Industry News
Winter is charging full speed ahead in Chile. Ski Portillo has received over 224 inches of snowfall this season, smashing its 200-inch average seasonal snowfall. Originally set to open June 20, the ski area has since moved the opening day to June 29 as a winter storm moved in on the Andes this week.
Ski Portillo released a statement on Monday, June 24, on Facebook regarding the updated opening day.
“It continues to snow at Portillo. Snow totals from this storm have reached 503 cms / 198 inches, and the forecast continues to call for more snow through the week. Due to these weather conditions, we are forced to postpone the opening date to Saturday, June 29 when we hope the storm clears. We appreciate you understanding during this unprecedented situation.
Guests with reservations before the opening date will be contacted by our reservations team to rebook or receive a refund.
If you have any questions, our communicartion channels are open and available. We invite you to also stay informed through our website and social media channels or email reservations@skiportillo.com or 1-800-829-5325.
These storms have created an incredible conditions for the sesaon and we look forward to welcoming guests soon.”
Ski Portillo is about a two-hour drive from Chile’s capital, Santiago. Due to intense winter storms, the roads from Santiago and Mendoza are both closed. The quick start to the season could result in one of the longest seasons in Ski Portillo’s history. Typically shutting down operations in September, but if heavy snowfall continues, it is possible for its season to stretch into October.
Ski Portillo is not alone; many of South America’s ski areas have been receiving above-season average snowfall this year. Valle Nevado Ski Area also in Chile opened early this month and has received 87% of its annual snowfall. Needless to say, this is an incredible season to take that southern hemisphere ski trip.
Ski Portillo Stats:
- 1,235 skiable acres
- Highest point at 10,860 feet
- 11 lifts
- Longest run of 1.5 miles
- 25% expert terrain
