Chile Volcanoes Backcountry Skiing Adventure

Summit and ski Chile’s iconic volcanoes! Explore massive alpine terrain and steep lines on Villarrica, Quetrupillán, Casablanca, Puyehue, and Osorno. An unforgettable ski mountaineering adventure through Patagonia’s southern Andes.

Price: $3,595/person.

Overview
Itinerary
Prerequisites
Inclusions
Gear

Overview:

Iconic volcanoes, massive descents, and the rich culture of Patagonia — this 7-day ski adventure is designed for backcountry skiers and riders ready to tackle big alpine terrain in Chile’s southern Andes.

Start with ski touring and summit descents on Villarrica and Quetrupillán, two of Chile’s most famous volcanoes. Then head south for exploration in Puyehue National Park, skiing untouched alpine bowls and finishing with big terrain on Casablanca and Osorno. Along the way, enjoy comfortable mountain lodges, authentic Chilean hospitality, and sweeping views across Patagonia’s wild southern ranges.

This adventure blends technical progression, big-mountain objectives, and cultural immersion — offering a true backcountry expedition experience in one of South America’s most stunning ski destinations.

Highlights:

  • Summit and ski classic Chilean volcanoes: Villarrica, Quetrupillán, Casablanca, Puyehue, and Osorno
  • Skill development in ski touring, ski mountaineering techniques, and steep skiing
  • Small group ratios: 4:1 skier-to-guide — 1 guide for up to 4 guests, 2 guides for up to 8 guests
  • Comfortable mountain lodging and access to local Chilean cuisine and culture
  • Incredible views across Patagonia’s southern Andes and remote volcanic landscapes
  • Led by IFMGA/AMGA-certified guides focused on safety, fun, and progression

Perfect for experienced backcountry skiers and riders looking to combine summit objectives, big descents, and cultural adventure in one unforgettable trip through Chile’s wild southern Andes.

💳 Final payment will be made by ACH, Zelle or Credit Card w/ service fee, and is due 180 days before trip starts.

Day 1 – Arrival & Welcome Dinner

  • Arrive in Puerto Montt by mid-afternoon.
  • Meet your guides and group for a welcome dinner and trip briefing.
  • Transfer to Puerto Varas for overnight lodging.

Day 2 – Ski Touring at Volcán Villarrica

  • Kick off the trip with ski touring on Volcán Villarrica.
  • Intro or review of ski mountaineering skills: ski crampons, boot crampons, ice axe techniques, and self-arrest.
  • Evening in Pucón.

Day 3 – Ski Touring at Volcán Quetrupillán

  • Step deeper into the Andes with a ski mountaineering objective on Volcán Quetrupillán.
  • Apply and refine ski mountaineering techniques in more technical terrain, conditions permitting.
  • Team dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 4 – Travel & Rest Day

  • Morning rest and optional activities: town exploration, hiking, or a mellow ski tour.
  • Drive to the Puyehue area (~2–3 hours).
  • Evening in Puyehue.

Day 5 – Ski Touring at Puyehue

  • Full day of ski touring in Puyehue National Park.
  • Focus on quality descents and alpine terrain depending on conditions.
  • Evening in Puyehue.

Day 6 – Ski Touring at Volcán Casablanca

  • Full day of ski touring on Volcán Casablanca, known for its wide open slopes and stunning views.
  • Drive to Puerto Varas after skiing for group dinner and lodging.

Day 7 – Ski Touring at Volcán Osorno & Return to Puerto Montt

  • Final ski day exploring the classic backcountry terrain of Volcán Osorno.
  • Tour above the lift system to access aesthetic alpine lines with views of Lago Llanquihue and the Andes.
  • Return to Puerto Montt by evening for flights or onward travel.

🌦️ Note: This itinerary is subject to change based on weather, snow conditions, and group goals. We aim to stay flexible throughout the trip to maximize safety, snow quality, and overall experience. Our guides will adapt the schedule as needed to ensure the best possible skiing and touring conditions each day.

Here are the skills and fitness you'll need for your course:

  • Expert Resort Riding Skills - Including steep and consequential off-piste terrain in challenging snow conditions.

  • Basic Ski Mountaineering Skills - Including ice axe, crampon, and basic rope skills are helpful, but not required. This program is designed to build those skills

  • Strong Fitness - Able to spend a long, active day outside, moving uphill at 1,000’ per hour for durations of 1-1.5 hours between breaks. Participants should be able to hike 8-10 miles, climbing 2,500 - 3,500 vertical feet throughout the course of the day. People with strong fitness typically have a strenuous workout 3-4 days a week.

