Amanecer en el Volcán Osorno, caminando por la nieve en su ladera Norte. Una vista espectacular al Cerro la Picada, Volcán Puntiagudo y Volcán Tronador.
 Trekking Paso Desolación, Parque Vicente Perez Rosales
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Osorno Ski Center

4.7
·9k reviews·, Chile

Ski down an iconic volcano with stunning views of lakes and mountains. A must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter mornings

Best chance for snow

CrowdMedium
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Amanecer en el Volcán Osorno, caminando por la nieve en su ladera Norte. Una vista espectacular al Cerro la Picada, Volcán Puntiagudo y Volcán Tronador.
 Trekking Paso Desolación, Parque Vicente Perez Rosales

Osorno Ski Center

Best Time

Winter mornings

Best chance for snow

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ski down an iconic volcano with stunning views of lakes and mountains. A must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

4.7
(9k reviews)

"The view from the top is phenomenal and seeing the glacier was really cool."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Snow Conditions First

Snowfall can be unpredictable. Verify conditions before you go to avoid disappointment! :snowflake:

Budget for Lift Tickets

Lift tickets are an investment, especially for the summit. Plan your budget accordingly. :moneybag:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Volcanic Slopes

Volcanic Slopes

Osorno Ski Center

Ski or snowboard down the iconic Osorno Volcano, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding lakes and mountains.

Glacier Summit Views

Glacier Summit Views

Osorno Ski Center Summit

Ascend to the glacier for breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Andes and the Llanquihue Lake region.

Red Crater Hike

Red Crater Hike

Osorno Ski Center Trails

Embark on a hike to the Red Crater for stunning, awe-inspiring scenery along the way.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Snow

While Osorno Ski Center offers stunning views year-round, snow conditions for skiing are crucial. Early August visits might be hit-or-miss due to climate change impacting snowfall. Check recent snow reports before booking your trip to ensure a snowy experience.

Lift Tickets & Views

Cable lift tickets can be pricey, especially for the top stops. Consider if the extra cost for the glacier view is worth it for your once-in-a-lifetime visit. Even the lower stops offer phenomenal, breathtaking views.

Best Times

When
Winter mornings
Why
Best chance for snow
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Clearer views, warmer
Crowd
High
When
Sunset (winter)
Why
Spectacular light
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Se dice que antes de que existiesen los lagos que acoge el volcán Osorno y Calbuco, había un un valle donde vivían varias tribus huilliches. En ese pueblo vivía la joven Licarayén, hija del cacique, quien se enamora de toqui Quitralpi, sin embargo, un pillán (espíritu residente de un volcán), siente una enorme envidia por el amor que sentía esta pareja, por lo que comienza a darle al pueblo pestes...
@chileansouth.cl
66.7K likes • 928.4K views

Check Snow Conditions First

Snowfall can be unpredictable. Verify conditions before you go to avoid disappointment! :snowflake:

Budget for Lift Tickets

Lift tickets are an investment, especially for the summit. Plan your budget accordingly. :moneybag:

Al final si terminas viviendo en el sur 🫀 #surdechile #turismo #patagonia #puertovaras #frutillar #paisajes #naturaleza #fotografia #influencer #explorar #chiloe #puertomontt #osorno #travel
@datossurenos
62.9K likes • 1.4M views
📌Parte 1 🇨🇱- 🇦🇷 ¿Sabias que se puede cruzar desde Puerto Varas a Bariloche navegando? - Ruta se llama 📍Cruce Andino - En este video les presentaré el trayecto desde Puerto Varas al limite de Chile - Argentina. - trayecto: - Puerto Varas a Petrohue (bus) - Petrohue a Peulla (navegacion) - Peulla a limite Chile - Argentina.(bus) - Trayecto de Puerto Varas a Bariloche dura unas 12 hrs. - Dale Mg y s...
@mauricio_.vargas
42.4K likes • 800.4K views

Pack for Wind

The summit can be very windy. Bring warm layers and windproof gear. :cloud:

Consider the Hike

The hike to the Red Crater offers incredible views and is a great alternative to the lifts. :hiking_boot:

