Summer Skiing to the Desert: A Two-Week Itinerary Exploring Chile

Nestled high in the Andes, the legendary Portillo resort in Chile offers an unforgettable alpine escape. Its remote location only adds to its mystique, surrounded by towering peaks and the mirror-like surface of Laguna del Inca, creating a dramatic and otherworldly setting for your ski adventure. A true bucket-list destination, skiers can enjoy gliding across the frozen lake, riding a chair lift over the winding highway, or, for the most adventurous, riding the Roca Jack slingshot lift.

Nestled on the Argentine border, Portillo’s only option is to stay on the mountain. You can choose from standalone huts or stay in the iconic yellow hotel. Four meals a day are included, so you’ll quickly become friends with the waitstaff. There are multiple daily scheduled activities to choose from when you’re not out skiing, or bring a deck of cards to the living room and enjoy game time with other guests.

Portillo is a truly magical place that any ski enthusiast should experience.

Next, travel north to the surreal expanse of the Atacama Desert, the driest place on Earth, where salt flats, geysers, and flamingo-dotted lagoons create a scene straight out of a dream.

Wake up before sunrise and go to El Tatio to see the geysers as the sun rises.

Visit Machuca, a traditional desert village where you can see local artisan crafts and even try some llama.

No trip to Atacama is complete without visiting ‎⁨Reserva Nacional de Flamencos⁩, the salt flat that draws many species of flamingos. The mirror-like surface of the lake reflects the vibrant pink of the flamingos and the snowy mountains in the distance, creating an astonishingly beautiful scene.

Atacama is known to be one of the best places in the world for stargazing, so book an astronomical experience to fully appreciate a night filled with constellations that you cannot see in the northern hemisphere.

Finally, trade desert sands for Pacific breezes as you fly to Rapa Nui—better known as Easter Island—where the mysterious Moai statues stand sentinel over windswept cliffs, offering a powerful glimpse into one of the world’s most remote and enigmatic cultures.

A guide is necessary, not only as the best way to learn about the island's fascinating history but also to access the Moai, which are rightfully protected in restricted areas. While the complete and standing Moai are impressive, make sure to stop at the quarry to see how the statues are carved.

Visit Orango, the ceremonial village for the Birdman competition, and learn about this lesser-known part of history while marveling at the Rano Kau volcano.

The sunsets are breathtaking! To make it even more memorable, watch the sunset behind Ahu Tahai, the only publicly accessible Moai on the island.

Since most return flights to the US tend to be red-eyes, spend the day stretching your legs and exploring Santiago.

Take a ride up the funicular for a bird's eye view of the expansive city. Enjoy a Chilean hot dog and explore the mountain-top park.

Visit the sculpture park in the Providencia district.

Explore the historical center, and head to La Moneda Cultural Center, located under La Moneda Palace.