  • Completed AIARE 1 and AIARE Avalanche Rescue - Course completion certificates from AIARE are required

What's Included:

  • IFMGA or AMGA Certified/Trained Guide
  • In-country transportation
  • Meals (alcohol not included)
  • 6 nights lodging in double occupancy rooms
  • Group safety gear (snow science tools and a first aid kit carried by your guide)
  • Wag bags for human waste disposal to comply with Leave No Trace principles
Not Included:
  • Flights to and from Puerto Montt
  • Personal snacks and alcoholic drinks
  • Travel insurance (required)
  • Ski or splitboard equipment
  • Avalanche safety gear (beacon, shovel, probe, pack)
  • Guide gratuities

Optional Extras:

  • AIARE 2 Avalanche Course: Build advanced avalanche skills while touring in terrain with limited forecasting. Improve your ability to assess snowpack and manage avy risk — ideal for skiers looking to lead their group and make confident decisions.

For this trip, you'll need a full backcountry ski or splitboard setup, avalanche safety gear, and appropriate layering for variable alpine conditions in the Andes.

Required gear includes:

  • Touring skis or splitboard with skins and ski/splitboard crampons
  • Ice axe and boot crampons for steep or firm conditions
  • Avalanche safety gear: beacon, shovel, probe
  • Backpack (30–40L) with helmet carry and avalanche gear storage
  • Helmet and goggles
  • Technical outerwear: waterproof shell, insulated layers, gloves

We recommend reviewing the full gear guide before your trip. You can download it here:

📄 Full Gear Guide – Ski Mountaineering (PDF)


Know Before you go

SKILL LEVELAdvanced
ELEVATION6,000'-10,000'
LocationSouthern Chile - Patagonia

Price/Person $495.00
Private Programs
Duration: 7 Days
View Full Itinerary

PRIVATE PROGRAMS

  • Custom Scheduling: Choose your dates and plan around your availability.
  • Tailored Experiences: Itineraries and objectives are adjusted to suit your goals, experience, and fitness.
  • Cost-Effective for Most Large Groups: Private programs are typically more cost-effective for groups of 3 or more.
  • Flexibility Comes at a Price: For groups of 1-2, private programs are generally more expensive.
  • AIARE Courses: AIARE course pricing is based on a group of 6. Running these as a private program with fewer than 6 participants will increase the per-person cost.

SCHEDULED PROGRAMS

  • Fixed Dates & Costs: Scheduled programs have set dates, itineraries, objectives, and pricing.
  • Great for Solo or Small Groups: Ideal for individuals or small groups looking to share costs with others.
  • Affordable for 1-2 People: Scheduled programs are typically less expensive for groups of 1-2.
  • Less Flexibility: Dates fill quickly, and group programs require adapting to the skill level and pace of all participants
  • Group Atmosphere: Meet others with similar interests and make some new backcountry buddies!

Note: Any scheduled program can also be run as a private program with customized dates and rates.

Both options offer exceptional guiding and experiences. Choose what works best for you!

Contact us
Full Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival & Welcome Dinner

  • Arrive in Puerto Montt by mid-afternoon.
  • Meet your guides and group for a welcome dinner and trip briefing.
  • Transfer to Puerto Varas for overnight lodging.

Day 2 – Ski Touring at Volcán Villarrica

  • Kick off the trip with ski touring on Volcán Villarrica.
  • Intro or review of ski mountaineering skills: ski crampons, boot crampons, ice axe techniques, and self-arrest.
  • Evening in Pucón.

Day 3 – Ski Touring at Volcán Quetrupillán

  • Step deeper into the Andes with a ski mountaineering objective on Volcán Quetrupillán.
  • Apply and refine ski mountaineering techniques in more technical terrain, conditions permitting.
  • Team dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 4 – Travel & Rest Day

  • Morning rest and optional activities: town exploration, hiking, or a mellow ski tour.
  • Drive to the Puyehue area (~2–3 hours).
  • Evening in Puyehue.

Day 5 – Ski Touring at Puyehue

  • Full day of ski touring in Puyehue National Park.
  • Focus on quality descents and alpine terrain depending on conditions.
  • Evening in Puyehue.

