Sep’ 10 , 11:15 a.m.-Titanium Tower, Las Condes, Santiago de ChileÂ
We are lifting off from a helipad atop a downtown Santiago skyscraper, the city shrinking beneath us as the helicopter angled east toward the Andes. Within twenty minutes, we were standing on a ridge, skis on, staring at untouched powder and jagged peaks stretching endlessly — no ski lifts, no crowds, just us and the mountains.I wasn’t sure if we are in a James Bond movie or Mission Impossible.
Skyscrapers, Helipads, and High-Stakes Prep
The day began like a scene from a spy thriller. Picked up at the airport at 8 am , we headed to the Ritz-Carlton in Las Condes for a quick breakfast before changing into ski clothes. A short drive brought us to the Titanium Tower, where two elevators — one to the top 56th floor, another to the penthouse — led us to the rooftop helipad.
Waiting were Christian, an ex–fighter jet pilot with 20+ years flying for Andes Heliboarding, and Francis, our French guide with two decades of Andes experience. Between the two of them, it felt less like a guided trip and more like a precision mission.
Three Days of Pure Adrenaline
Over three unforgettable days, we skied some of the most dramatic terrain imaginable. 3,000-foot vertical drops, some starting at 14,000 feet, offered endless powder lines. Blue skies, perfect temperatures, and calm air made every run feel weightless. Each descent ended with the helicopter circling patiently, waiting for us. From above, it looked like a tiny dot against the vast mountains.
The solitude was surreal — no other helicopters, no people, just the Andes in their pristine glory. On the second and third day, we flew further south and landed on a knife-edge ridges, where the helicopter hovered on its skids while we stepped into the abyss below. Every turn carved through steep, endless powder.Luckily it snowed 2 days prior.
Rooftop Spa and Urban Serenity
Returning to the Ritz-Carlton spa each afternoon was a perfect counterbalance. Warm rooftop pools overlooked Santiago framed by the majestic Andes, a serene pause after adrenaline-fueled mornings. The contrast between high-octane adventure and tranquil luxury made each moment feel even more extraordinary.
Culinary Adventures and Wine Escapes
Evenings in Santiago were a feast. From Peruvian-Japanese fusion sushi to a classic Peruvian cevicheria and a traditional steakhouse, every meal was a celebration of bold, precise flavors. Beyond the city, we explored the Mapo Valley, visiting Santa Rosa and Haras de Pirque wineries, sipping world-class wines amidst sun-drenched vineyards and glaciers. We enjoyed specially the Carmenere wine . Santiago’s Mediterranean climate added a summer-like warmth to every experience.
A Unique, Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
From skyscraper helipads to knife-edge ridges, from untouched powder to rooftop spa serenity, and from fine dining to scenic wineries, our three-day heli-skiing adventure was truly unique. The Andes had offered a mission impossible — and we had lived it in full.
Alon, Lou, Dan, Joe B.
Guide -Francis Fornos
Thanks Alon for setting up the perfect ski trip. Incredible skiing food hotel and company. Wine country and the city walk also well worth the time.