When the lifts shut down in Europe and North America, and alpine towns trade snow for sunshine, the snow-seekers of the world don’t necessarily hang up their skis. Instead, they pivot—toward the Southern Hemisphere. From the rugged Andes of South America to the volcano-lined slopes of New Zealand and the surprisingly snowy ranges of Australia, skiing “down under” offers a whole different flavor of winter adventure.

Why Ski the Southern Hemisphere?

Skiing in the Southern Hemisphere isn’t just about flipping the calendar to chase snow in June and July—it’s a completely different cultural and geographic experience. The scenery is dramatic and diverse: think condors soaring above the Andes, geothermal pools near ski fields, and kangaroos hopping past eucalyptus-fringed slopes.

Plus, it’s an ideal opportunity for serious skiers and snowboarders to train or indulge in a double winter without waiting for the next December.

Top Ski Destinations in the Southern Hemisphere

1. Chile – The Andes and the Endless Views

Chile is a dream for adventurous skiers. Its spine is the Andes, the second-highest mountain range in the world, where snow sticks between June and October.

• Portillo is legendary—both for its high-altitude powder and its dramatic yellow hotel perched above the Inca Lake.
• Valle Nevado, near Santiago, is one of South America’s most modern ski resorts, with lift connections to La Parva and El Colorado, forming the “Three Valleys of the Andes.”
• For off-piste lovers, Nevados de Chillán offers volcanic terrain and natural hot springs.

2. Argentina – Patagonian Powder and Alpine Charm

Argentina brings a dose of European flair with its ski towns, paired with South American ruggedness.

• Bariloche’s Cerro Catedral is the country’s largest resort, offering tree runs and a lively après-ski scene. The town itself feels like a slice of the Alps with a Patagonian twist.
• Las Leñas, more remote and high-altitude, is ideal for advanced skiers chasing steep chutes and big-mountain lines.

3. New Zealand – Adventure Capital Meets Snow

New Zealand’s South Island delivers skiing amid jaw-dropping landscapes—fjords, lakes, and craggy peaks—all accessible from friendly towns.

• Queenstown is a hub for adrenaline junkies and offers access to The Remarkables and Coronet Peak.
• Wanaka, a quieter alternative, gives access to Treble Cone (amazing for off-piste) and Cardrona (great for families and freestylers).

Weather can be unpredictable, but when conditions line up, it’s magic.

4. Australia – Snow in the Land of Sun

Yes, Australia has skiing! The Snowy Mountains in New South Wales and the Victorian Alps get reliable snowfall between June and September.

• Perisher is the Southern Hemisphere’s largest ski area, with over 1,200 hectares.
• Thredbo is known for having Australia’s longest ski run.

The après scene is cozy and fun, often ending with a local beer by the fire.

5. Lesotho – Skiing in the Kingdom in the Sky

Yes, you can ski in Africa. Tucked into the high Maluti Mountains of Lesotho, Afriski is Sub-Saharan Africa’s only ski resort—and a surprisingly legit one at over 3,000 meters. The ski area is small, with one main slope and a terrain park, but snowmaking and cold nights stretch the season from June to August.

What makes it special is the surreal contrast: snow-covered slopes surrounded by traditional Basotho huts, herders wrapped in colorful blankets, and distant peaks that feel more like Tibet than Africa. The vibe is laid-back, with gear rentals, cozy chalets, and mountain bars serving local Maluti beer.

It’s not about vertical drop or deep powder—it’s about skiing where you least expect it. Add a 4x4 drive up the Sani Pass or a detour through rural Lesotho, and it becomes a winter experience like no other.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Season timing: Ski season in the Southern Hemisphere typically runs from mid-June to early October, depending on snow.
• Weather volatility: Especially in New Zealand and Australia, conditions can change fast. It’s wise to build in flexibility.
• Cost: Flights can be pricey from Europe or North America, but once on the ground, skiing in South America can be more affordable than Alpine resorts.
• Altitude: Many resorts in Chile and Argentina are high—bring sunblock and hydrate well.

Heated socks and tech-friendly gloves are great extras. If you're flying on a budget airline, check baggage limits ahead of time – and remember that many resorts offer on-site equipment rental that could reduce what you need to carry.

More Than Just Skiing

What makes skiing in the Southern Hemisphere so unique isn’t just the snow—it’s what comes with it. You can ride powder in the morning and sip Malbec in Mendoza by evening. Or go from a glacier run to a beach in New Zealand in one day. The contrast is part of the charm.

Final Thoughts

Skiing in the Southern Hemisphere isn’t just a novelty—it’s a rich, multi-sensory adventure. Whether you’re a dedicated snow-chaser or a curious traveler looking to see the mountains from a new angle, heading south for winter delivers unexpected beauty, cultural fusion, and the unbeatable joy of carving turns while the rest of the world is sweating in the sun.

Tip: Don’t pack away your skis after April. The season’s only just beginning—somewhere.