Volcano Lonquimay a ski tour and splitboading mecca in the Andes of Chile.

Day Trips

The Originals

Classics Never Loose Their Charm

Some adventures become classics for a reason. The Originals are the signature day trips that helped establish APEX Backcountry Guides and built our reputation in the Chilean Andes. From full days exploring volcanic backcountry to ambitious alpine objectives and unforgettable summit-to-hot-spring descents, each outing offers a different way to experience the mountains.

Join us for a single day or combine multiple adventures to create a custom itinerary around your interests, ability, and available time. Whether you're visiting the Araucanía region for a few days or looking to add something extraordinary to a longer Chilean ski vacation, these are the mountain experiences you'll be talking about long after your trip.

Book your tour today!

Backcountry Ski & Ride

Great For: Powder Seekers & Andes Explorers

Discover what makes the Araucanía Andes such a remarkable destination for backcountry skiing and splitboarding. Spend a full day exploring volcanic mountain terrain, from open alpine slopes and expansive bowls to beautiful tree-lined descents. With a certified local guide leading the way, your day is shaped around the snow, conditions, and abilities of your group. Expect rewarding climbs, memorable descents, and a deeper connection to the mountains that make Chile's backcountry so special.

ABILITY LEVELS:

Cruiser to Expert

4 Guests : 1 Guide

8 Guest Max Private Group

TERRAIN:

60% mountains, 40% trees

TRIP LENGTH

Up to 8hrs. on snow + transport

COST PER PERSON:

$495.00 - 1 Person

$275.00 - 2 People

$225.00 - 3 People

$195.00 - 4 People

$180.00 - 5-8 People

Get On the Snow With Us

Sierra Summit-to-Soak Tour

Great For: Summit Seekers & Hot Spring Enthusiasts

Earn an extraordinary descent from the summit of Sierra Nevada, a striking stratovolcano in the Chilean Andes. This exclusive outing takes you high above the surrounding landscape, where expansive summit views give way to an exhilarating descent of approximately 4,600 vertical feet. The reward at the bottom? A well-deserved soak in natural hot springs. It's a spectacular combination of big-mountain skiing, volcanic scenery, and a little post-adventure indulgence.

ABILITY LEVELS:

Strong to Expert

3 Guests : 1 Guide

6 Guest Max Private Group

TERRAIN:

75% mountains, 25% trees

TRIP LENGTH

Full Day

COST PER PERSON:

$550.00 - 1 Person

$325.00 - 2 People

$265.00 - 3 People

$230.00 - 4 People

$215.00 - 5-8 People

Book the Summit-to-Soak Tour

APEX Alpine Experience

Great For: Big-Mountain Enthusiasts & Summit Collectors

For those who want to make every hour in the mountains count. The APEX Alpine Experience is an extended day built around ambitious objectives, alpine starts, and the freedom to explore farther into the Andes.

With two guides dedicated to a small group of just two to four guests, the outing offers a highly personalized approach to mountain travel. Set out before sunrise, pursue rewarding alpine terrain, and make the most of the day until the last light fades. Bring your headlamp and come ready for a full-scale mountain adventure.

ABILITY LEVELS:

Strong to Expert

2 Guests : 1 Guide Max

4 Guest Max Private Group

TERRAIN:

60% mountains, 40% trees

TRIP LENGTH

Extended Full Day up to 12hrs +

COST PER PERSON:

$360.00 - 2 People

$330.00 - 3 People

$295.00 - 4 People

Request an Alpine Start

Cruiser to Proficient

Cruiser:

"I prefer a relaxed, steady pace and enjoy moderate pitches with plenty of scenery."

Technical Skills: You can control your turn shape and speed with ease on open slopes and gentle bowls up to 25 degrees. When the snow gets variable or the trees get tighter, you naturally choose a slower, deliberate line to maintain total control.

Fitness & Pace: You prefer a measured, rhythmic ascent and appreciate taking regular breaks to transition, hydrate, and take in the massive Andean views.

