Santiago draws Brazilian winter tourists with cheap flights and seasonal ice attractions

Santiago, Chile, has emerged as the most sought‑after international winter destination for Brazilian travellers, topping Kayak’s July 2026 search rankings and offering the lowest average airfare at R$ 1,994. Visitors are attracted by the city’s proximity to snow‑covered ski areas such as Portillo and Valle Nevado, its renowned wine and gastronomy, and the advantage of speaking Spanish, which enhances safety and autonomy.

During the July school holidays the capital also hosts a range of temporary winter attractions. Major shopping centres—including the Costanera Center, Parque Arauco and Mall Plaza sites—install artificial ice rinks that operate regardless of outdoor temperatures. For a true snow experience, families travel about 40 km to Farellones, where a dedicated snow park offers tubing and snow‑slide rides, while nearby resorts Valle Nevado and El Colorado provide skiing and snowboarding. Temperatures in Santiago range from 3 °C to 15 °C, dropping well below freezing on the mountains. Visitors are advised to use public metro for urban rinks, and 4×4 vehicles or shuttle services for mountain sites, with pre‑booking recommended during the peak holiday period.