When is a trip confirmed?

Non-8,000m: A trip is confirmed 70 days before the start of an expedition. This doesn’t happen often, but if a trip is not meeting the enrollment minimums at the 70-day mark, Alpenglow will need to cancel the expedition or team members will need to pay a greenlight rate. 8,000m Peaks: A trip is confirmed 100 days before the start of an expedition. This doesn’t happen often, but if a trip is not meeting the enrollment minimums at the 100-day mark, Alpenglow will need to cancel the expedition or team members will need to pay a greenlight rate. If Alpenglow cancels due to low enrollment, a full credit or refund can be issued.

When Should I Buy My Flights?

We would recommend buying flights 60 days prior to the start of the expedition, when the trip is confirmed. We would also recommend opting into the option to change flights with a minimum fee, in case we summit early and you have the chance to get you home a few days earlier than expected.

Do I need to purchase Rescue Insurance and Travel Insurance in Chile?

We require Rescue Insurance on all of our international expeditions. Rescue insurance will help cover costs in the event that you need to be rescued off the mountain (Ex: Helicopter/medical evacuation). Travel Insurance (which we strongly recommend) can cover issues that would cause you to cancel your trip in advance, like illness. We recommend Ripcord who does offer a Comprehensive Travel Protection option to your required Rescue (Evacuation) Insurance.

What sort of experience is required to join a ski mountaineering trip?

This trip is suitable for advanced backcountry skiers and splitboarders only. You must be very comfortable on steep terrain, and have a minimum of 15 days of touring experience in a variety of conditions.

Can you accommodate for vegetarian or vegan diets?

Yes. Please reach out to our team with the details of your dietary restrictions and we’ll set you up for success.

Do you have an expedition doctor?

Expedition doctor, Monica Piris, has been on fourteen 8,000-meter peak expeditions. While Dr. Piris does not travel with our team on all expeditions, she is in 24 communication with our expedition leaders. Dr. Piris also works with each member on his or her pre-acclimatization program.

While no outdoor adventure can be completely free of risk without losing the essence of the activity, hiring a professional guide is a fantastic way to manage and mitigate this risk. Activities like skiing and climbing have what we call “inherent risk”, which can be defined as a risk that cannot be completely mitigated by a professional. That is part of playing in the mountains. We encourage you to reach out to the office if you would like to discuss this in more detail.

What is your international expedition cancellation policy?

Please click here to review our international cancellation policy.

Where do you get your weather forecasts?

We use a Swiss weather forecasting company. Having a quality forecast for our 8,000m peaks maximizes both our safety and our summit success.

What gear do I need to bring?

In general, your gear for the day will be very similar to a day of skiing in the resort, but here are a few key pieces that are unique to the backcountry and crucial for the day – A hat and pair of sunglasses (These come in handy on the hike up) Sunscreen Water and snacks (Our guides recommend between 1-2L of water depending on your intake) Lighter, more breathable layer options than a typical resort layering system. An additional light pair of gloves is preferred for uphill travel Ski poles with powder baskets, or a pair of collapsable poles for splitboarding. (We have these available at no extra charge if you need them) A backpack, and any avalanche rescue gear you may own. (Our guides recommend packs around 20-30L) **Please give us a call if you have any questions about what to bring, or if your gear will be appropriate for the day.

Would you consider doing a custom expedition?

We always consider customs. Custom trips make up more than 50% of our groups. Please reach out to learn more!

What do I need to do to confirm my reservation?

When an expedition is more than 90 days out, we require a 20% deposit to guarantee your reservation. Within 90 days we require full payment.

What all is included and excluded?

THE COST OF YOUR TRIP INCLUDES YOUR LAND COSTS (EXCLUDING IN-TOWN MEALS). THIS INCLUDES: All lodging according to itinerary, including double occupancy lodging while in town and group lodging in mountain huts. Breakfasts in town, all meals while on the mountain Group camping and climbing equipment All park/climbing permits Scheduled in-country transportation Airport transfers Certified guides THE COST OF YOUR TRIP DOES NOT INCLUDE: Flights to/from the city where the expedition begins. Additional nights in hotel outside of the itinerary Airport taxes Visas In-town dinners Immunizations Tips for guides or local staff Travel, rescue, or any other type of insurance Hospitalization or evacuation costs Single supplement charges Excess baggage charges Alcohol Other personal expenses Antigen/PCR Covid test cost The costs of delays or changes to itinerary that are beyond the control of Alpenglow Expeditions or its agents are not included.

