Getting there:

The EFE railway (www.efe.cl; 585-5000, $16-$22) provides the most comfortable and scenic ride from Santiago to the city of Chillan. The recommended 4- hour ride quickly passes with the first class service, drinks, and meals, which are available at a reasonable price.

Tur Bus (www.turbus.cl) has a few buses running from Santiago to the city of Chillan daily for around $12-20.

If in a hurry, Lan Chile (www.lan.com) flies directly to the city of Chillan from Santiago. The resort can arrange a transfer from the airport, train station, or bus terminal to the mountain. Taxis are also happy to drive the one hour commute for around $100.

Flights also go into Concepcion, Chile's second-largest city. It is approximately an hour drive to Chillan.

Visas: Countries whose citizens should pay for a Tourist Visa upon entering Chile include the following: Australia US$34; Canada US$50; United States US$ 131; Mexico US$100; among others. In the case of the United States, the visa is valid for the length of the passport used to initially enter Chile. These fees are reciprocity taxes and are applied to countries that charge Chileans for applying for a visa. These fees can be paid in cash, in either Chilean pesos or US dollars, or with a major credit card, in the Santiago International airport. Travelers Checks are not accepted.