The Vibe: Smooth and intentional. You are here to earn your turns at a comfortable pace, waltz through the winter wonderland, and save plenty of energy for the riverside hot tubs and après.

Proficient:

"I keep a steady momentum on the skin track and love open, rolling alpine terrain."

Technical Skills: You confidently link fluid turns at a faster pace on moderately steep, open faces. If you encounter tight tree lines or challenging wind crust, you navigate them successfully by focusing on technique and dialing back your speed just a bit.

Fitness & Pace: You maintain a solid, efficient pace on the ascent, keeping the group moving smoothly with short, deliberate breaks to fuel up along the way.

The Vibe: Capable and adventurous. You revel in the fluid rhythm of a full day in the mountains and want to maximize your powder turns with style.

Strong to Expert

Strong:

"I feel confident in variable snow and maintain a steady, resilient pace."

Technical Skills: You possess a reliable kick-turn on steep slopes and feel comfortable navigating a mix of wind crust, heavy spring corn, and powder. You can confidently manage open faces and mellow glades up to 30–35 degrees.

Fitness & Pace: You maintain a relaxed, consistent rhythm during 3 to 4 hours of active skinning. You enjoy full days in the backcountry and know how to regulate your breathing and pace to conserve energy for the descent.

The Vibe: Relaxed but determined. You approach mountain challenges with smart consideration and rejoice in long, sweeping powder turns.

Expert:

"I charge from summit to valley and thrive on challenging high-alpine lines."

Technical Skills: Your technique is impeccable in all conditions—including steep, icy skin tracks, narrow couloirs, and exposed wind-blown ridges. You can seamlessly execute sharp kick-turns on 35+ degree slopes with a loaded pack and thrive on feature-filled, steep terrain.

Fitness & Pace: "All day long, all day strong!" You possess exceptional cardiovascular conditioning, easily managing 5,000+ vertical feet of climbing and multiple high-pace hot laps without missing a beat.

The Vibe: Hard-charging and uncompromising. You have extensive backcountry experience, move efficiently through transitions, and look for heavy alpine lines that make you feel truly alive.

Transportation

Box lunch with locally sourced ingredients according to your dietary preferences

Activities Insurance

Hot springs and aprés favors with Sierra Summit to Soak experience

Crampons, Ice-Axe, and Helmet if necessary

Local Certified Guide
Backcountry Ski & Ride

7:00 am Pickup at your lodging location in Malalcahuello, Chile

Transport to Trailhead

Ski tour or splitboarding approach to the objective zone with a couple of descents

Lunch in the Araucania Andina

Continue skiing or snowboarding

4:00pm Return to vehicle

Transport to lodging
1. Where is the best place for backcountry skiing and splitboarding in Chile?

The Araucanía Andes in Southern Chile offer an exceptional setting for backcountry skiing and splitboarding. Centered around Malalcahuello, this volcanic mountain region combines expansive alpine terrain, open bowls, and beautiful Araucaria forests, creating a remarkable variety of mountain experiences.

APEX Backcountry Guides operates from this area, using local knowledge to explore the surrounding mountains and select objectives suited to the group's ability and the day's conditions. The region's tree skiing can also provide valuable options when storms move through, making Araucanía Andina a rewarding destination for exploring the Chilean backcountry.

2. What is included in an APEX backcountry ski or splitboard day trip?

APEX day trips are designed to make exploring the Chilean Andes straightforward, with the essential logistics and mountain support taken care of. Each outing includes transportation, a box lunch prepared with locally sourced ingredients and tailored to your dietary preferences, activity insurance, and a certified local guide.

The Sierra Summit-to-Soak experience also includes its hot springs visit and après-ski refreshments. Your guide will help select the day's objectives according to snow conditions, weather, safety considerations, and the group's ability. You'll have the freedom to concentrate on the mountain experience while APEX takes care of the key arrangements.

