Traveling from Santiago to the snowy heights of Farellones is a smart way to enjoy Chile’s winter without the hassle of skiing. For about $158 per person, you get roughly ten hours of fun in the snow, with roundtrip transport from Santiago, a guide, and access to Parque Farellones—Chile’s first snow entertainment park. The highlight? Tubing tracks over 250 meters long, sledding for all ages, exciting canopy circuits, and panoramic viewpoints with sweeping views of the Andes.

What we love about this tour? First, the ease of access. You don’t need to worry about navigating mountain roads or renting gear on your own. Second, the variety of activities—tubing, sledding, and canopy circuits—make it ideal for families, friends, or anyone who just wants to frolic in snow without the pressures of skiing or snowboarding.

A potential consideration? The rental clothes might disappoint some travelers, as reviews mention old, dirty gear with bad smells. So, if you’re particular about your winter wear, consider bringing your own or renting outside the tour.

This tour suits those looking for a relaxing, family-friendly outdoor day with unforgettable views and playful snow activities. If you’re keen on a hassle-free snow experience, this is a solid choice—just set your expectations for some possible organizational hiccups and prepare for a full day of fun.

Key Points

Convenient Transport: Roundtrip transfer from Santiago simplifies the journey and saves you planning hassle.
Activities Focused on Fun: Tubing, sledding, canopy circuits, and scenic viewpoints provide a variety of snow experiences.
Accessible for Most: No skiing required, making it ideal for families, non-skiers, or travelers with limited mobility.
Guided Experience: Bilingual guides add value with helpful info and safe navigation.
Weather-Dependent: The experience is weather-sensitive; poor conditions may lead to cancellations or changes.
Some Criticisms: Rental gear quality and park organization have received mixed reviews, so come prepared.

An In-Depth Look at the Farellones Park Tour

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Starting Point: Meeting at Parque Arauco

The tour kicks off early, with a 6:15 am pickup at Parque Arauco on the Av. Pdte. Kennedy Lateral. This central Santiago location is convenient for many travelers staying in the city. The bus ride to Farellones is about an hour, in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a small group size capped at 15 travelers, allowing for a more personal experience.

The Journey to Farellones

The ride offers a scenic ascent into the Andes, giving you a taste of Chile’s stunning mountain landscape. The group is typically led by a bilingual guide, who provides helpful commentary and keeps the atmosphere light. As some reviewers note, the transport and services are generally well-organized, but keep in mind that the logistics—especially with rental gear—are hit or miss for some.

Arrival at Farellones: The Snow Park

Once at Farellones, you’ll find Chile’s first snow entertainment park, specially designed for fun rather than skiing. The main attractions include tubing tracks over 250 meters long, sleds suitable for all ages, and canopy circuits with mountain views. The park rules specify that the ticket grants access to these activities but not to the ski slopes, which is ideal if you’re not interested in skiing but still want a snowy adventure.

Activities and Equipment

Your ticket covers tubing, sledding, and the canopy circuits—perfect for a family outing. The tubing tracks are praised for their length and fun factor, offering a safe thrill for kids and adults alike. The sleds are available for both big and small, making it easy for young children to join in. The canopy circuits, with their mountain vistas, provide a different kind of adrenaline, combining adventure with breathtaking scenery.

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Snow Clothing Rental: A Caveat

Optional snow clothing—boots, trousers, jackets, gloves, and glasses—is available for rent, designed to keep you comfortable. However, reviews reveal that rental gear can be old, dirty, and with bad smells, which could be a dealbreaker for some. If you’re particular about your winter gear or planning a longer stay, bringing your own might be wise.

Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

One of the tour’s highlights is the panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Andes. These spots are perfect for photos, offering sweeping vistas that make you feel like you’re on top of the world. Expect some time to soak in the scenery and snap pictures of the snow-capped peaks and mountain ranges.

Lunch and Duration

The tour doesn’t include lunch, so many travelers bring snacks or plan to eat at the park’s limited options. Some reviews mention that the day passes quickly, especially during peak season, and long lines may be an issue, particularly for popular activities. The entire experience lasts about 7 hours at Farellones, with some waiting time factored in.

Return Trip to Santiago

The tour concludes with the transfer back to Parque Arauco around 3 pm. Some reviews mention logistical challenges on the return, with reports of delays and disorganization. Still, most travelers appreciated the effort to keep the group together and the guide’s assistance.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

The balance of reviews shows a mixed picture. Many praise the stunning scenery and friendly guides, emphasizing that the snow activities are very enjoyable. For example, one traveler called Farellones “an amazing place for children,” with patience needed only during busy periods.

However, issues such as long queues for activities—especially during high season—are common, and some found the park’s organization lacking. The quality of rental gear was a significant concern for some, with one reviewer noting, “clothes were dirty, bad smell and old,” which can diminish the comfort of your day in the snow.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families or groups seeking an accessible snow day without the need for ski skills. If you value easy logistics, scenic views, and a variety of fun activities, you’ll find this tour a worthwhile adventure. Just be prepared for the possibility of crowds and some organizational quirks.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $158, you get a well-rounded day of snow fun and mountain scenery, especially if you’re not interested in skiing but still want to experience the winter landscape. The included transportation and bilingual guide add peace of mind, making it a practical choice for those unfamiliar with Chile’s mountain roads.

While some aspects—like rental gear and park organization—may fall short of perfection, the overall experience offers great value for a day in the snow. It’s particularly suited for families, casual travelers, or anyone wanting a straightforward introduction to Chile’s winter wonderland.

If your goal is to enjoy the snow without the complexity of ski lessons or equipment, and you’re okay with the possibility of queues or minor organizational flaws, this tour will deliver a memorable day among the mountains.

FAQ

Is the transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transfer from Parque Arauco is included, making the trip hassle-free.

What activities are covered with the ticket?
Your ticket grants access to tubing, sledding, canopy circuits, and scenic viewpoints, but not to ski slopes.

Do I need to rent snow clothing?
Rentals are optional and designed for comfort, but reviews suggest gear quality can be poor. Consider bringing your own if possible.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 10 hours, with about 7 hours spent at Farellones.

What is the meeting point?
The pickup is at Parque Arauco, in front of Ripley’s store, early in the morning at 6:15 am.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. Travelers usually bring snacks or eat at the park’s limited food options.

Can children participate?
Yes, sleds and activities are suitable for children, and many reviews mention it as an excellent place for families.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any hidden costs?
Some optional expenses, like snow clothing or additional activities, are extra.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour limits groups to 15 travelers for a more personalized experience.

To sum it up, the Farellones Park Tour offers a fun, accessible way to enjoy snowy mountains near Santiago without skis or snowboards. It’s best suited for families, casual snow lovers, or those seeking an easy mountain escape. Expect beautiful scenery, playful activities, and a relaxed day—just be aware of potential crowds and the quality of rental gear. Pack your patience, enjoy the views, and get ready for a memorable day among the Andes.