100+ Duffel Bag(s)
A durable duffel bag (100-120L) made of tough material with rugged zippers for gear transport and storage. Can be used as checked luggage and for organizing gear at base locations.
13 Days
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Skiing
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4100.00
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$900
Deposit
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Beginner
A thirteen-day ski mountaineering expedition through Southern Chile's Araucania Region, climbing and skiing five Andean volcanoes with lodge accommodation throughout.
Day-by-day program overview.
Fitness, experience, and preparation.
Gear requirements for this program.
Meals and nutrition on the mountain.
Getting there and local logistics.
Booking, cancellations, and requirements.
Common questions, direct answers.
What climbers are saying.
Thirteen days climbing and skiing four active Andean volcanoes in the Araucania Region, one of the most spectacular ski mountaineering destinations in the world.
Day packs and mule support keep loads light on most objectives, putting the focus on the skiing and the scenery rather than the weight on your back.
Southern Chile's Araucania Region is home to ancient Mapuche traditions, old-growth Araucaria forests, and welcoming towns where the food, the wine, and the pace of life are as much a part of the expedition as the skiing.
Chile was a marvelous surprise. The scenery is stunning, the people are friendly and accommodating and the food is simply delicious. More people should take this trip, not only those who are new to ski mountaineering, but veterans as well, who probably have no idea how challenging, entertaining and rewarding this trip can be.
Arthur M.
Southern Chile's Araucania Region sits at the intersection of ancient Mapuche culture, old-growth Araucaria forests, and some of the most striking volcanic terrain in the world. This thirteen-day expedition moves through that landscape with purpose: five volcanoes, five summit ski descents, and a rotating cast of Chilean towns, lodges, and mountain environments that make the journey between peaks as memorable as the skiing itself.
The volcanoes each have a distinct character. Lonquimay towers above the small village of Malalcahuello with views of eight other volcanoes from the summit and a sustained 35-degree descent off the top. Llaima, which the local Mapuche named the Reawakened One after its last eruption in 2009, is climbed via its imposing northeastern shoulder, a route that sees far fewer ascents than the standard approach. Villarrica rises in a near-perfect cone above the resort town of Pucon, one of only five volcanoes in the world with an active lava lake in the crater. Osorno, standing over the deep blue of Lake Llanquihue, provides the expedition's final descent and a view that puts the whole journey in perspective.
Between objectives, the program returns to comfortable Chilean lodges where the culture does the work. Southern Chile is a place of genuine warmth, extraordinary food, and a landscape shaped by centuries of Mapuche tradition and Andean geography. For most climbers, this is the first time in Chile. The skiing is the reason to come. The country is the reason to stay.
RMI has been leading ski mountaineering expeditions in the Andes for decades, and the guides on this program bring that accumulated experience to every volcano on the itinerary. RMI guides hold formal avalanche certifications, wilderness medicine credentials, and technical rescue training, and carry comprehensive medical and rescue kits throughout the expedition. On a program that moves through four distinct volcanic environments in thirteen days, that depth of preparation matters. Every objective is assessed for avalanche conditions, weather, and route safety before the team moves, and daily forecasts inform every decision about when and how to climb.
What distinguishes this program from independent ski mountaineering travel in Chile is the depth of planning and local knowledge RMI brings to the logistics. Hotels, transfers, permits, and route selection are handled before departure, so the experience in Chile is focused entirely on the skiing and the culture rather than the coordination. Each volcano on the itinerary has been selected and refined over years of guiding in the region, and the sequence of objectives is designed to build confidence and technical fluency across increasingly demanding terrain.
Southern Chile rewards travelers who know where to go and when. The Araucania Region's volcanoes, towns, and landscapes are best experienced with guides who have spent meaningful time there, and RMI's familiarity with this corner of the Andes is reflected in every aspect of how this expedition is run.
To learn more about RMI's history and approach to international programs, visit our About page.
The expedition begins in Temuco, Chile, moving through the Araucania and Lakes Districts over thirteen days, climbing and skiing five volcanoes across dramatically different landscapes before finishing in the coastal town of Puerto Varas. Lodge and hut accommodation throughout keeps the focus on the mountains and the culture rather than camp logistics.
Temuco, Chile
10,253' / 3,125 m
13 Days
5
6
6–7 Hours
Depart U.S.A. Travel to Temuco, Chile (ZCO) typically takes 18-27 hours from the U.S. depending on your departure city, available connections, and flight times.
Upon arrival in Temuco, we are picked up at the airport and transferred to our hotel. After checking into the rooms there is time to relax before meeting the guides and team for introductions and a brief orientation. Overnight in Temuco.