Crampons, Ice-Axe, and Helmets are included at no additional charge when necessary.

3. What level of experience do I need for backcountry skiing or splitboarding in Chile?

APEX offers day trips for a range of abilities, from confident recreational skiers and snowboarders to highly experienced backcountry riders. The right outing depends on your downhill skills, touring experience, fitness, and comfort in variable snow and mountain terrain.

The Backcountry Ski & Ride experience accommodates Cruiser through Expert guests. The Sierra Summit-to-Soak Tour is intended for Expert to Pro riders, while the APEX Alpine Experience is designed for Advanced through Expert/Pro participants.

These are backcountry outings, so you should be comfortable with your equipment, touring transitions, and skiing or riding away from groomed resort runs. Be honest about your experience when booking. APEX can help match you with an appropriate objective and group.

4. How many runs and how much vertical can I expect on a backcountry ski day in Chile?

Every mountain day is different. The number of descents and total vertical depend on weather, snow stability, visibility, terrain choices, and the fitness and pace of your group.

As a general reference, an average group with good fitness can expect approximately three to four laps and more than 5,000 vertical feet of skiing or riding during a Backcountry Ski & Ride outing. Some days may favor fewer, longer descents, while others allow for more laps and exploration. The priority is always to make the most of the available conditions without compromising safety or the quality of the experience.

5. Can you go backcountry skiing or splitboarding in Chile during a snowstorm?

Often, yes. One of the advantages of skiing in the Araucanía Andes is the variety of terrain, particularly the tree-covered slopes around Malalcahuello. When visibility is limited or alpine weather becomes challenging, sheltered forest terrain can sometimes offer excellent alternatives to exposed mountain objectives.

However, heading into the mountains during a storm is never automatic. Your guide will assess snowfall, wind, visibility, avalanche conditions, and access before deciding whether an outing is appropriate. If conditions are unsuitable, the day's plan may need to change. Safety and sound mountain judgment always come first.

6. What are the differences between the APEX Backcountry Ski & Ride, Sierra Summit-to-Soak, and Alpine Experience day trips?

Each APEX outing offers a different way to experience the Chilean Andes.

Backcountry Ski & Ride is the classic full-day introduction to the Araucanía backcountry. With terrain ranging from alpine slopes to forest descents, it accommodates a broad range of abilities and is a great choice for guests looking to explore with a local guide.

Sierra Summit-to-Soak is a more demanding volcanic objective for Expert skiers and riders. The experience centers on reaching the summit of Sierra Nevada before enjoying an approximately 4,600-foot descent toward the hot springs.

APEX Alpine Experience is designed for Advanced to Expert guests looking for a longer, more ambitious day. With two guides dedicated to a group of just two or three guests, this extended outing can run from sunrise to sunset, with mountain objectives shaped around conditions and the group's abilities.

Whether you're looking for a classic day of backcountry exploration, a memorable volcanic summit, or an all-day alpine mission, there's an APEX experience to match your ambitions.

7. What avalanche safety gear do I need for an APEX backcountry ski or splitboard tour?

All guests must carry an avalanche transceiver (beacon), probe, and shovel in a suitable backpack with dedicated pockets for rescue equipment. You should bring your own gear whenever possible, as familiarity with your equipment is an important part of backcountry safety. If you need equipment, APEX can arrange a rental safety pack that includes a BCA backpack, transceiver, shovel, and probe. Please let us know when booking so we can reserve one for you.

Every guest is also provided with a two-way radio. Before heading into the mountains, your guide will lead a mandatory safety briefing that includes reviewing and practicing how to use your avalanche rescue equipment. You must have the required safety gear and participate in the safety session to take part in the tour.

8. How do I book an APEX backcountry ski or splitboarding day trip in Chile?

Booking with APEX begins with a personal conversation. Get in touch with the team to discuss your preferred dates, group size, skiing or splitboarding experience, and the type of mountain adventure you're looking for. APEX will help recommend the most suitable outing and confirm availability.

Once the activity and arrangements are agreed upon, a 50% deposit of the total trip cost is required to reserve your day trip. The remaining balance is payable directly to APEX at the completion of the services provided. Payments can be made by bank transfer, major credit card, or cash.

Day-trip deposits are non-refundable under the published booking terms. We recommend reviewing the full APEX Booking Policies before confirming your reservation.

To start planning, contact the team at info@apexbackcountryguides.com. Share a little about your experience and what you'd love to explore, and let APEX help turn a day in the Chilean Andes into a memorable mountain adventure.
The Araucanía Andes in Southern Chile offer an exceptional setting for backcountry skiing and splitboarding. Centered around Malalcahuello, this volcanic mountain region combines expansive alpine terrain, open bowls, and beautiful Araucaria forests, creating a remarkable variety of mountain experiences.

APEX Backcountry Guides operates from this area, using local knowledge to explore the surrounding mountains and select objectives suited to the group's ability and the day's conditions. The region's tree skiing can also provide valuable options when storms move through, making Araucanía Andina a rewarding destination for exploring the Chilean backcountry.
APEX day trips are designed to make exploring the Chilean Andes straightforward, with the essential logistics and mountain support taken care of. Each outing includes transportation, a box lunch prepared with locally sourced ingredients and tailored to your dietary preferences, activity insurance, and a certified local guide.

The Sierra Summit-to-Soak experience also includes its hot springs visit and après-ski refreshments. Your guide will help select the day's objectives according to snow conditions, weather, safety considerations, and the group's ability. You'll have the freedom to concentrate on the mountain experience while APEX takes care of the key arrangements.

Crampons, Ice-Axe, and Helmets are included at no additional charge when necessary.
APEX offers day trips for a range of abilities, from confident recreational skiers and snowboarders to highly experienced backcountry riders. The right outing depends on your downhill skills, touring experience, fitness, and comfort in variable snow and mountain terrain.

The Backcountry Ski & Ride experience accommodates Cruiser through Expert guests.

The Sierra Summit-to-Soak Tour is intended for Expert skiers and riders, while the APEX Alpine Experience is designed for Advanced to Expert participants.

These are backcountry outings, so you should be comfortable with your equipment, touring transitions, and skiing or riding away from groomed resort runs. Be honest about your experience when booking. APEX can help match you with an appropriate objective.
Every mountain day is different. The number of descents and total vertical depend on weather, snow stability, visibility, terrain choices, and the fitness and pace of your group.

As a general reference, an average group with good fitness can expect approximately three to four laps and more than 5,000 vertical feet of skiing or riding during a Backcountry Ski & Ride outing. Some days may favor fewer, longer descents, while others allow for more laps and exploration. The priority is always to make the most of the available conditions without compromising safety or the quality of the experience.
Often, yes. One of the advantages of skiing in the Araucanía Andes is the variety of terrain, particularly the tree-covered slopes around Malalcahuello. When visibility is limited or alpine weather becomes challenging, sheltered forest terrain can sometimes offer excellent alternatives to exposed mountain objectives.

However, heading into the mountains during a storm is never automatic. Your guide will assess snowfall, wind, visibility, avalanche conditions, and access before deciding whether an outing is appropriate. If conditions are unsuitable, the day's plan may need to change. Safety and sound mountain judgment always come first.
Each APEX outing offers a different way to experience the Chilean Andes.

Backcountry Ski & Ride is the classic full-day introduction to the Araucanía backcountry. With terrain ranging from alpine slopes to forest descents, it accommodates a broad range of abilities and is a great choice for guests looking to explore with a local guide.

Sierra Summit-to-Soak is a more demanding volcanic objective for Expert skiers and riders. The experience centers on reaching the summit of Sierra Nevada before enjoying an approximately 4,600-foot descent toward the hot springs.

APEX Alpine Experience is designed for Advanced to Expert guests looking for a longer, more ambitious day. With two guides dedicated to a group of just two or three guests, this extended outing can run from sunrise to sunset, with mountain objectives shaped around conditions and the group's abilities.

Whether you're looking for a classic day of backcountry exploration, a memorable volcanic summit, or an all-day alpine mission, there's an APEX experience to match your ambitions.
All guests must carry an avalanche transceiver (beacon), probe, and shovel in a suitable backpack with dedicated pockets for rescue equipment. You should bring your own gear whenever possible, as familiarity with your equipment is an important part of backcountry safety. If you need equipment, APEX can arrange a rental safety pack that includes a BCA backpack, transceiver, shovel, and probe. Please let us know when booking so we can reserve one for you.

Every guest is also provided with a two-way radio. Before heading into the mountains, your guide will lead a mandatory safety briefing that includes reviewing and practicing how to use your avalanche rescue equipment. You must have the required safety gear and participate in the safety session to take part in the tour.
Yes! We understand that good food is an important part of a great ski vacation, and we make every effort to accommodate dietary requirements and preferences.

Vegetarian and vegan meal options are available.

Please tell us about any allergies, intolerances or specific dietary requirements when booking. The more information we have before your arrival, the better we can prepare for you.

Our goal is to make everyone feel welcome, well-fed and ready for another day of backcountry skiing and splitboarding in the Andes.
Booking with APEX begins with a personal conversation. Get in touch with the team to discuss your preferred dates, group size, skiing or splitboarding experience, and the type of mountain adventure you're looking for. APEX will help recommend the most suitable outing and confirm availability.

Once the activity and arrangements are agreed upon, a 50% deposit of the total trip cost is required to reserve your day trip. The remaining balance is payable directly to APEX at the completion of the services provided. Payments can be made by bank transfer, major credit card, or cash.

Day-trip deposits are non-refundable under the published booking terms. We recommend reviewing the full APEX Booking Policies before confirming your reservation.

To start planning, contact the team at info@apexbackcountryguides.com or call us directly to get your reservations locked in. Share a little about your experience and what you'd love to explore, and let APEX help turn a day in the Chilean Andes into a memorable mountain adventure.

Who it's for

The Originals are for skiers and splitboarders who want to make the most of their time in Chile's Araucanía Andes. Whether you're looking for a memorable day of backcountry powder, a summit-to-hot-springs adventure, or an ambitious alpine objective, there's an outing to match the experience you're after.

These trips are particularly well suited to visitors who want to add genuine backcountry exploration to a ski vacation without committing to a multi-day expedition. Come with your own crew, join us for a single outing, or combine several days to discover more of the region. Your guide will help shape the experience around your ability, interests, and the conditions on the mountain.

Foundations of APEX

These are the experiences that started it all. The Originals helped shape the APEX approach to backcountry skiing and splitboarding: exceptional local knowledge, thoughtful mountain objectives, small groups, and a genuine appreciation for the places we explore.

Over the years, these outings have introduced guests to the volcanic terrain of the Araucanía Andes and inspired many to return for more. They're the foundation of our story, and an invitation to discover what makes our region of the Chilean Andes so special.

Recommendations

Not sure which adventure is right for you? Tell us what you enjoy, what kind of terrain you're hoping to explore, and how much time you have available. We'll help you choose an outing that makes sense for your experience, interests, and the conditions we're likely to encounter.

Every mountain day is different. A conversation with our local team is the best way to turn your ideas into a rewarding day in the Andes,

get in touch with us directly today by giving us a call.

Just winging it?

We like a little spontaneity, too. If you're already in the Malalcahuello area and the mountain is calling, get in touch. Send us your location and we'll let you know whether you're within our pickup zone and what the conditions look like for a possible outing.

A little flexibility can open the door to a memorable day in the mountains. Just remember that guide availability, weather, and snow conditions all play a part, so contact us before making plans by giving us a call.