Do I need to purchase everything on the Equipment List?

Aside from the technical gear that we are often able to provide on Introductory Courses (harness, helmet, ice ax, crampons), we strongly recommend bringing everything on the Equipment List . These kits have been dialed and tested by our guides for over 20 years; while you may not end up using everything you bring, weather variability in the mountains demands that we’re ready to dress for any and all conditions!

Intermediate

Volcanoes of Chile Ski Expedition

Chile

9 Days

Backcountry ski and ride in the mountains of Chile – the perfect next step for experienced backcountry ski and splitboard enthusiasts. Chile is an incredible playground for a backcountry skier or rider, offering breathtaking snow-covered volcanoes that rise high above the Chilean forest.

Sept 5th, 2026 – Sept 13, 2026

Inquire

Volcanoes of Chile Ski Expedition Introduction

Volcanoes of Chile Ski Expedition Overview

Start ski mountaineering in Chile.

The wide, steep slopes of the Chilean volcanoes will give our teams over 5000’ of descent as they soak in the panoramic, postcard-worthy views. These slopes provide a blank canvas for our teams to carve out some of the best runs of their lives. Aside from skiing, Chile’s unique culture and landscape create opportunities for lifelong memories. Imagine volcano corn skiing, natural volcanic mineral hot springs, and farm-fresh Chilean food to finish the day. Chile provides the perfect location to apply your skillset to new places while being lead by our certified guides.

Perfect, Wide Open Slopes in Chile

Alpenglow’s certified ski guides are constantly on the search for new destinations for us to explore, and they have identified the volcanoes of southern Chile as a destination that provides everything we look for in a high-quality expedition. Beautiful snow-covered volcanoes rise out of the forest like sentinels guarding the heavens, and they beckon skiers to enjoy their flanks. On these slopes, we’ll find spring skiing conditions similar to what you’ll find in the High Sierra or any spring ski mountaineering objective. Incredible corn snow fills slopes between 30-45 degrees as we search for the best conditions day after day on wide-open slopes.

Ski Lonquimay Volcano

Our first objective is the Lonquimay Volcano. Dotted with a couple of ski resorts, we will use a lift bump before touring for a couple hours to explore the 30-degree slopes and get our legs under us. After about 10,000 feet of skiing, we can rest and hot spring away any sore muscles and prepare to ski Villarica.

Ski Llaima Volcano

The next day we wake up early and travel for an hour to the base of Llaima Volcano. This is the signature volcano of the region and for good reason. It stands to deliver us the longest day of touring at 5-6 hours, and we’re rewarded with the longest descent of the trip at over 5,000’ of bliss.

Now we need a rest day – we travel 4 hours to Pucón where we spend the day exploring the city and replenish calories with local cuisine. We again have the chance to soak in hot springs to relax our tired legs.

Ski Villarica Volcano

A beautiful 4,000’ climb will take us to the top of Villarica, where we’ll be greeted with the smell of sulfur, a sensory reminder of the incredible geothermal and geological forces responsible for these legendary volcanoes we ski and the warm water that aids our recovery. After our third descent, we will enjoy the town of Pucon’s unique nightlife and food culture before departing the next day.

Ski Osorno Volcano

An hour- long drive will bring us to the trailhead. Volcan Osorno is a highly-coveted descent due to its terrain quality and panoramic views. Its position in the region provides unparalleled views of Lago Llanquihue, Lago Todos Los Santos, and neighboring Volcan Calbuco.

We will ascend for about 4-5 hours until we reach our high point. Be sure to take a deep breath and enjoy it: the last 4,800’ of Chilean corn await you.

The trip wraps up in Puerto Montt, a beautiful city on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. You’ll catch your first flight home here as we say goodbye to an eye-opening and adventurous trip to the volcanoes of southern Chile.