After an early breakfast we travel to the Corralco Ski Center, a ski area situated at the base of Volcán Lonquimay. We spend the afternoon riding the lifts and skiing some of the backcountry terrain accessed by the ski area — a great opportunity to get our ski legs back under us. At the end of the day we drive down to the town of Malalcahuello where we settle into our accommodations for the next few nights. Overnight in Malalcahuello. (B)
After breakfast we drive to the base of Volcán Lonquimay and begin our ascent. In our daypacks we carry our standard ski mountaineering kit including ice axe, boot crampons, and ski crampons — prepared for all types of snow conditions. With soft snow conditions, it is possible to skin to the top of Lonquimay. With the more typical spring melt-freeze conditions we’ll encounter, crampons and an ice axe become the best tools for the job, especially the last 1,000’ where the angle ramps up to sustained “black diamond” terrain. Climbing Lonquimay typically takes 5-6 hours but the 4,500’ ski descent from the summit goes much faster. Overnight in Malalcahuello. (B)
Today we explore the backcountry at Arenales and enjoy the wide slopes and araucaria forest. Termas (hot springs) at Rio Blanco may also be on the agenda. We will return to Malalcahuello for our final night. (B)
With an alpine start we drive to the Nevado de Vilcun Hut, located at the base of Volcán Llaima. From here we begin our ascent. Looking up at this mountain from Nevado de Vilcun the summit looks close but it’s an optical illusion. It doesn’t seem to get any closer until we’re finally there — 6 - 7 hours of climbing later. The crater rim of Llaima is covered in ultra-sharp lava rock, formed during its 2009 eruption. The ski descent off the top of Llaima is quite steep, requiring careful, controlled turns. After few thousand vertical feet of skiing, we spend the night at Nevado de Vilcun Hut. (B,D)
We leave Llaima behind and drive to the resort town of Pucon. This busy little Chilean ski town sits on the shores of the beautiful Lake Villarrica, with Volcán Villarrica towering impressively above the town. The afternoon is free for participants to explore Pucon, including another opportunity for relaxing in the hot springs. Overnight in Pucon. (B)
Like other volcanoes, our climb on Villarrica starts from the base of a small ski area — this one called Pillan (" spirit" ). This being our third volcano of the trip, by this point we’re starting to get in the groove of these summit days. We skin half to two-thirds of the way to the summit before transitioning to boot crampons. The 5,000 vertical foot climb to the summit of Villarrica takes about 5 hours. In good conditions, the descent back to the parking lot only takes 25 minutes! After a short rest, we drive to the Mocho-Choshuenco Volcano — enjoying the 3.5 hour drive past lakes, rivers, and majestic views of Volcán Villarrica. Overnight at the cozy Mocho-Choshuenco Hut. (B, D)
Mocho is part of the Mocho-Choshuenco volcanic complex. It is a volcanic cone located at the center of a large caldera (2.5 miles in diameter!) formed by the collapse of an ancient volcano. After an early breakfast we begin our climb, ascending volcanic slopes and crossing a glacier on our approximately 6 hour ascent to the summit. The views from the summit are stunning and the perfect fuel for the turns on the descent! Overnight at the Mocho-Choshuenco Hut (B, D)
It’s about a 4 - 5 hour drive south to Volcán Osorno as we leave Chile's Araucania District (land of Monkey Puzzle trees) and enter Chile’s beautiful Lakes District. We arrive at the Teski Hut at the base of the mountain, overlooking the deep blue waters of Lake Llanquihue. Overnight at Teski Hut. (B, D)
Similar in character to Villarrica and Lonquimay, Osorno features a 5,000’ ascent and we’re able to skin for a good portion of this elevation gain. Getting to the summit usually involves using your ice axe and crampons to climb the rime ice. Depending on snow conditions, we may need to leave our skis behind for the last stretch. Sometimes the route is covered iwth fresh snow, allowing us to ski from the summit. We high five on top, enjoying 360° views of the lakes surrounding the mountain including Llanquihue and Todos los Santos. This is our final big ski run of the trip. We celebrate our last evening in the beautiful village of Puerto Varas. (B)
From our accommodations in Puerto Varas, it’s about a 30-minute drive to El Tepual International Airport (PMC) in Puerto Montt, where we bid farewell and catch our outbound flights. (B)
Arrive home.
Key: B, L, D = Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included.
You should arrive in excellent physical condition and prepared for ascents and descents of up to 5,000 vertical feet per day on volcano terrain, carrying a pack throughout.
Advanced downhill skiing or riding ability is required, along with previous ski touring experience and comfort skiing a variety of off-piste snow conditions.
This program reaches summit elevations between 8,700 and 10,253 feet, and climbers should be prepared to perform at altitude while managing the physical demands of ski mountaineering terrain.
The Chile Ski Mountaineering expedition covers five volcanoes in thirteen days, and the skiing is the primary challenge. Participants should arrive confident on black diamond terrain in ski areas and comfortable managing varied off-piste conditions, from spring melt-freeze crust to fresh snow, as conditions on the volcanoes can vary significantly from one objective to the next. The physical demands are real: summit days involve up to 5,000 vertical feet of ascent and descent carrying a 15 to 20 pound pack.
Training should emphasize sustained aerobic output, uphill skinning endurance, and the ability to ski demanding terrain at the end of a long day on the mountain. The closer you get to your program date, the more your training should reflect the specific demands of the expedition: consecutive days of climbing and skiing with a pack, on varied and sometimes technical terrain. Arriving fit, well-rested, and confident in your skiing will directly shape the quality of your experience on every volcano.
Climbers completing the Chile Ski Mountaineering expedition gain experience with ski mountaineering technique, volcano ascents, and multi-peak expedition travel across the Chilean Andes.
Recommended climbing experiences include:
Skills Covered:
Application of ski mountaineering techniques on a full summit ascent and long glaciated descent.
Skills Covered:
A two-day introduction to backcountry ski and splitboard touring fundamentals.
Skills Covered:
Crevasse rescue systems adapted for ski and snowboard travel, including anchor construction, hauling systems, and self-rescue.
Your climbing resumé should include:
Advanced downhill skiing or riding ability, comfortable on black diamond terrain
Previous ski touring or splitboarding experience*
Comfortable skiing varied off-piste and ungroomed snow conditions*
Ability to ascend and descend 5,000 vertical feet in a day carrying a 15 to 20 lb pack
Basic mountaineering skills including crampon use and ice axe technique
Items marked with an Asterix (*) are considered mandatory prerequisites for this program.
