The Portillo resort complex is 102 miles from Santiago (164km) and is situated high in the craggy Andes in the vicinity of Cerro Aconcagua, a mere 3 miles (5 km) from the Argentine border. The resort can be reached in 2 hours and some change via a modern highway, followed by a progression of switchbacks frequented by long-haul truckers carrying goods to Argentina and beyond. The closest town is Los Andes at 40 miles (63 km) to the west. The road will shut during heavy snowstorms, so be prepared for this.

Arriving Via Private vehicle service: PowderQuest includes private shuttles with professional drivers from both the airport or your hotel in Santiago when booking a 3- to 7-night stay with us to Portillo. English-speaking drivers are available upon request.

By Bus: The most economical way to get to Portillo is via bus. There are several services offered from Santiago and Los Andes in Chile and from Mendoza in Argentina. A bit of a travel hack ia involved and speaking Spanish really helps. Basically there is not direct bus service to Portillo. You need to purchase a bus ticket from Santiago to Mendoza or vice versa followed by making sure the driver is willing to stop and let you off on the highway in front of the resort. Try Turbus, Andesmar or Cata Internacional at the main bus station in Santiago or Mendoza.

Rent a car: If renting a car, remember that your vehicle will sit in the parking lot for several nights or a week, so it may not be worth it. If you are visiting several areas during your stay or plan to continue on to Mendoza, Argentina then a rental might make sense. Just keep in mind gas is expensive, the roads are not easy, and you will need to carry snow chains, even during a dry period.

Helicopter: Helicopter service to Portillo is the fastest way to get to the resort, however you’ll need to send your luggage up the mountain in a vehicle. Heli service leaves from the Santiago airport and a few rooftop landing pads in Santiago. When booking a Portillo package with PowderQuest we can arrange this custom service.