The Alpenglow Difference

Ski Expedition with Certified Guides

Our Chilean ski tours are guided by one or more of Alpenglow’s IFMGA/AMGA certified lead guides. AMGA (American Mountain Guides Association) certification is the most prestigious in the world, attained only by the most experienced and dedicated guides. Our lead guides have traveled and climbed extensively throughout South America and possess intimate knowledge of the Andes Mountains. A thorough understanding of Andean culture combined with a passion for teaching others guarantees an experience you won’t soon forget.

Quality Logistics

We provide the highest quality logistics possible on this expedition, from the airport pick ups and transport to the hotels and lodging. Comfort is a key to success, especially when you’re skiing +/- 4,000′ (1,200m) in a day.

Preparation

FITNESS

Skiers and riders must be in excellent physical shape to join this expedition. Participants must be prepared to climb 4,000 – 5,000 vertical feet in a day. Big days, but lots of fun! Regular, challenging exercise for many months in advance of departure is the only way to gain the necessary level of fitness that is needed on big peaks. Those joining our teams should have at least a general understanding of what it takes to train for an expedition like this. We recommend a structured training program at a gym or with a personal trainer. Please contact us for more information on physical training.

TECHNICAL

skiers must be competent on a variety of terrain and snow conditions. Skiers must be able to link turns in steep terrain (up to 45 degrees) while maintaining control. Skiers must also have basic snow climbing experience including use of ice axe and crampons.

EXPERIENCE

Skiers must have at least 15 days of backcountry ski touring experience in a variety of conditions and steep terrain.

Ski mountaineer on the summit of a 6,000m peak in Chile with Alpenglow Expeditions' professionally guided ski mountaineering trip to Chile.

Itinerary & Map

Volcanoes of Chile Ski Expedition Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival into Chile
Welcome to Temuco, Chile, the largest city in Chile’s “Lake District”. After you arrive in the early afternoon and meet the team, you’ll board our vehicle and travel through lush farmland and dense forest in search of snow-capped volcanoes. The 2-hr drive brings you to our new home, the Canon del Blanco Lodge. From here, you’re perfectly situated for the next two days of skiing and riding.
Day 2: Climb and Ski Lonquimay Volcano
After breakfast at Canon del Blanco Lodge, you’ll load up for a 1hr drive to the base of Volcan Lonquimay. Your first tour of the trip brings you high above the town of Malalcahuello and the ski resorts located at the base of Lonquimay. In perfect conditions, you’ll be able to skin to the top, but everyone will have an ice axe, ski crampons and boot crampons in case we encounter firm snow. A quick ride up the lift will shorten our tour. At the top, you’ll be standing above more than 4,000’ of perfect spring snow that leads back to the car.
Day 3: Climb and Ski Llaima Volcano
Across the valley from Lonquimay you’ll see Volcan Llaima, your second objective of the trip. After an early rise and breakfast, you’ll hop in the car for another 1hr drive to the base of the volcano. While your legs will feel heavy to start, this feeling will quickly dissipate as the sun begins to rise, and you find yourself climbing another perfect slope. Llaima is a bit steeper than Lonquimay, and it’s crater rim is covered in ultra- sharp lava rock formed during an eruption in 2009. After you descend more than 5,000’ back to the base, you’ll be racing for the hot springs at Canon del Blanco Lodge.
Day 4: Rest day in Pucón
With nearly 10,000’ under your belt, today’s leisurely pace will be welcomed. After you rise for a late breakfast at Canon del Blanco Lodge, the team will drive to Pucon, a small mountain town near the base of Volcan Villarica. Known for its outdoor activities, Pucon is home to many hot springs and blends lazy afternoons with a vibrant and social scene in the evening. An afternoon soak and dinner in town will prepare you for tomorrow’s tour on Volcan Villarica.
Day 5: Climb and Ski Villarica
One of the most active volcanoes in Chile, Villarica is the prize of Pucon. A 45 minute drive will bring you to the start of your climb. A bit steeper than the previous two, you’ll start your ascent on skins, but will switch to crampons as you near the top. The strong smell of sulfur will let you know you’ve made it, and you’ll quickly switch to skis and boards before your third perfect spring run of the trip. Back in Pucon, you’ll have the afternoon to explore before another night in town.
Day 6: Rest day and drive to Termas de Puyehue
After a leisurely breakfast in Pucon, you’ll continue to travel south through the Lake District to the town of Terma Puyehues. Located along the shores of Lago Llanquihue, it is is a little town with wide streets and grassy lawns. The last objective, Volcan Osorno, stands proudly just to the south.
Day 7: Optional Rest Day or Climb and Ski Casa Blanca or the ski resort
Today we will decide to continue our recovery as a rest day/weather day, go climb & ski Casa Blanca, or hit the Hot Springs!
Day 8: Climb and Ski Osorno Volcano
Your last tour of the trip is arguably the best. Right on the shore of Lake Llanquihue, Volcan Osorno is the prize. After an short drive to the base, and 4-5hr ascent, you’ll have earned every bit of glory you’re about to experience. This last descent back to the car marks the completion of your adventure, and it’s time to celebrate. You’ll head back to Terma Puyehue or a grand goodbye dinner.
Day 9: Drive to Puerto Montt and Depart
Depart from Puerto Montt.

