1. What is the difference between First Tracks, Summit Series and Bespoke Series?

• APEX Ascend offers three distinct all-women’s backcountry ski and splitboard experiences in Chile, each designed around a different level of mountain experience and ambition.

• First Tracks is a confidence-building introduction to backcountry touring for confident resort skiers and snowboarders who want to develop their skills, improve touring efficiency and learn to travel more confidently beyond the resort boundaries. With supportive coaching from experienced female guides, you'll build practical mountain knowledge while enjoying the rewards of exploring Chile's Araucanía Andes with a group of like-minded women.

• Summit Series is designed for strong to expert backcountry skiers and splitboarders ready for more demanding alpine terrain and ambitious volcanic objectives. The focus is on developing ski mountaineering skills, pursuing high-mountain adventures and experiencing some of southern Chile's spectacular volcanic landscapes.

• Bespoke Series gives private groups the freedom to create a tailor-made experience around their dates, ability levels, mountain ambitions and preferred accommodation. Whether you want to focus on backcountry progression, challenging alpine objectives or a combination of both, our female guiding team can help shape an adventure that reflects your group's aspirations.

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2. How much skiing or snowboarding experience do I need for First Tracks?

• First Tracks is designed for women at a Cruiser to Proficient skiing or riding level who are confident at resort and ready to explore the backcountry. You don't need previous ski touring or splitboarding experience, but you should be comfortable skiing or riding off-piste and ideally have some experience in powder snow.

• You should be able to control your speed and turn shape on ungroomed terrain, including open slopes and variable snow conditions. The ability to adapt your technique when snow becomes more challenging is important, although you don't need to be an expert skier or snowboarder.

• Throughout this guided backcountry skiing program in Chile, our female guides will introduce the essential skills needed to plan and prepare for tours, use touring equipment, improve uphill efficiency, read terrain and make informed decisions in the mountains. First Tracks is about developing your confidence and knowledge at a supportive pace while discovering the enjoyment of earning your turns in the Chilean Andes.

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3. What experience do I need to join Summit Series?

• Summit Series is designed for strong to expert backcountry skiers and splitboarders with previous touring experience and the technical ability to manage challenging mountain terrain. You should be confident skiing or riding variable snow conditions, including powder, wind-affected snow, firm surfaces and spring corn.

• A reliable kick-turn, efficient transitions and the ability to maintain a steady pace during sustained climbs are important. You should also be comfortable descending steeper terrain while carrying a touring pack. Strong-level guests should be capable of approximately three to four hours of active skinning, while expert-level objectives may involve significantly greater climbing distances and vertical gain.

• This is an ambitious Chile ski mountaineering and volcano touring experience rather than an introduction to backcountry skiing. Our professional female mountain guides will assess conditions, group ability and the suitability of each objective, but guests should arrive with the experience and mountain confidence needed to enjoy demanding days in the volcanic Andes.

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4. How physically fit do I need to be for backcountry skiing and splitboarding in Chile?

• A good level of cardiovascular fitness and general physical conditioning will help you get the most out of your APEX Ascend adventure. Unlike resort skiing, backcountry touring involves climbing uphill under your own power using climbing skins on skis or a splitboard. Depending on the day's objective, you can expect sustained ascents, changing snow conditions, multiple descents and several consecutive days of mountain activity.

• For First Tracks, you should be comfortable with a steady, manageable pace and a full day outdoors, with time to learn, practise and take breaks. Summit Series requires a higher level of fitness. Strong-level guests should be prepared for approximately three to four hours of active skinning, while expert-level objectives can involve around 5,000 vertical feet or more.

• We recommend preparing with regular hiking, cycling, running and strength training, particularly exercises that develop leg strength and endurance. Good fitness will help you recover between outings and enjoy the full experience, from the skin track and mountain descents to the social activities and relaxation that make APEX Ascend more than just a ski tour.

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5. Are APEX Ascend trips exclusively for women, and will I be guided by women?

• APEX Ascend is an all-women's backcountry ski and splitboard program, and every Ascend tour is led by female guides. Our aim is to create a supportive, welcoming environment where women can develop their mountain skills, challenge themselves and share the rewards of exploring Chile's backcountry together.

• Our professional female mountain guides bring their experience and knowledge to every part of the adventure, from backcountry touring and alpine skills to assessing terrain and making sound decisions in changing mountain conditions. Whether you're taking your first steps into ski touring with First Tracks or pursuing ambitious volcanic objectives with Summit Series, you'll be learning and exploring alongside women who share a passion for the mountains.

