Portillo has a well thought out plan to entertain guests. If the unfortunate (or fortunate) storm rolls in, most of the lifts shut down because the visibility is zero, and the down time begins. Not to fear.The resort offers a heated pool, Jacuzzi, fitness center, gymnasium, aerobics and yoga classes, cinema, game room, children’s activities, daycare center (ages 3-7), disco, and a piano bar. Usually, once all of these amenities are experienced the storm is gone, and the powder takes over the entertaining.

The hotel also offers spa services.

An on-snow alternative is snowshoeing. Snow "rackets" can be rented on site.

Helicopter skiing
The concession company, Lassa, runs the heli-operation at Portillo. Runs consist of 2,400 to 4,000 vertical feet depending on conditions. The bird flies from mid July to mid September. Rates are $240 for the first run and $170 for each addition run per person. The flight alone through the snow covered Andes is worth the price, not to mention the ride down them. For reservations email info@skiportillo.com