Mountaineering places sustained demands on your body and your ability to stay composed under effort. Even very fit people find that moving uphill with weight, for long hours, in variable weather is a different kind of challenge than most everyday training.
Preparation matters. Fitness directly affects how well you move, how much you learn, how the team functions, and how enjoyable the experience is overall.
Start early. Begin training well in advance of your program with the goal of arriving rested, resilient, and confident in your capacity for sustained effort.
Train intentionally. Emphasize aerobic endurance, uphill movement, and strength that supports long days on your feet. Core stability, balance, and mobility all play an important role in efficiency and injury prevention.
Train specifically. The closer you get to your program date, the more your training should resemble the demands of mountaineering: hiking uphill with weight, moving steadily for hours, and recovering well enough to do it again the next day.
Across RMI programs, strong preparation typically means being comfortable with long days of continuous movement, carrying a pack appropriate to the objective, and maintaining focus and decision-making when tired. Technical skills are taught or reviewed as appropriate to each program, but fitness is something you bring with you.
Nothing contributes more to a successful and rewarding experience than arriving well prepared. Plan to be in excellent physical condition and ready for a demanding day in the mountains.
Our guides have decades of experience training for alpine objectives, and we've done our best to put together relevant resources to help you with your expedition preparation.
Develop your aerobic base for endurance, strength, and performance in alpine environments with RMI’s expert guidance. Level up your training today.
Fitness & Training
Fueling Long-Duration Climbs with Enhanced Fat Metabolism
Fitness & Training
Strengthen your mountaineering training with a community of like-minded climbers who motivate and share the journey. Join us and explore.
Rainier
A Comprehensive Guide to Crafting Your Own Progressive, Goal-Oriented Program
Fitness & Training
Mountaineering is both an individual challenge and a team endeavor. Before any program begins, RMI works directly with prospective climbers to confirm that everyone joining a team is genuinely prepared for the demands ahead. Depending on the program, this may involve conversations with our office staff, a review of your climbing history, or feedback from guides and other climbers who know your abilities. The goal is straightforward: to ensure that every person on the rope belongs there. We ask that each climber hold themselves to the same standard:
The standards we set exist to protect everyone on the team. RMI holds all climbers accountable to them, and we take seriously our responsibility to build teams of people who are ready to be in the mountains together. RMI reserves the right to remove a participant from a program or send them to a lower altitude if our guide staff determines, in their sole discretion, that the participant is not physically, technically, or psychologically prepared or capable of participating, or for any other reason that may compromise the safety, health, or well-being of the participant or the group. In such cases, no refunds or credits will be issued, and the participant will be financially responsible for any additional costs associated with an early departure, including evacuation, transportation, lodging, and meals.
The Chile Ski Mountaineering expedition covers five volcanoes across thirteen days in varied Andean terrain, and the gear list reflects decades of RMI guiding experience on ski mountaineering objectives in the Southern Hemisphere. Every item has been selected to support a full day of climbing and skiing in conditions that can shift quickly from spring melt-freeze crust to fresh snow, and from warm lower slopes to cold and exposed summit ridges. Every experienced ski mountaineer refines their kit over time, but this list represents what RMI expects participants to bring to Chile.
Not every item may be used on every objective, but all required equipment must be available throughout the expedition. Conditions vary meaningfully from one volcano to the next, and having the right gear in place on each summit day directly affects both your experience and the security of the team.
Each RMI program includes a required personal equipment list built around the specific terrain, conditions, and objectives of the climb. Every item serves a purpose and supports safety, efficiency, and comfort in the mountains.
Guide Picks™ are examples that meet our performance standards and illustrate the type of gear we recommend. Each year, our partners at Whittaker Mountaineering survey our staff of 70+ guides to get a consensus on the best gear for the job. You do not need to purchase the exact item shown, but any alternative must offer comparable function and durability.
All listed items are required for the gear check. Final adjustments may be recommended by your guide based on conditions and team needs once the expedition begins.
Most of the required equipment is available for rent or purchase from our affiliate Whittaker Mountaineering. RMI climbers receive a 10% discount on new clothing and equipment items ordered from Whittaker Mountaineering.
We recommend traveling with a ski bag large enough to accommodate skis, poles, and extra gear that might not fit in your duffel.
Bring as needed. Make sure these are TSA-compliant.
We recommend a bag rated between 20° and 0° F. Allow ample room for movement. We recommend down over synthetic for its light weight, warmth, and packability. If you know you sleep cold, consider a 0° F bag.
10- or 12-point adjustable steel crampons with anti-balling plates for general mountaineering and glacier travel. Automatic, semi-automatic, or strap-on attachment depending on boot compatibility. Ensure crampons are compatible with your specific boots before your program.
All skis and boards need to have brakes or retention straps. We strongly recommend having a tech binding on your skis. Not a 50/50 binding.
Adhesive or strap-on coverings that attach to the base of skis or a splitboard to provide traction during uphill travel. Essential for efficient ascents in ski mountaineering programs.
A crampon specific to your ski binding which is used for ascending firm slopes with skis on.
A UIAA (Union Internationale des Associations d’Alpinisme) or CE (European Committee for Standardization) certified climbing helmet or a ski mountaineering helmet rated from both rock fall and skiing falls. Standard ski helmets are not acceptable. They are not rated for rockfall and are too warm to be worn during ascents.
Glacier glasses are protective sunglasses that provide close to 100% frame coverage (wrap-around frames and side shields ensure no light can enter from the top, bottom, and sides of the glasses) and transmit less than 10% of visual light.
We recommend a minimum of five upper body layers, all of which can be used in conjunction with each other. Two of these should be insulating layers, one light, and one medium, that fit well together. Today there are many different layering systems to choose from, including fleece, softshell, down, and synthetic options.
A lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirt in synthetic or merino wool for sun protection and moisture management during active climbing.
One step up in warmth and bulk from a baselayer. A technical fleece makes an ideal light weight insulating layer.
An insulated jacket or softshell for warmth during low-output activity and extended rest breaks. Should fit over baselayers and midlayers, and under a shell.
An expedition-style down parka that extends below the waist with an insulated hood, designed to fit over all other layers. Worn primarily in camp, during rest breaks, and on summit day. Down fill recommended over synthetic.
We recommend a system of four layers, all of which can be used in conjunction with each other. Products which combine several layers into one garment, such as traditional ski pants, don’t work well as they don’t offer the versatility of a layering system.
Lightweight synthetic or merino wool baselayer bottoms for moisture management and temperature regulation during active climbing.
A lightweight, well ventilated soft-shell or hard-shell ski or climbing pant that fits over the cuff of your ski boots.
Whether used for Alpine Touring, Telemark, or Snowboard, your boots should be of a design that allows climbing crampons, and is sturdy enough for variable snow conditions. Please call our office to speak with a guide about ski and snowboard boot recommendations.
Great for traveling and wearing around town or camp. A pair of tennis shoes or light hikers works well.
Either wool or synthetic. Whatever sock combination you are accustomed to wearing during your training or previous adventures (whether single medium weight socks, a medium weight with a liner sock, two medium weight socks together, etc.), should work just fine for this climb.
We recommend you speak with your physician about which medications you should have for high-altitude climbing. These medications are only used in emergency situations, and if someone is showing symptoms of HAPE or HACE, our standard protocol is for immediate descent. We do not take any of these medications prophylactically, and please talk with your guide before taking medications.
We require each climber to have the following medications:
Broad spectrum antibiotics for respiratory and gastrointestinal problems like Azithromycin (250mg tablets).
Our guides carry comprehensive medical kits, so keep yours small and light. We recommend a selection of adhesive bandages, antibiotic ointment, Moleskin and blister care, medical tape and/or duct tape, basic pain reliever, and personal medications.
You are responsible for providing your own meals and snack food in town and while on your program. See the Food tab for suggestions and quantities.
Heavy-duty trash compacter bags for use as waterproof pack/stuff sack liners. You can also use a waterproof pack liner.
Books, magazines, or a journal for downtime at camp; a Kindle or similar e-reader is a practical alternative for longer expeditions where weight and bulk matter. Choose based on program length and personal preference.
Disposable or reusable ear plugs for sleeping in shared tent or hut accommodations.
Spare prescription glasses if you wear contact lenses/eyeglasses.
Many smartphones have excellent cameras. Action cameras, small point-and-shoots, and compact dSLRs are lightweight and work well at altitude.
A small power bank, enough to charge a phone or e-reader several times.
For charging personal electronics while traveling internationally.
Bring a small repair kit with parts specific to your ski or snowboard boots and bindings.
Voile style ski straps for you carrying your skis and poles, and longer straps for lashing foam pads and tents to the outside of your pack.
We recommend bringing a selection of clothing to wear while traveling, sightseeing and dining.
If Glacier Glasses are not required, regular sunglasses will suffice on this program.
Valid for six months beyond your return date.
The first two pages of your passport.
A printed or digital copy of your complete flight itinerary, including confirmation numbers and times, for reference during travel and check-in. Keep this easily accessible throughout your journey.
Purchase travel insurance.
Purchase airplane tickets.
Reserve rental equipment.
Be in the best shape of your life!
RMI provides the following equipment for your program: tents, stoves, fuel, climbing ropes, and blue bags (for solid waste disposal).
Every guide on your climb will carry rescue equipment and a first aid kit. Each climb has two-way radios and a cell phone for emergency contact.
On the Chile - Ski Mountaineering program you will need 7 mountain lunches. All of your mountain lunch items should weigh about 4 lb.
Breakfast and dinner meals on the mountain are included as indicated in our Trip Itinerary. With the exception of hotel breakfasts, most restaurant meals are on your own. You are responsible for your own bottled water and drinks.
Mountain lunches are eaten during short breaks throughout the day. We continually snack to keep our energy levels up while we climb - lunch begins just after breakfast and ends just before dinner! Avoid packing any items that require preparation or hot water.
The importance of having foods that are genuinely enjoyed cannot be overstated. Eating properly is the key to maintaining strength while in the mountains. In order to combat the loss of appetite at altitude we aim to have a variety of foods that stimulate the whole palate, from sweet to sour to salty.
Recommended mountain lunch items: dry salami, smoked salmon, jerky (turkey, beef, fish), small cans of tuna fish, individually wrapped cheeses such as Laughing Cow or Baby Bell, crackers, bagels, candy bars, hard candies (Jolly Ranchers, toffees, Life Savers), gummy bears, sour candies (Sweet Tarts), cookies, dried fruit, nuts, energy bars, GORP mixes, and drink mixes (Gatorade/Kool-Aid). All items should be commercially packaged.