Volcanoes of Chile Ski Expedition Trip Packet

Alpenglow’s Chile Guides

Our Chile Backcountry Ski Guides

Get to know some of the guides you might be skiing with in Chile.

Equipment

Volcanoes of Chile Ski Expedition Equipment List

All the gear you need for your backcountry ski expedition in Chile.

Download Equipment Link

Select a category

Hat
Bring your favorite baseball hat for shelter from the sun. No white under the brim – the reflection off of it from the sun is blinding.
Recommended: Black Diamond 5-Panel Synthetic Cap
Beanie
A comfortable, warm well-fitting hat that covers your ears. Make sure that one of your hats fits under a helmet.
Recommended: Black Diamond Levels Beanie
Neck Gaiter (Buff)
A multi-purpose neck gator that can also be worn under your hat. Make sure that it covers as much skin as possible and yet is still comfy.
Recommended: Alpenglow Buff
Balaclava
We recommend a tight-fitting balaclava that is worn under your hat. Make sure that it covers as much skin as possible, but is comfortable enough to wear for hours.
Recommended: Black Diamond Coefficient LT Balaclava
Sunglasses
Must have dark lenses. Minimal light should come in below, above, or around the sides of the lenses.“Wrap” style is best. Ventilation is important and a retainer strap is very useful (Chums or Croakies). A Category 4 lens is recommended.
Recommended: Julbo Shield
Goggles
These will be worn on stormy or windy days. Make sure you are getting a snug fit with lenses for bright sun. Ventilation and anti-fog features are desired.
Recommended: Vuarnet Everest Goggles
Ski Helmet
A ski specific helmet that is less than 10 years old.
Recommended: Scott Track Plus Helmet
Liner Gloves
These gloves keep the inside of your mitts or other gloves from accumulating sweat on the inside and turning inside out when you take them off, as well as provide additional insulation.
Recommended: Black Diamond Midweight Wool Liners
Lightweight Gloves
All-around gloves for mountaineering, backcountry skiing, and hiking. These gloves (and similar options) are warm, wind-resistant, durable and have a sure grip. You will rarely take these gloves off. They should be snug-fitting, and have some sort of reinforced palm.
Recommended: Black Diamond Alpine Softshell Gloves
Midweight Gloves
These gloves should be full GORE-TEX®, and insulated. These will be the workhorse glove for any expedition.
Recommend: Black Diamond Tour Gloves
or Black Diamond Terminator Gloves
Heavyweight Ski Gloves
Heavyweight, waterproof gloves for those cold, stormy days.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Impulse Gloves
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Women’s Impulse Gloves
Liner Socks
A super-thin wicking sock that repels moisture. Liner socks help to reduce the likelihood of blisters. The socks should be thin wool, nylon, or Capilene®. NO COTTON
Recommended: Ice Breaker Merino Liner
Hiking Socks
Your everyday sock, good for day hikes, trekking, and in-town. It’s good to bring several pairs of these socks. NO COTTON.
Recommended: Darn Tough Hiking Sock
Ski Socks
Ski socks will keep your feet warm and dry during long tours in the mountains.
Recommended: Smartwool
Hiking Shoes
These light to mid-weight shoes are for everyday use. The ideal shoe is comfortable to wear for multiple days and scrambles decently on rock. A Gore-tex lined shoe stays drier when hiking in rain or snow.
Recommended: La Sportiva Bushido
Lightweight Top
Ultra-light base layer that effectively wicks moisture away from your body and is breathable. Quick-dry is important as well. One light-colored shirt is recommended for extremely sunny days.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Lightwire Short Sleeve
