terrains and a vibrant atmosphere.
There have been reports of ski gondolas stopping during rides, leading to waits.
The resort administration advises that rescues may be charged if signals are not respected.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Chapelco offers several dining establishments, including restaurants like Jabalí, known for its location and ambiance.
You can find options ranging from quick bites to more formal meals on the mountain.While there are dining facilities, bringing some snacks and drinks can be a good idea, especially for families or those looking to save money. However, there are no specific mentions of restrictions on outside food.
Information on specific dietary options is not widely available in reviews. It's advisable to inquire directly with the restaurants at the resort or explore dining options in San Martín de los Andes.
Food prices at ski resorts can be on the higher side. While specific costs aren't detailed, some visitors consider the overall experience expensive.
San Martín de los Andes offers a variety of dining experiences, from local Patagonian cuisine to international flavors. Jabalí Restaurant is a notable spot mentioned for its lakeside setting.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views.
Any viewpoint overlooking the Andes and the lakes will provide stunning backdrops. Drone shots can also capture the vastness of the resort.Yes, the groomed slopes and the surrounding snow-covered mountains provide excellent opportunities for action shots and scenic photography.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permits or specific permissions from the resort administration.
Yes, the unique ski-in/ski-out cabins are picturesque and make for great photos, especially with the snowy mountain backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond skiing, the resort and town offer activities that can entertain younger visitors. While specific kid-focused amenities aren't heavily detailed in reviews, the general atmosphere of a mountain town in winter is often magical for children. Consider packing plenty of warm clothing and snacks to keep everyone comfortable and happy throughout the day.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for accommodation options slightly further from the immediate slopes or explore deals in San Martín de los Andes. While renting a car offers flexibility, compare prices for rentals and fuel with shuttle or taxi services to find the most economical transport option to and from the resort.
🏂 Snowboarders
Ensure your snowboard gear is in good condition, as there have been reports of equipment issues related to lift maintenance. Familiarize yourself with the resort map to identify areas best suited for snowboarding, and always ride within your abilities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Chapelco's Slopes
Beyond the groomed runs, Chapelco offers stunning natural beauty. The resort's layout provides breathtaking views of Lake Lácar and the surrounding Patagonian landscape from various points on the mountain. This scenic backdrop enhances the overall skiing experience, making it more than just a day on the slopes. The resort has also seen a long ski season, with 2024 being its longest ever, open from mid-June to mid-October thanks to abundant snowfall.
When planning your day, consider the lift system. While generally efficient, there have been instances of lifts stopping, which can cause delays. It's also worth noting that some visitors have expressed concerns about the maintenance of certain facilities and equipment, with one user reporting a broken ski due to lift issues. Always prioritize safety and report any concerns to resort staff.
The Chapelco Experience: Beyond the Slopes
Dining options are plentiful, both at the resort and in San Martín de los Andes. Restaurants like Jabalí offer a taste of local Patagonian cuisine with beautiful views. For those seeking a unique stay, there are even tiny houses available on the slopes, offering an intimate winter retreat. The town also provides opportunities for shopping and exploring local crafts.
It's important to be aware of the overall cost of visiting Chapelco. Some reviews suggest that the resort can be expensive, particularly when compared to international standards, and that parking can be an issue, sometimes requiring a significant walk. Despite these points, many visitors find the beauty of the location, the quality of the snow, and the overall atmosphere to be well worth the visit, making it a fantastic getaway.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit