South America is in the throes of winter, but the off-season is a good a time as any to book a trip to the Southern Cone. In fact, in many cases, it is even more favorable to head down now than in the hot high season. With lower prices and better deals for rooms, as well as seasonal activities and fewer tourists, you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of this before.
So, here is where to go and what to do.
Hit the Slopes
South America’s peaks are home to some of the best skiing in the world and attract an international crowd, as well as nearby residents taking advantage of the region’s generous sanctioned holidays for carving and schussing. Chile and Argentina specifically are go-to destinations, with the Andes range containing choice trails and resorts.
For both city and the serenity that only snow-covered mountains can offer, Santiago, Chile is the trip to plan. The city is where many skiers choose to stay, packing up their boots and gear to hit the slopes at one of the many resorts and ski centers located nearby, but outside, the city.
Insider Tip: Power up for big ski days by consuming plenty of protein-rich fresh seafood, which locals love and cook up so well.
Mendoza, ArgentinaThe tallest mountain in both the Southern and Western hemispheres, Aconcagua is located within Mendoza, the region where miles of flat vineyards fill the valleys and run right up to the base of bordering mountain peaks, making for some of the most scenic ski areas on the continent. And for those who tire of the slopes or are looking for a little time to relax, tasting varietals at the many bodegas in Argentina’s wine region is a highly enticing alternative.
Insider Tip: Vineyards in the region offer some of the tastiest lunches and dinners around, which are multi-course, wine-centric affairs. Take note, they tend to last a couple hours.
PatagoniaAt the end of the world is the Patagonia region of unrivaled tranquility and much untouched nature, save for the smattering of high-quality resorts and ski centers…
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