Chile does not allow the following items through Customs: cheeses, fresh meats, dried meats, fresh fruits, and fresh vegetables. Other food items may pass inspection but that decision is at the discretion of the customs inspector. Items which are generally okay include jerky and dried fruits as long as they are in their original packaging.
We will have the opportunity to purchase additional food in Chile but we recommend you take what you need and only supplement with local food if necessary.
The breakfast menu includes items such as instant oatmeal, cold cereals (granola), breakfast bars (Kashi, Kudos), hot drinks (coffee, tea, cocoa, cider) and local fresh fruit.
Dinner at usually begins with soup and ends with dessert, followed by a round of hot drinks. Healthy one-pot meals, incorporating fresh local food whenever practical, are served as the main course. One typical main course dinner might be spaghetti with sausage and fresh vegetables. Another meal might be chicken fajitas with cheese, tortillas, onions, and peppers. There are limitations, but the menu is planned to offer good variety and ample portions.
This page covers the practical details you’ll want to review before your trip, including travel logistics, entry requirements, local considerations, and required policies. Taking time to understand these details ahead of departure helps ensure a smoother experience once you’re on the ground and focused on the climb.
Please confirm any current travel advisories / warnings as well as entry requirements with the U.S. Department of State.
Travel to Temuco, Chile (ZCO) typically takes 18 - 27 hours from the U.S. depending on your departure city, available connections, and flight times. Flights generally arrive in the afternoon on Day 2 of the itinerary.
Departing flights from Puerto Montt (PMC) may be booked for any time on Day 12 of the program.
A valid passport is required when traveling to Chile. Your passport must be valid for 6 months beyond the expected return date. U.S. passport holders may stay up to 90 days without a visa.
We suggest making a copy of the first two pages of your passport and keeping them in a separate bag as a backup. A copy should also be left with your emergency contact.
Santiago: For most flight itineraries, travelers pass through immigrations and customs at the Santiago airport. This requires passing through immigrations, collecting your bags, and passing through customs. Once you exit customs, take the elevator to the third floor and recheck your bags onto your domestic flight to Temuco.
Temuco: Temuco is a small airport. Upon collecting your bags, a private shuttle will take you to our hotel.
Pack your ski bag carefully to ensure your skis and bindings are well padded. Strap your skis and poles together and wrap your climbing skins around your bindings for extra protection. Fill any voids in your ski bag with clothing. We recommend using a TSA approved luggage lock to ensure the zippers stay closed.
Most airlines count skis as a normal checked bag however as baggage policies differ by airlines, be sure to check with your carrier. We recommend keeping your ski bag and duffel under 50 lbs each to avoid oversize charges.
A strategy that we recommend is to travel with your ski boots as a carry-on item. Your boots are arguably the most important piece of equipment, and in the event that your ski bag is delayed, you will have a workable option in the interim. Finding a pair of rental skis that work with your boots is generally easier than finding an entire ski setup.
The provided ground transportation in Chile as stated in the itinerary is via private vehicle.
For the most current information on inoculation requirements and recommendations, please refer to the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention.
Travelers may suffer from upset stomachs when in foreign countries. There are some basic rules, however, that can help keep you healthy.
Excellent care for minor illnesses and injuries is readily available. In the event of more serious illnesses or injuries, we recommend transport to any of the Level 1 care centers in Santiago.
Your travel insurance policy should include trip cancellation, trip interruption, travel delay, baggage loss or delay, medical expenses, and evacuation.
Navigating through the different options for travel insurance can be challenging. When purchasing Travel Insurance, here are a few items to consider:
In today’s changing travel environment, it’s important to protect your travel investment. Unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss or even a sudden sickness or injury could impact your travel plans. For your convenience, we offer Travelex Insurance protection plans to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected.
For more information on the available plans visit Travelex Insurance Services or contact Travelex Insurance (800) 228-9792 and reference location number 47-0370.
The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries and may be changed without notice. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex Insurance Services, Inc. CA Agency License #0D10209. Insurance coverages underwritten by individual member companies of Zurich in North America, including Zurich American Insurance Company (NAIC #16535, state of domicile: New York). RETWEB
Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance is travel insurance designed for adventurers, including the best evacuation and rescue services available.
Benefits are tailored for adventurers and include:
Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance is powered by Redpoint Resolutions, a medical and travel security risk company. Their team is comprised of special operations veterans, paramedics, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, former intelligence officers, insurance actuaries and global security experts with dozens of years of experience in theaters around the world. The Redpoint network covers the globe, making them uniquely equipped to provide elite rescue travel insurance – in every sense of the word. Whether it’s reimbursing you for a cancelled trip, paying your travel medical bills or evacuating you home in an emergency, Ripcord takes the worry out of your travel.
RMI has partnered with Erin Rountree to provide travel planning support. Erin is an independent agent with extensive experience booking travel for adventure programs worldwide and understands the specific needs of RMI expeditions.
Phone: (208) 788-2870
Email: [email protected]
It is your responsibility to ensure that your travel insurance policy provides appropriate coverage for your specific program and activities. Review policy details carefully before purchasing, and confirm coverage well in advance of your departure.
Chile is a country of immense beauty, stretching for 2,700 miles along the southwestern coast of South America. Chile's fascinating geography (a thin ribbon of territory that stretches from the northern Atacama Desert to the Torres del Paine at the southern tip) and geology (the country contains hundreds of volcanoes, more than fifty of which are active) combine to make it one of the interesting destinations on earth. "Chile," wrote Chilean Nobel Prize winner Pablo Neruda, "was invented by a poet."