• Just as importantly, Ascend is about the connections formed along the way. Shared challenges on the skin track, laughter during the day and stories around the dinner table all contribute to the experience. Come for the mountain adventure, stay for the friendships and leave with memories that last long after the snow melts.

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6. Can I join on my own, and will I have to share a room?

• Absolutely! You don't need to bring a friend or arrive with an established group to join APEX Ascend. Many women travel independently and join our scheduled backcountry ski and splitboard tours to meet others who share their enthusiasm for mountain adventures. It's a wonderful opportunity to build new friendships, enjoy a shared experience and become part of a supportive group exploring the Chilean Andes.

• Single-occupancy accommodation is available at an additional cost, subject to availability. If room sharing is required, women will only be accommodated with other women. We'll discuss your preferences and available rooming arrangements with you before confirming your booking, so you know what to expect.

• With small groups, shared mountain experiences and relaxed evenings enjoying local food and hospitality, travelling solo is a great way to experience the spirit of APEX Ascend.

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7. Are APEX Ascend programs inclusive of transgender and non-binary guests?

• APEX Ascend is committed to creating a welcoming, respectful and inclusive environment. We recognise that gender identity is personal, and we want prospective guests to feel comfortable asking questions and understanding how the program works before booking.

• We welcome enquiries from transgender and non-binary guests who are interested in participating. If you'd like to discuss whether an Ascend trip is the right fit for you, please contact us confidentially. We're happy to have an open conversation and share the relevant information about participation and arrangements, allowing everyone to make an informed decision with confidence.

• Our goal is to foster an atmosphere of mutual respect, encouragement and shared enjoyment of the mountains, where guests can focus on learning, exploring and connecting through a common love of backcountry skiing and adventure.

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8. What is the guide-to-guest ratio, and how large are the groups?

• APEX Ascend maintains a standard guiding ratio of four guests per guide, with a maximum group size of eight guests and a minimum of four. These small-group numbers allow our professional female guides to provide a more personal experience, communicate effectively and select terrain and daily objectives appropriate to the group's abilities and the prevailing mountain conditions.

• We also take care to understand each guest's skiing or riding experience, fitness and expectations before the trip. First Tracks is aimed at Cruiser to Proficient skiers and riders, while Summit Series is intended for Strong to Expert/Pro participants. Matching guests with compatible abilities and objectives helps create a positive group dynamic and a more rewarding mountain experience.

• For private groups, the Bespoke Series offers additional flexibility to shape the experience around your group's goals and preferred level of challenge. Our priority is to maintain appropriate guiding arrangements while making the most of the terrain and conditions available.

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9. Do I need experience using crampons and an ice axe?

Previous experience using crampons and an ice axe is advantageous for certain alpine and volcanic objectives, but it isn't essential for every APEX Ascend participant. The equipment required will depend on the program, the planned route and the mountain conditions.

For Summit Series objectives that involve mountaineering terrain, our guides will explain the correct techniques, demonstrate how to use the equipment and provide practical instruction before it is needed. The program also includes basic mountaineering and rescue instruction as part of its mountain preparation.

If you've never used crampons or an ice axe before, don't worry. Our guides will help you understand the equipment and the techniques involved. Being comfortable following instructions, asking questions and applying what you've learned is important. Mountain conditions can change quickly, and knowing how to use technical equipment correctly is an essential part of responsible ski mountaineering in Chile.

 

• 10. What ski touring and splitboarding equipment should I bring?

• Having the right equipment makes a significant difference to your comfort, efficiency and safety during consecutive days of backcountry skiing in Chile. You'll need appropriate ski or snowboard boots, technical mountain clothing, warm personal layers, gloves, goggles and sunglasses to manage changing winter and alpine conditions.

• For ski touring, you'll need touring skis with compatible touring bindings and climbing skins. Splitboarders will need a suitable splitboard setup, skins and touring hardware. Avalanche safety equipment is essential for backcountry travel and includes a functioning transceiver, probe and shovel. Depending on the mountain objectives and conditions, crampons, an ice axe and other mountaineering equipment may also be required.

• We highly recommend bringing your own ski or snowboard boots whenever possible. Comfortable, properly fitting boots make a tremendous difference on long climbs and full days in the mountains. We'll provide a more detailed equipment and clothing checklist before your trip and help you understand what is appropriate for your particular program.

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• 11. Can I rent backcountry ski, splitboard and avalanche safety equipment in Chile?