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Lightwire Short Sleeve
Sun Hoodie
Lightweight, long-sleeve sun hoody that is great for protecting from the sun.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Alpenglow Hoody
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Alpenglow Hoody
Lightweight Baselayer Top
A long sleeve base layer that is fitted, lightweight and quick drying. Make sure it is long enough to tuck in.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Men’s Lightwire Long Sleeve
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Women’s Lightwire Long Sleeve
Mid-Weight Warm Layer Top
This mid-layer will be worn over your base layer most of the trip.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Men’s Coefficient Hoody
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Women’s Coefficient Hoody
Hard Shell Jacket
A lightweight, waterproof and breathable jacket WITH A HOOD that can withstand extreme weather conditions. Make sure you have pit-zips and if you are using an old jacket, re-waterproof it.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Recon LT Stretch Shell
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Women’s Recon LT Stretch Shell
Soft Shell Jacket
More breathable than Gore-tex, these soft shell jackets block wind and light precipitation and are great as an outer layer and warm layer under your parka.
Men’s Recommended: Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody
Women’s Recommended: Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody
Mid-Weight Puffy Jacket
A simple, lightweight puffy jacket. This item is good for layering systems and staying warm. We recommend 800-fill down that is packable and resists inclement weather.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Deploy Down 1.0 Hoody
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Deploy Down 1.0 Hoody
Mid-Weight Synthetic Jacket
An active insulation layer that breathes and moves with you while keeping you warm.
Recommend: Black Diamond Vision Hybrid Hoody
Quick Dry Shorts
Throw these on under other layers for when the sun begins to beat, or you want to stretch / relax in Basecamp. Lightweight, durable and comfortable. NO COTTON.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Sierra Shorts
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Sierra Shorts
Lightweight Baselayer Bottoms
Fitted and quick drying. This piece will be a base-layer that will get you through a wide range of temperatures. This can be 3/4 length bottoms if preferred.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Solution 150 Merino Baselayer
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Coefficient LT Baselayer
Hiking Pant
Lightweight, durable, quick-drying hiking pant that will be your day-to-day pant during the expedition
Men’s Recommended: Black Diamond Alpine Light Pants
Women’s Recommended: Black Diamond Women’s Alpine Light Pants
Soft-Shell Ski Touring Pant
You will spend most of your days in these pants. Choose Schoeller® or a soft-shell equivalent. Breathable + water-resistant.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Men’s Dawn Patrol Pants
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Women’s Dawn Patrol Pants
Lightweight Hard Shell Ski Pant
A lightweight, yet durable ski pant to provide more protection from harsher elements.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Men’s Recon LT Stretch Pants
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Women’s Recon Stretch Pants
Skis w/ Touring Bindings
A lightweight touring ski with touring bindings. Our guides suggest something between 108mm-115mm underfoot. Keep in mind that extremely lightweight boards are great on the uphill, but can prove challenging in variable conditions.