Day 6 – Ski Touring at Volcán Casablanca

  • Full day of ski touring on Volcán Casablanca, known for its wide open slopes and stunning views.
  • Drive to Puerto Varas after skiing for group dinner and lodging.

Day 7 – Ski Touring at Volcán Osorno & Return to Puerto Montt

  • Final ski day exploring the classic backcountry terrain of Volcán Osorno.
  • Tour above the lift system to access aesthetic alpine lines with views of Lago Llanquihue and the Andes.
  • Return to Puerto Montt by evening for flights or onward travel.

🌦️ Note: This itinerary is subject to change based on weather, snow conditions, and group goals. We aim to stay flexible throughout the trip to maximize safety, snow quality, and overall experience. Our guides will adapt the schedule as needed to ensure the best possible skiing and touring conditions each day.

Overview:

Iconic volcanoes, massive descents, and the rich culture of Patagonia — this 7-day ski adventure is designed for backcountry skiers and riders ready to tackle big alpine terrain in Chile’s southern Andes.

Start with ski touring and summit descents on Villarrica and Quetrupillán, two of Chile’s most famous volcanoes. Then head south for exploration in Puyehue National Park, skiing untouched alpine bowls and finishing with big terrain on Casablanca and Osorno. Along the way, enjoy comfortable mountain lodges, authentic Chilean hospitality, and sweeping views across Patagonia’s wild southern ranges.

This adventure blends technical progression, big-mountain objectives, and cultural immersion — offering a true backcountry expedition experience in one of South America’s most stunning ski destinations.

Highlights:

  • Summit and ski classic Chilean volcanoes: Villarrica, Quetrupillán, Casablanca, Puyehue, and Osorno
  • Skill development in ski touring, ski mountaineering techniques, and steep skiing
  • Small group ratios: 4:1 skier-to-guide — 1 guide for up to 4 guests, 2 guides for up to 8 guests
  • Comfortable mountain lodging and access to local Chilean cuisine and culture
  • Incredible views across Patagonia’s southern Andes and remote volcanic landscapes
  • Led by IFMGA/AMGA-certified guides focused on safety, fun, and progression

Perfect for experienced backcountry skiers and riders looking to combine summit objectives, big descents, and cultural adventure in one unforgettable trip through Chile’s wild southern Andes.

💳 Final payment will be made by ACH, Zelle or Credit Card w/ service fee, and is due 180 days before trip starts.

Day 1 – Arrival & Welcome Dinner

  • Arrive in Puerto Montt by mid-afternoon.
  • Meet your guides and group for a welcome dinner and trip briefing.
  • Transfer to Puerto Varas for overnight lodging.

Day 2 – Ski Touring at Volcán Villarrica

  • Kick off the trip with ski touring on Volcán Villarrica.
  • Intro or review of ski mountaineering skills: ski crampons, boot crampons, ice axe techniques, and self-arrest.
  • Evening in Pucón.

Day 3 – Ski Touring at Volcán Quetrupillán

  • Step deeper into the Andes with a ski mountaineering objective on Volcán Quetrupillán.
  • Apply and refine ski mountaineering techniques in more technical terrain, conditions permitting.
  • Team dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 4 – Travel & Rest Day

  • Morning rest and optional activities: town exploration, hiking, or a mellow ski tour.
  • Drive to the Puyehue area (~2–3 hours).
  • Evening in Puyehue.

Day 5 – Ski Touring at Puyehue

  • Full day of ski touring in Puyehue National Park.
  • Focus on quality descents and alpine terrain depending on conditions.
  • Evening in Puyehue.

Day 6 – Ski Touring at Volcán Casablanca

  • Full day of ski touring on Volcán Casablanca, known for its wide open slopes and stunning views.
  • Drive to Puerto Varas after skiing for group dinner and lodging.

Day 7 – Ski Touring at Volcán Osorno & Return to Puerto Montt

  • Final ski day exploring the classic backcountry terrain of Volcán Osorno.
  • Tour above the lift system to access aesthetic alpine lines with views of Lago Llanquihue and the Andes.
  • Return to Puerto Montt by evening for flights or onward travel.

🌦️ Note: This itinerary is subject to change based on weather, snow conditions, and group goals. We aim to stay flexible throughout the trip to maximize safety, snow quality, and overall experience. Our guides will adapt the schedule as needed to ensure the best possible skiing and touring conditions each day.

Here are the skills and fitness you'll need for your course:

  • Expert Resort Riding Skills - Including steep and consequential off-piste terrain in challenging snow conditions.