The country's high-income economy has helped produce a stable and prosperous nation, leading Latin American nations in competitiveness, income per capita, globalization, economic freedom, and low percentage of corruption.
Chile is a multi-ethnic, multicultural country whose people, subsequently, identify their nationality by citizenship rather than ethnicity.
Santiago, the country's capital since colonial times, was founded in 1541. The city's downtown has 19th century neo-classical architecture and winding side-streets, but the growing city also sports a growing entertainment scene, a rising skyline, and sprawling suburban growth. For those with some extra time, Spanish language courses for travelers are readily available.
For current weather conditions, check windy.com.
The primary ski season for volcanoes in Chile is during the months of August through October. The month of September is roughly equivalent to April in the northern hemisphere, offering some of the best snow coverage and skiing quality of the season.
September is a transitional month and weather conditions tend to be spring-like, however there is still potential for snowfall and colder winter conditions.
The people of Chile are generally very warm and friendly to tourists. Although it is not expected that we dress formally, we should dress modestly. Casual and comfortable clothing is suggested along with comfortable shoes. Showing expensive cameras, watches, jewelry, etc. is considered unseemly and may attract unwanted attention.
A handshake and nod show respect when greeting someone. When entering a shop or home, politely use a greeting such as buenos dias (good day), buenas tardes (good afternoon), buenas noches (good night). Similarly, upon leaving, even if you've had only minimal contact, say caio (goodbye) or hasta luego (see you later).
Chileans are typically proud of their country and culture. They are well-educated and tend to be cosmopolitan and progressive. Because a majority of Chile's population originated from Europe, Russia, and the Middle East, travelers typically have little trouble fitting in.
Electricity in Chile is different than in the United States. Chile has standardized type C sockets and plugs. Type L plugs and power points are still commonly found in older buildings.
Both are used for 220-240 volt, 50 hertz appliances. U.S. appliances will require plug adaptors, converters or transformers. Please visit www.worldstandards.eu/electricity for more detailed information.
The current currency of Chile is the Peso. Check a financial newspaper or www.xe.com for the current exchange rate prior to departure.
We suggest bringing $600 total for personal spending money including restaurant meals, drinks, pocket money, and the Support Staff Tip Pool.
Cash machines are readily available in Temuco and Pucon, but become increasingly difficult to find outside of the main urban areas. Credit cards are accepted in most, but not all, areas.
Everyone has a preferred way to carry money. Some use money belts, others have hidden pockets. Whatever you do, be aware of pickpockets and thieves in any area which caters to tourists.
Everyone approaches tipping a little differently. Whether or not a person tips, and how much, is completely dependent upon the individual; here are some suggested tipping guidelines for your trip.
Local waiters, drivers, and other service personnel expect to be tipped. Ten to fifteen percent is standard. Some restaurants and hotels add a 10% service fee to bills in which case, no further tip is required.
Support Staff Tip Pool: We recommend that each climber contribute $100 to the Tip Pool. This is collected at the beginning of the trip and will cover group tips for all our support and mountain staff throughout the program.
Our guides work hard to ensure your well-being and success on the mountain. If you have a positive experience, gratuities are an excellent way to show your appreciation. Amounts are at your discretion and should be based on your level of enjoyment. Tips for excellent service normally average 10 – 15% of the cost of the program. If you would rather not bring the guide gratuity with you on the trip, you can send a check or call the RMI office to pay with a credit card upon your return.
Frederic Lena's Chile & Argentina, Handbook of Ski Mountaineering in the Andes Belu Press, 2007
The following policies are applicable for this expedition.
* Accommodations are based on double occupancy. A Single Supplement Fee will be charged to those occupying single accommodations by choice or circumstance. The single supplement is not available in huts, tents, or in all hotels.
Rainier Mountaineering, Inc. reserves the right to modify the land cost of a trip at any time before departure.
Deposit Payments: A non-refundable deposit payment of $900 per person secures your reservation.
Balance Payments: The balance payment is due 120 days before the start of your program.
*There is a 3% surcharge on all credit/debit card transactions.
The deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable.
We do not offer refunds. Please remember this before registering for this program. Due to the time-sensitive nature of this program, no exceptions will be made to the cancellation policy.
Please clearly understand that mountaineering is inherently hazardous. Managing risk is RMI’s number one priority. Our guides manage significant hazards inherent in mountaineering, but they cannot eliminate them. Objective hazards include rockfall, icefall, avalanches, slides or falls by individuals and rope teams on steeper slopes, weather-related problems including cold, heat, high winds, and other unnamed dangers that can occur while climbing.
You are choosing to engage in an activity in which guided and non-guided climbers have been injured or killed. While those accidents are indeed infrequent, they may occur at any time and be out of our control. We ask that participants acknowledge the risks and hazards of mountaineering and make their own choices about whether or not to engage in this activity.
Mountaineering is both an individual challenge and a team endeavor. Each Participant is required to share in the responsibility of the safety and success of the team. For this reason, we ask that each Participant:
RMI reserves the right to dismiss the Participant from a program or to send the Participant to a lower altitude at any time if the RMI Guide Staff determines, in its sole discretion, that the Participant is not physically, technically, or psychologically prepared for or capable of participating in the program or for any other reason that may compromise the safety, health or well-being of the Participant or the entire group. If this decision is made, the Participant will not receive any refunds or credits and will be financially responsible for any additional costs associated with an early departure, including but not limited to, evacuation, transportation, hotels, meals, etc.