Recommended Skis: Black Diamond Helio Carbon 108 Skis
Recommended Bindings: Black Diamond ATK Crest 10 Bindings
Ski/Splitboard Poles
Adjustable ski poles with powder baskets. Note: Splitboarders, be sure to use 3 section poles so they collapse small enough to reasonably attach to your pack while in riding mode.
Recommended: Black Diamond Expedition or Expedition 3 Poles
Ski Touring Boots
These need to be a touring specific boot with walk mode, and a rubber sole. Typically sized a bit larger than your regular alpine boot, and light weight is a huge plus. Be sure to try many pairs on to find the right fit; it can make or break a day in the mountains!
Recommended: Fischer Transalp Pro or Transalp Tour WS
Ski Crampons
While ski crampons are strongly recommended on our domestic backcountry ski programs, they are required on all of our International Ski Expeditions. These are typically used on early spring days when the snow is often icy on the way up before the conditions transition. Many bindings accept a compatible crampon made by the manufacturer.
Recommended: Black Diamond ATK Ski Crampons
Splitboard
A splitboard that you are comfortable riding in a variety of conditions. Preferably a powder-centric board with good float (longer nose, setback stance).
Recommended: Jones Hovercraft, Stratos, or Mind Expander Splitboard
Snowboard Boots
The same boots you wear at the resort are great for your splitboard. Be sure they’re comfortable, backcountry touring means long days in your boots!
Recommended Men’s: Burton Tourist Snowboard Boots
Recommended Women’s: Burton Snowboard Boots
Splitboard Crampons
While splitboard crampons are strongly recommended on our domestic backcountry splitboard programs, they are required on all of our International Splitboard Expeditions. These are typically used on early spring days when the snow is often icy on the way up before the conditions transition. Many bindings accept a compatible crampon made by the manufacturer.
Recommended: Spark R&D Ibex ST Splitboard Crampons
Shovel
A lightweight metal avalanche rescue shovel. Extendable handle is recommended.
Recommended: Black Diamond Evac 7
Probe
A strong, lightweight avalanche probe, 260-300cm.
Recommended: Black Diamond QuickDraw Pro Probe 280
Avalanche Transceiver
A digital transceiver that is simple to use or that you are extremely comfortable using.
Recommended: Black Diamond Recon Avalanche X Beacon
Climbing Skins
Many options are available, and are often comparable. Most important is to ensure your skins are trimmed properly for the ski you will be touring with. Skins with a secure tail clip are preferred.
Recommended for Skis: Black Diamond Glidelite Mix STS Climbing Skins
Recommended for Splitboards: Black Diamond Glidelite Mix Splitboard Climbing Skins
General Mountaineering Axe
One non-technical climbing axe. The tool should be approx. 55cm- 65cm long and comfortable to hold. *Ice axes are also available to rent (for our introductory climbing courses) at no charge from Alpenglow expeditions on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Recommended: Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe
Mountaineering Harness
Must have belay loop, gear loops and adjustable leg loops so that you can layer up underneath it. Easy to pack, lightweight + comfortable. *Harnesses are also available to rent (for our introductory climbing courses) at no charge from Alpenglow expeditions on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Recommended: Black Diamond Couloir
Mountaineering Crampons