• Yes! APEX Backcountry Guides works with our local equipment partner, Isoterma Cero, to help arrange rental equipment for your backcountry ski touring or splitboarding adventure in the Araucanía Andes.

• Subject to availability, rental equipment can include touring skis, splitboards and avalanche safety equipment. Let us know what you need when booking and provide your relevant sizing and equipment details on the intake form. We recommend arranging rentals well in advance to ensure that appropriate equipment and sizes are available for your arrival.

• While we can help coordinate much of the specialist equipment locally, we strongly recommend traveling with your own ski or snowboard boots. A comfortable, properly fitted boot is one of the most important parts of a successful touring setup. If you're unsure about your equipment requirements, speak with us before traveling and we'll help you prepare for your APEX Ascend experience.

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12. What happens if weather or snow conditions are poor?

• Mountain weather is part of the adventure, and flexibility is one of the greatest advantages of backcountry skiing in Chile's Araucanía Andes. Our region offers a variety of mountain environments, from open volcanic slopes and alpine terrain to sheltered forests and tree-skiing zones. This diversity gives our guides options when wind, visibility, snowfall or avalanche conditions affect the original objectives.

• Every day's itinerary is evaluated according to weather forecasts, snowpack stability, avalanche hazard, terrain and the group's abilities. If conditions aren't appropriate for a planned ascent or descent, our guides will adapt the objective and explore suitable alternatives whenever possible. Some high-alpine objectives may need to be postponed or replaced, and there may be occasions when a rest day or a different activity is the best option.

• Summit success and particular snow conditions can never be guaranteed. Our goal is to make the most of every opportunity while respecting the mountain environment and making responsible decisions. Safety always comes first, and flexibility is an important part of a rewarding guided ski touring experience in Chile.

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• 13. What can I do on the flexible activity day if I don't want another day of skiing?

• One of the special features of APEX Ascend is the opportunity to enjoy more than just the skiing. The flexible activity day gives you the choice to upgrade to an additional day on the mountain or enjoy a guided excursion to explore local waterfalls and relax in natural hot tubs.

• The ski option is ideal if you're keen to make the most of the snow and spend another day exploring the backcountry or resort terrain. Alternatively, the waterfall and hot-tub experience offers a more relaxed way to discover the Araucanía region, enjoy its beautiful natural surroundings and recharge after several days of mountain activity.

• Where group preferences differ, we can coordinate separate activities, with the mountain group accompanied by guides and the other guests enjoying the guided waterfall and hot-tub excursion with our local team. It's a great opportunity to experience another side of Chile while sharing the day with your fellow Ascend guests. The additional ski day is an optional upgrade and is subject to the program arrangements.

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• 14. Where will we stay during an APEX Ascend program?

• The First Tracks and Summit Series programs combine two welcoming accommodations in the Araucanía region, giving you the opportunity to experience both the mountain atmosphere of Malalcahuello and the lakeside character of Pucón.

• Your first four nights are spent at Posada del Río Lodge in Malalcahuello, an intimate, owner-operated mountain retreat on the banks of the Río Cautín. Surrounded by the spectacular volcanic landscape of the Chilean Andes, it offers a relaxed atmosphere, genuine local hospitality and comfortable spaces to unwind after a day in the mountains.

• The final two nights are spent at Hotel Casa Solaria in Pucón, a welcoming hotel with views of Villarrica Volcano and a location just steps from Lake Villarrica. Its comfortable rooms and inviting shared spaces provide a lovely base for enjoying Pucón's waterfront, restaurants and outdoor attractions.

• For private groups booking the Bespoke Series, we can also discuss distinctive accommodation options such as riverside Casa Río Experience in Malalcahuello or Claro de Luna Luxury Lodge near Pucón. These private retreats offer an alternative way to experience the region, with arrangements tailored to your group's preferences and budget.

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• 15. Are meals, drinks and transportation included, and can you accommodate dietary requirements?

• Yes. APEX Ascend is designed to take care of the main travel and hospitality arrangements so you can focus on enjoying your mountain adventure. Scheduled First Tracks and Summit Series programs include transportation to and from Temuco Airport (ZCO), as well as transportation to the planned mountain outings, activities and dinners. International and domestic flights are not included, so most international guests will need to connect through Santiago before flying to Temuco.

• Your package includes daily breakfasts featuring locally sourced ingredients, boxed lunches for activity days and dinners at a selection of the valley's restaurants. This is a wonderful opportunity to discover the flavours of the Araucanía region and enjoy the local hospitality that makes a mountain holiday memorable. Après-lodge drinks are not included unless specifically arranged.

