Arpa Catskiing
Overview
As Chile’s only fully snowcat-serviced ski operation, Ski Arpa offers an unparalleled, raw adventure exclusively for strong intermediate and advanced skiers. Operating entirely in the pristine backcountry, it is the ultimate destination to log massive vertical feet of untouched snow while taking in breathtaking, panoramic views of Mt. Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Western Hemisphere.
Base of Operations
Because Ski Arpa is a remote backcountry operation, there is no on-mountain lodging. Instead, guests stay down in the nearby valleys, blending world-class skiing with local culture:
• Inca Hotel (Los Andes): The primary hub for multi-day itineraries. Located about 1.5 hours from the mountain , it offers comfortable double rooms and daily breakfast before your transfer to the snow.
• Termas de Jahuel Hotel: Available as an upgraded lodging option. This provides a more premium experience, perfect for those looking to relax and recover after a heavy day of catskiing.
• Inca Hotel (Los Andes): The primary hub for multi-day itineraries. Located about 1.5 hours from the mountain , it offers comfortable double rooms and daily breakfast before your transfer to the snow.
• Termas de Jahuel Hotel: Available as an upgraded lodging option. This provides a more premium experience, perfect for those looking to relax and recover after a heavy day of catskiing.
Terrain & Amenities
• The Terrain:
Ski Arpa boasts 4,000 acres (2,000 hectares) of expansive, 100% backcountry terrain located entirely above the tree line. Serviced by two Pisten Bully snowcats , the mountain features steep headwalls, technical chutes, and massive wide-open runs like the Valle La Honda bowl. With a summit elevation of 3,740m (12,500 ft) and a maximum vertical descent of 1,050m (3,445 ft), a typical day yields over 13,000 vertical feet of virgin powder riding.
• Amenities: Instead of a bustling commercial village, Ski Arpa offers a pure, unfiltered mountain experience. The base facility consists of the cozy Refugio Avalancha mountain shelter, providing restrooms, coffee, snacks, and beverages for after your runs. High-quality powder ski rentals are available on-site , and crucial avalanche safety gear—including beacons and airbag-equipped backpacks—is provided and required for all guests.
• Amenities: Instead of a bustling commercial village, Ski Arpa offers a pure, unfiltered mountain experience. The base facility consists of the cozy Refugio Avalancha mountain shelter, providing restrooms, coffee, snacks, and beverages for after your runs. High-quality powder ski rentals are available on-site , and crucial avalanche safety gear—including beacons and airbag-equipped backpacks—is provided and required for all guests.
How to arrive
Located 108km (75 miles) northeast of Santiago. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes by land from the city. Inquire with us about arranging seamless private transfers.