Steel crampons with anti-balling plates are required (so that snow does not build-up in the base of your foot). Make sure that crampons have a heel bail and that they fit snugly on your ski or snowboard boots. Crampons are available to rent (for our introductory climbing courses) at no charge from Alpenglow Expeditions on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Recommended: Black Diamond Sabretooth Crampons
Locking Carabiner (2)
Small, lightweight locking carabiners are best.
Recommended: Black Diamond LiteForge Screwgate
Non-locking Carabiner (2)
Small, lightweight small carabiners are best, wire-gates are fine.
Recommended: Black Diamond LiteWire Carabiner
Duffel Bags
2 Duffel Bags – At least one bag should be extremely durable, waterproof, and big – between 90L and 120L. You should feel comfortable leaving it in a puddle for several hours. Remember dry clothes are hot commodities in the mountains! Large enough to fit everything you own, plus what you anticipate buying. Two duffel bags are necessary to fit all your equipment for travel (we don’t recommend checking your climbing pack separately, best is to put all gear and climbing pack into your duffel).
Once in country, you can consolidate your gear into one duffel and your climbing pack. You can leave the second duffel with city clothes and other non-necessary items behind in a locked and secure location that your guide will arrange for you.
Note: For ski expeditions such as the Ecuador Ring of Fire, you can replace one of these duffel bags with a ski/splitboard bag.
Recommended: Black Diamond Stonehauler 120L
Day Pack
Mid-size pack for city days and trekking. Streamlined, neat and lightweight (10-20 liters).
Recommended: Black Diamond Bullet 16 Pack
Touring Backpack
Internal frame pack that is between 25 and 35 liters. Either purchase a matching pack cover, or use garbage bags as liners to protect from precipitation. Make sure the pack is fitted to YOUR body.
Recommended: Black Diamond Dawn Patrol 32L
Headlamps
Please bring two L.E.D. Headlamps. One will be intended as a lightweight backup. L.E.D. headlamps are required. Make sure they have 3+ bulbs. Bring extra batteries. We highly recommend a tilting lamp.
Recommended: Black Diamond Storm 450
Backup Headlamp Recommended: Black Diamond Deploy 325
Hydration System
Should carry 70-100 ounces. Must be durable and have a reliable closure system. Recommended: MSR Dromlite 2L with Hydration Tube
Two 1L Nalgene Bottles
Two 1 Liter Wide Mouth Nalgene bottles.
Recommended: Nalgene 1 L wide mouth
Coffee
While Alpenglow provides hot drink options every morning, it can be nice to have your own on hand any time you need a boost. With hot water always readily available, having instant coffee packets can give you the energy you need after a long day in the mountains!
Recommended: Alpine Start Original Blend Instant Coffee
Miscellaneous Ski Items
-Passport (with visa, if necessary)
-2 luggage locks (TSA compliant)
-Optional heated socks
-Optional Airbag (must be a battery fan system for Japan trips. No compressed air.)
-Repair Kit for skis/splitboards (extra screws, tail clip, pole basket, duct tape, etc)
-Ski Straps
-Non-cotton underwear
-Stuffsacks: assorted sizes, for organizing your clothes and gear
-Sunscreen Required: SPF 30 (or higher)
-Lip balm with SPF 15 (or higher)
-Personal first-aid kit (Band-aids, Ibuprofen, Cough Drops, Moleskin/Blister Care Kit, Pepto-bismol, Imodium, Personal Medications, Saline nasal spray)
-Toiletries
-2-3 lbs. of Snack Food (a variety whole food, bars, gels, electrolyte powder, and snacks you are used to)
-Hand Warmers
-Glop Stopper Skin Wax (for Chile trips)
-Optional Tote Bag & Coin Purse (for Japan trips)
-Face Mask
-Hand Sanitizer
-Mountain Face Mask (optional)
-Headphones
-Universal Travel Adapter (to charge your devices)
-Powerbank (6-10K mAh good for 2-3 phone charges, weighing under 8oz)