¿Es realmente Puerto Varas la mejor ciudad de Chile???👀 yo no lo sé, pero vine por unos días a comprobar🧐 por años reconocida como la n°1 por su alta calidad de vida, entorno natural y patrimonio cultural🌱✨Sus paisajes de postal se han llegado a comparar con Japón, por el Volcán Osorno y Monte Fuji🌋, o pueblitos de Alemania, por su arquitectura🏛️ aquí les dejo solo algunos clásicos imperdibles por...
@isicardemil
41.9K likes • 292K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Snow Conditions First

Snowfall can be unpredictable. Verify conditions before you go to avoid disappointment! :snowflake:

Budget for Lift Tickets

Lift tickets are an investment, especially for the summit. Plan your budget accordingly. :moneybag:

Pack for Wind

The summit can be very windy. Bring warm layers and windproof gear. :cloud:

Consider the Hike

The hike to the Red Crater offers incredible views and is a great alternative to the lifts. :hiking_boot:

Cafe Prices

Be aware that cafe prices at the resort can be high. :coffee:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Osorno Ski Center offers spectacular volcanic landscapes and breathtaking summit views, making it a must-visit for many. While the skiing conditions can be variable, the cable car rides and hikes provide incredible scenery. However, visitors should be prepared for high prices for lift tickets and food, and potentially slow service at the restaurant.

"Looked like a great place to ski with amazing views, but unfortunately not enough snow when I visited in early August 2025. Climate change is more than just a hashtag!!"

Adam Rogers

"Quite nice place to visit. You can drive up to the top by car (in summer). In the winter there is a ski resort. There is a beautiful (and very windy) view and you can even take a cable lift from there to get to the top of this volcanic mountain. Tickets for the sunset are a bit more expensive."

Helena Mládková

"The sky resort was not open when we went there, only the small cafe was open. 5,400 pesos for one cup of hot chocolate, and it tasted like those super cheap hot chocolate, horrible..."

JH Sun

What People Like

Phenomenal summit views
Iconic volcanic landscape
Breathtaking hiking trails

What People Dislike

Expensive lift tickets
Variable snow conditions
High food prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can drive to Osorno Ski Center from Puerto Varas, which takes approximately 1 hour. The route follows Route 225 towards Ensenada, then signs for the National Park Vicente Pérez Rosales. TikTok Some visitors opt for organized tours or taxis. Reddit

In the summer, you can drive up to a certain point on the volcano. During winter, access is primarily via the ski resort's facilities. Reddit

While direct public transport to the ski center might be limited, you can take buses to nearby towns like Ensenada and then arrange further transport or join a tour. TikTok

The drive offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape, including lakes and the volcano itself. Be prepared for winding roads as you ascend. TikTok

Yes, many tour operators in Puerto Varas and Puerto Montt offer day trips to Osorno Ski Center, often combined with other attractions like Petrohué Falls. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Lift tickets can be expensive, with prices varying for different stops. For example, tickets to the first stop might be around $17 USD, and to the second stop around $27 USD. Going all the way to the glacier is an additional cost. Reddit

It's advisable to check the official website or local tourism sites for online ticket purchasing options, especially during peak season. Some sources mention pasesparques.cl for park entries. TikTok

Yes, you can purchase tickets for different sections of the cable lift, allowing you to go to the first stop, second stop, or all the way to the glacier. Reddit

While the ski resort operates on the volcano, access to certain areas or activities might have separate fees. It's best to check the official resort information for the most current pricing. Reddit

Yes, tickets for sunset viewing at Osorno Ski Center are reportedly a bit more expensive than regular daytime tickets. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The views from the summit, especially from the glacier, are phenomenal and breathtaking. Even lower stops offer spectacular panoramas of the lakes and surrounding mountains. TikTokReddit

Yes, Osorno Ski Center operates as a ski resort during the winter months, offering slopes for skiing and snowboarding. Reddit

Besides skiing, you can take the cable lift for incredible views, hike to the Red Crater, or simply enjoy the stunning volcanic landscape. TikTokReddit

The cable lift is typically operational during the winter for skiers and snowboarders, and also in the summer for sightseeing. However, it's best to confirm operating hours. Reddit

The hike to the Red Crater is described as amazing, with some breathtaking views along the way. It's a popular activity for visitors. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Reviews suggest that the restaurant can have slow service, with half the menu potentially out of stock. Prices are also noted as being 'mountain prices,' which can be high. Reddit

There is a cafe at the resort, but some visitors found the hot chocolate to be of poor quality and overpriced. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, bringing your own snacks or a packed lunch is often a good strategy for saving money at tourist attractions. Reddit