Rainier Mountaineering, Inc. (RMI) does not tolerate harassment or mistreatment of our participants or employees. Inappropriate conduct under this policy may include conduct that creates a disrespectful, intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment for a participant or employee. Engaging in such conduct is a violation of this policy.
RMI may consider conduct to violate the policy even if it falls short of unlawful harassment under applicable law. When determining whether conduct violates this policy, we will consider whether a reasonable person could conclude that the conduct created an intimidating, hostile, degrading, or demeaning environment.
Violation of this policy may result in removal from a program, as well as refusal to provide services indefinitely. We place the utmost value on the safety of our participants and employees. Please report any incidents to RMI management.
All participants must be 18 years old at the time of registration.
RMI’s Photo Release outlines the terms and conditions for using your likeness in photographs, videos, or other digital media.
I hereby grant Rainier Mountaineering, Inc. (RMI) or its affiliates permission to use my likeness in a photograph, video, or other digital media (“photo”) in any and all of its publications, including web-based publications. By granting permission, you allow RMI to utilize these media for lawful purposes.
Here are the key points:
RMI cannot guarantee that you will reach the summit. Weather, route conditions, your own abilities, or the abilities of other climbers may create circumstances that make an ascent unsafe, and you or your entire group may have to turnaround without reaching the summit.
Failure to reach the summit due to a person’s own lack of fitness or to any of the events associated with mountaineering (such as weather, route conditions, avalanche hazard, team dynamics, etc.), are not Rainier Mountaineering, Inc.’s responsibility and will not result in a refund, credit, or reschedule.
RMI’s program schedule and itineraries are subject to change or adjustment based on a number of factors. These include, but are not limited to, route conditions, weather, group strength, terrain, or other environmental factors, and many other factors. RMI has complete discretion to change plans to accommodate any of these or other factors, including but not limited to, increases in program fees, changes to program schedule or itinerary, and changes to guides or staff, as necessary for the proper and safe conduct of the program. Once the program has started, the Lead Guide will decide on any changes to the itinerary, including ending the program early if the continuation of the program may compromise the safety, health, or well-being of the group.
We reserve the right to cancel any program due to inadequate signups, weather, route conditions, or for any other reason. In such a case, we will make every effort to reschedule the Participant on a different program date. If rescheduling is not possible, we will issue the Participant a refund for all program fees paid to RMI, less any non-refundable payments made on behalf of the Participant to secure any of the included land costs provided for this program, including but not limited to, hotel accommodations, transportation, transfers, tours, group equipment and food, permits, and local outfitter services, prior to the cancellation of the program. Additionally, RMI cannot be responsible for any non-refundable expenses the Participant incurred in preparation for the program (i.e., airline tickets, hotel reservations, rental cars, equipment purchases or rentals, etc.).
Once a program begins, there are no refunds or credits for weather-related cancellations or for a program that may end early due to weather, route conditions, or any other circumstances that may compromise the health, safety, or well-being of the group. Furthermore, if the Participant decides for any reason not to begin a program or discontinue a program at any time, no refunds or credits will be issued. The Participant will be responsible for all additional costs associated with an early departure, including but not limited to evacuation, transportation, hotel reservations, meals, etc.
Land Costs are provided as a package, and refunds or credits will not be issued for any unused meals, accommodations, group transportation, or other unused costs. Accommodations are based on double occupancy. A Single Supplement Fee will be charged to those Participants occupying single accommodations either by choice or circumstance. If you are willing to share a room, we will make every effort to pair you with another same-gender team member. We will match willing same-gender team members based on the order of registration date. If we are unable to match you with another same- gender team member, a single supplement fee will be charged. The availability of single accommodations is limited in most of the hotels where we stay, and single accommodations are not available while in the mountains.
The Participant understands and agrees that RMI assumes no responsibility or liability in connection with any travel and hospitality services provided to the Participant by other companies in connection with the program, including but not limited to, the services provided by airlines, hotels, rental cars, and transportation companies. In addition, RMI is not responsible for any act, error, omission, or any injury, loss, accident, delay, irregularity, or danger by a supplier of travel or hospitality services to the Participant in connection with the RMI program. The Participant will be responsible for all costs associated with any travel delays, missed connections, or missing baggage that requires additional arrangements (separate transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, etc.) to be made on your behalf for you or your baggage to rejoin the program.
The Chile Ski Mountaineering expedition covers five volcanoes in thirteen days across two of Chile's most scenic regions, and the questions that matter most center on the skiing, the logistics of moving between objectives, and what to expect from the terrain and culture along the way. The answers below address how the program operates, what the mountains actually demand, and how to make the most of your time in Southern Chile.
Advanced ability is required. Participants should be comfortable on black diamond terrain in ski areas and confident skiing a variety of off-piste and ungroomed snow conditions. The volcanoes present varied conditions from one objective to the next, including spring melt-freeze crust, hard pack, and fresh snow, sometimes on the same day.
Participants must bring their own touring setup including skis or splitboard, skins, ski crampons, ice axe, boot crampons, and avalanche safety equipment including beacon, probe, and shovel. A full mandatory gear list will be provided before departure.
Summit days involve ascents and descents of up to 5,000 vertical feet carrying a 15 to 20 pound pack.
The program runs during Chile's Southern Hemisphere spring, when spring melt-freeze conditions are typical on the upper mountain. Early morning starts take advantage of firmer snow, and guides assess conditions on each volcano before committing to a route. Fresh snowfall is possible throughout the season.