  • Basic Ski Mountaineering Skills - Including ice axe, crampon, and basic rope skills are helpful, but not required. This program is designed to build those skills

  • Strong Fitness - Able to spend a long, active day outside, moving uphill at 1,000’ per hour for durations of 1-1.5 hours between breaks. Participants should be able to hike 8-10 miles, climbing 2,500 - 3,500 vertical feet throughout the course of the day. People with strong fitness typically have a strenuous workout 3-4 days a week.

  • Completed AIARE 1 and AIARE Avalanche Rescue - Course completion certificates from AIARE are required

What's Included:

  • IFMGA or AMGA Certified/Trained Guide
  • In-country transportation
  • Meals (alcohol not included)
  • 6 nights lodging in double occupancy rooms
  • Group safety gear (snow science tools and a first aid kit carried by your guide)
  • Wag bags for human waste disposal to comply with Leave No Trace principles
Not Included:
  • Flights to and from Puerto Montt
  • Personal snacks and alcoholic drinks
  • Travel insurance (required)
  • Ski or splitboard equipment
  • Avalanche safety gear (beacon, shovel, probe, pack)
  • Guide gratuities

Optional Extras:

  • AIARE 2 Avalanche Course: Build advanced avalanche skills while touring in terrain with limited forecasting. Improve your ability to assess snowpack and manage avy risk — ideal for skiers looking to lead their group and make confident decisions.

For this trip, you'll need a full backcountry ski or splitboard setup, avalanche safety gear, and appropriate layering for variable alpine conditions in the Andes.

Required gear includes:

  • Touring skis or splitboard with skins and ski/splitboard crampons
  • Ice axe and boot crampons for steep or firm conditions
  • Avalanche safety gear: beacon, shovel, probe
  • Backpack (30–40L) with helmet carry and avalanche gear storage
  • Helmet and goggles
  • Technical outerwear: waterproof shell, insulated layers, gloves

We recommend reviewing the full gear guide before your trip. You can download it here:

📄 Full Gear Guide – Ski Mountaineering (PDF)

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Epic Reviews From Adventurers

12 reviews
  • Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    Ready for a trip to pillow town?

    Ok, this was my 2nd hut trip with Blackbird and wow was it amazing. I mean, at 50 if I had done this 25 years ago I am pretty sure my life would have gone in a very different direction.

    First and foremost, Zeb Blaise (owner and lead guide), is an absolute rockstar. He ensured that everyone made it to the lodge no matter how hard the weather and airlines tried to prevent it. He was constantly working to make sure this was an amazing experience.

    While visibility was difficult all week I still think we scored big time. With 5-10cm of fresh every day and a mix of guides and practicum's with local knowledge we were never longing for more. With the ability to self select we were able to choose from skiing bell to bell or a more mellow day but always had fun.

    I could go on about the food being fantastic and the hut's sauna for days but there is only so much room to type.

    Oh yeah, about the pillows... This is probably this best pillow terrain I've ever seen, in person, a magazine or a video part. I mean Mike Lindell would be jealous of this place. A week later and I'm still dreaming about pillow lines!

    The only real question is whether I will return to Snowfall or check out a different hut next winter...

    Jeremy R.
    Verified Buyer
  • Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    Blackbird Guides - Snowfall Lodge

    In short, a once in a lifetime experience. The perfect balance between comfort (a lodge that is off the grid but has everything you need, including sauna and amazing food) and outdoor adventure (disconnected, epic snow and terrain, unreal views, the list goes on). To top it off, Blackbird guides helps to make the experience as good as it gets. They are professionals at coordinating and communicating plans, as well as true backcountry mountain guides - ensuring a safe experience, while providing education and guaranteeing epic powder turns. I have used Blackbird since they started and will continue to do so. They are at the top of their game. Don't miss this trip, or frankly, any trip Blackbird puts together. If you have the opportunity, GO!

    Greg F.
    Verified Buyer
  • Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    Incredible hut trip

    Magnificent terrain to explore each day and a beautiful hut to return to each night. Couldn’t have loved this week more!

    Jennifer L.
    Verified Buyer
  • Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    Another Epic Trip to BC

    Blackbird trips are something special. Amazing terrain, super knowledgeable and fun guides, great guests, and spectacular food. Snowfall had it all, from high alpine & glaciers to super fun tree and pillow skiing. Looking forward to coming back.

    Henning F.
    Verified Buyer

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