FAQ’s

Volcanoes of Chile Ski Expedition Questions

Below are some answers to commonly asked questions about backcountry skiing in Chile

: Non-8,000m: A trip is confirmed 70 days before the start of an expedition. This doesn’t happen often, but if a trip is not meeting the enrollment minimums at the 70-day mark, Alpenglow will need to cancel the expedition or team members will need to pay a greenlight rate.
8,000m Peaks: A trip is confirmed 100 days before the start of an expedition. This doesn’t happen often, but if a trip is not meeting the enrollment minimums at the 100-day mark, Alpenglow will need to cancel the expedition or team members will need to pay a greenlight rate.
If Alpenglow cancels due to low enrollment, a full credit or refund can be issued.
: We would recommend buying flights 60 days prior to the start of the expedition, when the trip is confirmed. We would also recommend opting into the option to change flights with a minimum fee, in case we summit early and you have the chance to get you home a few days earlier than expected.
: We require Rescue Insurance on all of our international expeditions. Rescue insurance will help cover costs in the event that you need to be rescued off the mountain (Ex: Helicopter/medical evacuation). Travel Insurance (which we strongly recommend) can cover issues that would cause you to cancel your trip in advance, like illness. We recommend Ripcord who does offer a Comprehensive Travel Protection option to your required Rescue (Evacuation) Insurance.
: This trip is suitable for advanced backcountry skiers and splitboarders only. You must be very comfortable on steep terrain, and have a minimum of 15 days of touring experience in a variety of conditions.
: Yes. Please reach out to our team with the details of your dietary restrictions and we’ll set you up for success.
: Expedition doctor, Monica Piris, has been on fourteen 8,000-meter peak expeditions. While Dr. Piris does not travel with our team on all expeditions, she is in 24 communication with our expedition leaders. Dr. Piris also works with each member on his or her pre-acclimatization program.
: While no outdoor adventure can be completely free of risk without losing the essence of the activity, hiring a professional guide is a fantastic way to manage and mitigate this risk. Activities like skiing and climbing have what we call “inherent risk”, which can be defined as a risk that cannot be completely mitigated by a professional. That is part of playing in the mountains. We encourage you to reach out to the office if you would like to discuss this in more detail.
: Please click here to review our international cancellation policy.
: We use a Swiss weather forecasting company. Having a quality forecast for our 8,000m peaks maximizes both our safety and our summit success.
: In general, your gear for the day will be very similar to a day of skiing in the resort, but here are a few key pieces that are unique to the backcountry and crucial for the day –
A hat and pair of sunglasses (These come in handy on the hike up)
Sunscreen
Water and snacks (Our guides recommend between 1-2L of water depending on your intake)
Lighter, more breathable layer options than a typical resort layering system. An additional light pair of gloves is preferred for uphill travel
Ski poles with powder baskets, or a pair of collapsable poles for splitboarding. (We have these available at no extra charge if you need them)
A backpack, and any avalanche rescue gear you may own. (Our guides recommend packs around 20-30L)
**Please give us a call if you have any questions about what to bring, or if your gear will be appropriate for the day.
: We always consider customs. Custom trips make up more than 50% of our groups. Please reach out to learn more!
: When an expedition is more than 90 days out, we require a 20% deposit to guarantee your reservation. Within 90 days we require full payment.
: THE COST OF YOUR TRIP INCLUDES YOUR LAND COSTS (EXCLUDING IN-TOWN MEALS). THIS INCLUDES:
All lodging according to itinerary, including double occupancy lodging while in town and group lodging in mountain huts.
Breakfasts in town, all meals while on the mountain
Group camping and climbing equipment
All park/climbing permits
Scheduled in-country transportation
Airport transfers
Certified guides
THE COST OF YOUR TRIP DOES NOT INCLUDE:
Flights to/from the city where the expedition begins.
Additional nights in hotel outside of the itinerary
Airport taxes
Visas
In-town dinners
Immunizations
Tips for guides or local staff
Travel, rescue, or any other type of insurance
Hospitalization or evacuation costs
Single supplement charges
Excess baggage charges
Alcohol
Other personal expenses
Antigen/PCR Covid test cost
The costs of delays or changes to itinerary that are beyond the control of Alpenglow Expeditions or its agents are not included.
: Aside from the technical gear that we are often able to provide on Introductory Courses (harness, helmet, ice ax, crampons), we strongly recommend bringing everything on the Equipment List. These kits have been dialed and tested by our guides for over 20 years; while you may not end up using everything you bring, weather variability in the mountains demands that we’re ready to dress for any and all conditions!

Volcanoes of Chile Ski Expedition Trip Packet

Testimonials

The guides were incredible.
Syd and Isaac were empathetic, knowledgeable, and highly skilled as guides. They have a great synergy together and it’s clear they put a lot of work into getting ready for us as a group.
Bill B.
Simply amazing people running an outstanding company
“Simply amazing people running an outstanding company. From the accommodations to the food, the knowledge and experience of the guides, and the impeccable planning, every aspect of the Ring of Fire tour was top-notch. The trip had a great flow despite all the changes due to the weather. I can’t speak highly enough about Alpenglow Expeditions!”
Stephen S.
Alpenglow is the best
“I’ve been climbing with Alpenglow for over ten years. After my first expedition, I knew I’d found the best team. I feel like I’m a member of the Alpenglow family, and have come to know and love many of their guides, office staff, and programs. Alpenglow is truly the best!”
Evan M

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