• Vegetarian and vegan meal options are available. Please tell us about any allergies, intolerances or other dietary requirements when booking so we can communicate your needs to our accommodation and restaurant partners in advance. We'll do our best to coordinate suitable options, although guests with specific or severe allergies should discuss their requirements with us before confirming their reservation.

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16. What is included in an APEX Ascend program, and what costs extra?

• Our scheduled First Tracks and Summit Series programs include six nights of accommodation, transportation to and from Temuco Airport and scheduled activities, guided mountain experiences, Corralco Ski Resort passes, breakfasts, boxed lunches, dinners at selected local restaurants, wellness experiences and an APEX welcome package. Activities Insurance is also included.

• The program combines guided backcountry skiing and snowboarding with time to enjoy the wider Araucanía region. Depending on the itinerary, experiences include local cultural activities, natural hot tubs and waterfalls, and an entrance to Termas Jardín Botánico in Pucón. Summit Series also includes basic mountaineering and rescue instruction as part of its mountain program.

• Optional upgrades and additional expenses include:

1. An upgrade to an additional ski day on the flexible activity day.

2. Single-occupancy accommodation, subject to availability.

3. Upgraded accommodation at Corralco Resort & Spa or a private lodge, subject to availability.

4. Touring ski, splitboard and avalanche safety equipment rentals.

5. Concierge services, where arranged.

• International and domestic flights, extracurricular transportation, personal travel insurance and gratuities for guides and local staff are not included. Après-lodge drinks are also excluded unless specifically arranged. Bespoke Series inclusions and pricing are developed around the group's preferred itinerary, accommodation and services, so please contact us to discuss the details of your private experience.

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17. Is Activities Insurance included, and should I arrange my own travel insurance?

• Yes. Activities Insurance is included in the APEX Ascend package. [INSURANCE DETAILS TO BE UPDATED: Insert the confirmed scope of Activities Insurance, including covered activities, medical treatment, rescue and evacuation provisions, limits and exclusions.]

• We also highly recommend arranging personal travel insurance before travelling to Chile. Your policy should be checked carefully to ensure it covers the activities you intend to participate in, particularly backcountry skiing, splitboarding, ski touring and ski mountaineering, as well as medical expenses, emergency evacuation and trip cancellation.

• Standard travel insurance policies may exclude off-piste skiing or activities outside marked resort boundaries. Activities Insurance included in the APEX package and personal travel insurance are not necessarily the same, so it's important to understand the scope of each. Please contact us if you have questions about the included cover, and check directly with your insurer that your policy provides the protection you need for your trip.

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18. How do I book an APEX Ascend program, when is payment due and what happens if I need to cancel?

• We prefer a personal booking process so we can get to know you, understand your skiing or riding experience and help you choose the right APEX Ascend program. Contact APEX Backcountry Guides with your preferred dates, group size, experience and any questions about the itinerary. We'll help you decide whether First Tracks, Summit Series or a Bespoke Series experience is the best fit for your goals.

• Once availability is confirmed, a 20% deposit of the total trip cost is required to secure your place on a multi-day program. The remaining balance is due directly to APEX 21 days before the trip commencement date. Payments can be made by bank transfer, major credit card or cash. Rates and deposits are quoted in US dollars, and the published booking policy applies.

• If you need to cancel, please notify APEX by telephone or email. Where a suitable replacement guest cannot be found, the published cancellation policy provides the following terms:

1. More than 21 days before departure: An amount of the deposit may be applied to a new booking within the same season, subject to the policy.

2. 21 to 14 days before departure: 70% of all funds received by APEX are non-refundable.

3. Less than 14 days before departure: 100% of all funds received by APEX are non-refundable.

• You may arrange a replacement guest, subject to APEX approval of their skiing or riding ability and suitability for the program. A $100 administration fee applies, and finding a suitable replacement is the guest's responsibility. Deposits cannot normally be transferred to another season; medical emergencies requiring rebooking are considered case by case.

• If APEX has to cancel because of unforeseen circumstances, the published policy provides options that may include transferring applied funds to another trip or season, placing funds on account for a new trip within two years at the original booking cost, or refunding applied funds if the other options are unsuitable. If minimum guest numbers are not reached, a buyout option may be offered.

• We recommend reading the full APEX booking and cancellation policy before confirming your reservation. If you have questions about dates, payments or the booking process, get in touch directly. We're always happy to talk mountains and help you start planning your all-women's backcountry adventure in Chile.