Expect 'mountain prices,' which are generally higher than in town. For example, a cup of hot chocolate was reported to be 5,400 pesos. Reddit

Based on reviews, the restaurant experience might be disappointing due to slow service and limited menu availability. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The summit and glacier offer unparalleled panoramic views, perfect for landscape photography. The drive up also provides scenic photo opportunities. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Osorno Volcano's conical shape and its setting overlooking the lakes make it incredibly photogenic, often compared to Japan's Mount Fuji. TikTok

Sunset can offer dramatic lighting, but daytime offers clear views of the surrounding landscape. Early mornings might provide softer light and fewer crowds. Reddit

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and park regulations before flying a drone for aerial photography. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details on the volcano or distant mountains. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Osorno Ski Center can be a fun outing for families, especially during the summer months when the weather is more predictable. The cable car ride offers a unique experience for children, providing stunning views without strenuous activity. TikTok While skiing is a primary winter activity, families can also enjoy the scenic drives and shorter walks available. Be mindful of the cost of lift tickets if you plan to take children to higher elevations. Reddit

Consider visiting nearby attractions like the Saltos de Petrohué, which are also family-friendly and offer beautiful natural scenery. TikTok Packing snacks and drinks is a good idea, as food options at the resort can be limited and pricey. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Visiting Osorno Ski Center can be an expensive endeavor, particularly if you plan to use the cable lift extensively or dine at the resort. Reddit To save money, consider driving your own vehicle and packing a picnic lunch. Reddit Focus on enjoying the views from the lower accessible points or opt for hiking trails that don't require lift access. Reddit

Look for package deals or consider visiting during the shoulder seasons if possible, though this might impact snow conditions for skiing. TikTok Exploring the surrounding areas like Petrohué Falls can offer equally stunning natural beauty at a lower cost. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Osorno Ski Center is a photographer's paradise, especially for landscape and nature photographers. The iconic conical shape of the volcano, set against the backdrop of the lakes and the Andes, provides endless photographic opportunities. TikTok The summit views, particularly from the glacier, are unparalleled and offer a dramatic perspective. Reddit

Timing is key for the best shots. Consider visiting during the 'golden hours' of sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting, though sunset tickets are more expensive. Reddit Wide-angle lenses are recommended to capture the vastness of the scenery, and a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majestic Osorno Volcano

Osorno Volcano is a stratovolcano that dominates the landscape of the Llanquihue Lake region. Its near-perfect conical shape, often snow-capped, makes it a striking natural landmark. The volcano's geological history has shaped the surrounding terrain, creating the beautiful lakes and valleys that are a hallmark of southern Chile. TikTok Its imposing presence is a constant reminder of the powerful natural forces at play in this region. TikTok

Visitors can experience the volcano up close through the Osorno Ski Center. While it functions as a ski resort in winter, its accessibility for sightseeing year-round makes it a popular destination. The drive up offers increasingly dramatic views, culminating in breathtaking panoramas from the upper reaches of the mountain. Reddit The comparison to Japan's Mount Fuji by some visitors highlights its iconic and aesthetically pleasing form. TikTok

Skiing and Winter Activities

During the winter months, Osorno Ski Center transforms into a hub for winter sports enthusiasts. Skiers and snowboarders can carve down the volcanic slopes, enjoying the unique experience of descending a volcano. TikTok The resort offers various runs suitable for different skill levels, though conditions can be variable due to climate change impacting snowfall. Reddit

Beyond skiing, the winter season offers opportunities for enjoying the snowy landscape. The cable lift operates, providing access to higher elevations for those who wish to experience the summit views even in winter. Reddit Visitors are advised to check snow reports and operational status before planning a winter visit to ensure the best possible experience. TikTok

Hiking and Scenic Trails

For those who prefer to explore on foot, Osorno Ski Center offers hiking opportunities that lead to spectacular viewpoints. The hike to the Red Crater is particularly recommended, offering 'breathtaking views' along the ascent. Reddit These trails allow visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the volcano and its surroundings at their own pace. TikTok

Even if you're not skiing, the trails provide a fantastic way to appreciate the scale and grandeur of Osorno Volcano. The varied terrain and the ever-changing perspectives make each step a discovery. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and dress in layers, as mountain weather can be unpredictable. Reddit

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