Perched just 10 km west of Punta Arenas, on the forested slopes of Mount Fenton — locally known as Cerro Mirador — Club Andino is one of Patagonia’s most unique year-round mountain destinations. Set within the pristine Reserva Nacional Magallanes, this small yet historic ski center combines easy access with breathtaking natural surroundings of lenga and ñirre forests.
From its highest point at 600 meters above sea level, visitors are rewarded with sweeping panoramic views over the city, the southern end of the Brunswick Peninsula, Tierra del Fuego Island, and the legendary Strait of Magellan — making it one of the very few places in the world where you can ski with a sea view.
With more than 80 years of history, Club Andino Punta Arenas offers outdoor activities in every season. In winter, its 14 ski runs cater to all skill levels and are served by a chairlift, while the mountain lodge, cafeteria, and on-site equipment rental provide everything needed for a complete snow experience. During the rest of the year, the area transforms into a hub for hiking, mountain biking, and nature escapes just minutes from the city.
Operated as a non-profit organization, the club has long played a key role in promoting mountain sports, healthy living, competitive skiing, and a strong sense of community among locals and visitors alike.
How to Get to Club Andino from Punta Arenas
Reaching the ski and outdoor area of Club Andino from downtown Punta Arenas is quick and straightforward.
The journey begins at the iconic Plaza Muñoz Gamero and covers approximately 10 km along a modern, fully paved road in excellent condition. Under normal weather conditions, the drive takes around 20 minutes, making it an easy escape into nature and mountain landscapes. During winter, when snow or ice is present, vehicles must use snow chains or studded tyres for safety. Taxis and private transfers are readily available, offering a convenient option for visitors who prefer not to drive.
Ski Center Facilities
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| Image: estrechomagallanes.com |
Set within the forests of the Reserva Nacional Magallanes, the skiable terrain of Club Andino covers approximately 18 hectares, featuring 14 scenic pistes that range from beginner training slopes to intermediate runs — all surrounded by native Patagonian woodland.
The main lift system is a 1,200-meter two-seater chairlift with a transport capacity of around 600 skiers per hour, connecting the base area with the summit in about eight minutes. A First Aid post ensures on-mountain safety throughout the ski season.
One of the base facilities houses the Ski School for beginners, along with equipment rental and storage services, making it an accessible destination for first-time skiers and families.
At the heart of the complex stands the 420 m² mountain refuge and cafeteria, with seating for up to 120 visitors, a traditional gathering point where skiers and outdoor enthusiasts can rest, warm up, and enjoy panoramic views after a day on the slopes.
Club Andino in Summer – Outdoor Activities in Punta Arenas
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| Entrance to Reserva Nacional Magallanes |
When the snow melts and the milder temperatures of the Patagonian spring and summer arrive, Club Andino transforms into one of the top outdoor recreation areas near Punta Arenas. While winter is ideal for skiing, the warmer months reveal a completely different landscape — perfect for hiking, mountain biking, scenic chairlift rides, and nature tourism inside the pristine Reserva Nacional Magallanes.
This is also the season when many international visitors arrive in the city on cruise ships, making Club Andino a popular half-day escape into Patagonia’s forests.
Scenic Chairlift & Panoramic Views
The chairlift operates for sightseeing, offering spectacular views over Punta Arenas, the Strait of Magellan, Tierra del Fuego Island, and — on clear days — the distant Darwin Mountain Range. It is one of the easiest ways to experience the region’s landscapes without demanding physical effort.
Hiking & Nature Trails
Summer is the best time to explore the reserve’s well-marked trails, which wind through native lenga, coigüe, and ñirre forests and follow clear mountain streams. The main routes include:
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Sendero de Movilidad Reducida (accessible trail)
- Sendero Bocatoma
- Circuito Las Lengas
- Circuito Los Ñirres
- Circuito Los Coigües
Camping is not permitted inside the national reserve, so all visits must be planned as day trips.
Mountain Biking
The area also becomes a key spot for mountain biking in Punta Arenas, hosting rides and competitions during the summer season. The Club provides services and infrastructure for riders, making it one of the most accessible MTB locations in southern Patagonia.
Canopy / Zipline Experience
For adventure seekers, the multi-platform canopy circuit offers a thrilling way to experience the forest from above, always accompanied by certified guides. The combination of speed, height, and panoramic views makes it one of the most memorable summer activities in the region.
Practical Information for Visitors – Club Andino Punta Arenas
- Location: Magallanes National Reserve, Magallanes Region, southern Chile
- Main Gateway City: Punta Arenas
- Distance from the City Center: 10 km (around 20 minutes by car)
- Access Road: Fully paved and in excellent condition
- GPS Coordinates: -53.1639, -70.9173
- Altitude: Approx. 200–600 m a.s.l.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round — winter (June to September) for skiing and snow activities; summer for hiking and mountain biking
- Main Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, trekking, mountain biking, scenic viewpoints
- Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP)
- Language: Spanish (basic English available in tourist services)
Essential Travel Tips
- Transportation: The easiest way to reach Club Andino is by car or taxi from downtown. There is no regular public transport to the ski area, so private transport or a transfer is recommended.
- Winter Road Conditions: Snow chains or studded tyres are mandatory in icy or snowy conditions. Always check the weather forecast before heading up.
- Equipment Rental: Ski and snowboard gear rental is available on-site during the winter season.
- What to Bring: Dress in warm layers, including a waterproof and windproof jacket, gloves, a hat, and proper footwear. In summer, bring a windbreaker, sunscreen, and water.
- Connectivity: Mobile signal can be limited in some mountain areas.
- Services: Mountain lodge, café/restaurant in high season, ski lifts, and beginner to intermediate slopes.
Travel Tip
Plan to spend at least half a day enjoying the area. In winter, you can combine skiing with spectacular views of the Strait of Magellan, while in summer the trails inside Reserva Nacional Magallanes offer excellent opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching — all just minutes from the city.
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