Lift-served skiing is part of the Corralco day at the base of Volcán Lonquimay. The summit days themselves begin from the ski-area base and are climbed under your own power, transitioning to touring and crampon travel on the upper mountain.
RMI guides hold formal avalanche certifications and assess conditions on every objective before the team moves. All participants are required to carry avalanche safety equipment including a beacon, probe, and shovel throughout the expedition.
The itinerary includes flexibility to adjust objectives based on conditions. Guides monitor weather daily and make all decisions about when and how to climb. If a summit is not achievable on the scheduled day, the team may explore alternative terrain in the area or adjust the itinerary accordingly.
The climbing is non-technical by mountaineering standards but does require crampon use and ice axe technique on the upper sections of most volcanoes where the angle increases and snow conditions become firmer. Participants should be comfortable with these skills before arriving.
The program begins in Temuco, Chile, served by La Araucanía Airport (ZCO). Travel from the US typically takes 18 to 27 hours depending on departure city and connections. The program finishes in Puerto Varas, with departure from El Tepual International Airport (PMC) in Puerto Montt, approximately 30 minutes away. Departing flights from Puerto Montt may be booked for any time on Day 12 of the program.
No. US citizens do not require a visa to enter Chile. A tourist card valid for 90 days is issued at the airport on arrival. A valid passport is required and must be valid for at least six months beyond your expected return date.
Yes. Travel insurance is required for this program. Your policy should include trip cancellation, trip interruption, travel delay, baggage loss or delay, medical expenses, and evacuation. Not all policies cover mountaineering or ski touring activities, so confirm that your activity and equipment are covered before purchasing. RMI recommends Travelex and Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance as options designed for adventure travelers.
The Chilean peso is the local currency. Cash machines are readily available in Temuco and Pucon but become increasingly difficult to find outside main urban areas. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants. We suggest budgeting approximately $600 total for personal spending including restaurant meals, drinks, and the Support Staff Tip Pool.
Pack your ski bag carefully with skis and poles strapped together and bindings well padded. Most airlines count skis as a normal checked bag, though policies vary by carrier. We recommend keeping both your ski bag and duffel under 50 lbs to avoid oversize charges. Consider carrying your ski boots as a carry-on item, as they are the most important piece of equipment and the hardest to replace if your bag is delayed.
Summit days begin early to take advantage of firmer morning snow conditions. The team skins or boot-packs to the summit over five to seven hours depending on the volcano, before transitioning to skis for the descent. Guides assess conditions throughout the ascent and make all decisions about route and timing based on snow stability and weather.
The program stays in a combination of Chilean lodges, huts, and hotels throughout the expedition. Evenings in towns like Malalcahuello, Pucon, and Puerto Varas offer genuine access to Southern Chilean culture, food, and hospitality.
Yes. The Araucania Region is known for its natural hot springs, and the itinerary includes opportunities to visit them, including at Rio Blanco near Malalcahuello and in Pucon.
Meals are provided at lodges and huts throughout the expedition. Southern Chile is known for its fresh produce, lamb, seafood, and locally produced wine, and the program takes full advantage of the region's food culture wherever possible.
Local waiters, drivers, and service personnel typically expect ten to fifteen percent. For group support and mountain staff, we recommend each participant contribute $100 to the Support Staff Tip Pool, collected at the beginning of the trip. Guide gratuities are at your discretion and typically average ten to fifteen percent of the program cost for excellent service.
Climbers rated RMI with an average of 5 stars across 0 ratings
Climber reviews of the Chile Ski Mountaineering expedition consistently highlight the variety and quality of the skiing, the warmth of Chilean hospitality, and the satisfaction of standing on five volcano summits in less than two weeks. Participants frequently note how well the program balances demanding days on the mountain with comfortable evenings in Chilean towns, and many describe the combination of ski mountaineering and cultural immersion as unlike anything else in RMI's program catalog.
October 29, 2019
Chile - Ski Mountaineering
Multiple days of skiing, but at the end of each day, we had excellent meals and comfortable lodging. The group size was just right, four clients and one excellent guide. It was a great group!
Richard Q
October 29, 2019
Multiple days of skiing, but at the end of each day, we had excellent meals and comfortable lodging. The group size was just right, four clients and one excellent guide. It was a great group!
What needs improvement?
I had a great trip. There really is nothing different I would ask.
October 11, 2018
Chile - Ski Mountaineering
Chile was a marvelous surprise. The scenery is stunning, the people are friendly and accommodating and the food is simply delicious. More people should take this trip, not only those who are new to ski mountaineering, but veterans as well, who probably have no idea how challenging, entertaining and rewarding this trip can be.
Arthur M
October 11, 2018
Chile was a marvelous surprise. The scenery is stunning, the people are friendly and accommodating and the food is simply delicious. More people should take this trip, not only those who are new to ski mountaineering, but veterans as well, who probably have no idea how challenging, entertaining and rewarding this trip can be.
Additional Comments
The list needs a bit of tweaking. I think there are a couple of items that could be eliminated.
What did you enjoy most?
Chile was a marvelous surprise. The scenery is stunning, the people are friendly and accommodating and the food is simply delicious. More people should take this trip, not only those who are new to ski mountaineering, but veterans as well, who probably have no idea how challenging, entertaining and rewarding this trip can be.
What needs improvement?
Nothing comes to mind.
Sorry! there are no available dates that meet your current criteria
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What did you enjoy most?
Multiple days of skiing, but at the end of each day, we had excellent meals and comfortable lodging. The group size was just right, four clients and one excellent guide. It was a great group!