Tips for Traveling in South America (Chile and Argentina)

Winter Ski Travel (June-October):
1.) When arriving into Chile and Argentina remember you must pay an entrance fee (Chile = $100.00 U.S.D. for U.S. citizens)
2.) Travel as light as possible.
3.) Concentrate on plenty of socks and underwear.
4.) Make sure your ski equipment is tuned for a wetter snow pack and working in proper order.
5.) Rental shops for ski/snowboard equipment is possible at most ski resorts, but the equipment is usually outdated and renting is comparably expensive.
6.) Use a certified taxi service that will get you up to the mountains by having chains or 4-wheel drive for mountain driving. Renting a car can be expensive along with fuel costs. Make sure you are not stuck waiting for the taxi service to collect and fill their vehicles with too many people.
7.) Set price before loading up gear into taxi. Barter if necessary, there are always plenty of taxi services being offered.
8.) Take plenty of local currency to the ski resorts. ATM's can be hard to find if even available, and many places do not accept travel checks. While at resorts, U.S. currency usually will work, but don't count on a good exchange. Exchange at the airport so you don't have to hassle with it later. Most hotels and even hostels have safe boxes to keep personals.
9.) Watch your stuff. Like anywhere there are always those who want what you got. Skiing is considered a rich mans sport in South America and carrying around your flashy gear attracts the eyes.
10.) Very Important!!!!!! Proper Eyewear for the flat light factor. (yellow, amber, rose or blue lenses)
11.) Goretex or waterproof pants and jacket as well as dry gloves.
12.) Hostels may have their downsides, but in the end the people you meet will more than make up for it as well as the price. (especially in more expensive places like Termas de Chillan, Farellones, Bariloche, and Las Lenas) If travelling with a group of 4 or more you can usually find good deals for cabanas or something more private.
13.) Holidays are common throughout the winter months in both Chile and Argentina, and make both lift tickets and lodging more expensive. Mid-Late July for Chile and mid August for Argentina. There are also several three-day weekends throughout the winter months for both countries.
14.) Washing your belonging can be difficult and expensive so take plenty of underwear and socks.
15.) Plan on alternative activities. Ski Resorts like Volcan Villarrica of Pucon, Chile can be socked in for days without offering any skiing. Don't sit and wait, go out and explore. Kayaking/rafting, hot springs, horseback riding only begin to offer low cost alternatives.
16.) Hitchhiking is always an alternative and generally safe in both Argentina and Chile but travel light and be careful.
17.) Learn Spanish! Knowing even a few key questions and phrases will help. Don't be shy, most are always willing to help.
18.) Try using a tour company like Snovango Ski Tours to handle all the tedious details like travelling from ski resort to ski resort. We are inexpensive and knowledgeable. We are also open to personal itineraries and designed trips that fit your plans. Let us know.