When should I go?
The ski season generally runs from late June to the end of September. In terms of snow, mid-July through early/mid-September are the best.

June and September are generally considered low season, August high and July peak.

How active?
As energetic as you want, with plenty of opportunities for relaxing or trying alternatives to ski.

How comfortable?
Lovely four star Grand Hotel Portillo. The hotel dates back to the 1940s so do not expect the same layout and design as you would in a modern hotel.

Rooms are generally fairly small, comfortable but not spacious. Windows are relatively small. There are no TVs in rooms.

Portillo does have spectacular communal areas – the living room is the hub of the hotel and really does feel like a large family living room. The restaurant is on the same level with large picture windows to the Laguna del Inca and mountains.

There is a small exercise room/gym and a large sports hall with indoor football, table tennis, etc.

There is a small cinema where films are periodically screened.

There is a fantastic outdoor pool and hot tub which is very popular after the slopes are closed.

There is live music in the bar every evening and a disco in the basement.

Down the road in the village is the local bar – think village hall with a small bar.

If not staying in the hotel itself, you have two other options: the Octagon lodge and the Inca Lodge.

The Octagon lodge has comfortable rooms with four single beds (built in bunks) and private bathroom. It is a couple of paces from the door of the hotel.

If staying here you eat in the main dining room and have full access to all facilities of the hotel.

The Inca Lodge is a good deal more basic with dorm style bunk rooms and communal bathroom facilities. Meals are taken in the self service cafeteria but otherwise you have full access to the resort and hotel facilities.

How independent?
Whilst at Portillo you ski in/out so really there is no need for anyone to look after you.

You have access to our representative in Santiago in case of need.

Useful Links

As you already know, Pura Aventura is dedicated to safe and responsible travel. The links below provide useful content and more information about Chile. Please call us of any special requirements on 01273 676 712.

Country Information

FCO

The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office provides useful travel advices on Chile.

BBC News

BBC News provides useful information about Chile. Read more about it.

Official Government website

Find out more about Chile, by visiting its official governement website.

Prepare your holiday

Health

Before you go on your holiday to Chile, please ensure you have the correct vaccinations. Check out the NHS website for advices and visit your GP or a travel clinic.

Currency Exchange

For the latest information on the Chilean Peso currency, visit the ICE website.

Weather

To know the forecast in Chile, visit wunderground.

Pura’s Amazon shop

Find out our own Chile selection in Amazon.co.uk for a wide range of travel essentials, such as books, gadgets, clothing, etc. in preparation for your upcoming holiday.

Train ticket

If you are leaving from the UK, and want to be easy in your mind before you leave, book your train ticket or airport hotel now.

Flight deals

Find the best flight deals for your holiday to Chile with Kayak, Expedia, Vayama and Opodo.