Ski Your Way Around the World

North America and Europe normally come to mind when you think of the best ski destinations the world has to offer, but the other five continents also have highly rated destinations for this popular travel activity.

If one of your bucket list items is to truly ski around the world, here’s your curated list of the top destinations by continent. And if it wasn’t on your bucket list before, it should be now.

Africa

Until nearly a decade ago, the Atlas Mountains of Morocco had been home to some of Africa’s most remote villages. Today it’s become a hidden gem for travelers and a popular place for beginners and intermediate skiers. While small in size, the snow is smooth and views are spectacular. This is a great, yet unexpected, place to hit the slopes.

Antarctica

This continent is the least accessible and developed, so there won’t be any ski resorts to book for a winter getaway. However, if you’re ever-so-adventurous and have the funds to back it up, consider Ski Antarctica’s yacht-based ski adventures for your next quest. Likewise, Antarctic Logistics and Expeditions also offers ski excursions for a hefty price (nearly $30,000!)

Asia

The popularity of skiing is on the rise in Asia, with South Korea, China, and Japan all having top-tier ski destinations. The very best skiing can be found in Japan, which has a thriving ski and snowboard culture. Nieseko Hirafu tops a lot of lists thanks to its 30 ski trails, 15 lifts and gondolas, and active nightlife. With its over-abundance of fresh snow, paired with breathtaking scenery, this mountain resort should top anyone’s list during Japan’s winters.

Australia

Snow is typically limited in most parts of the land down under, but Mt. Hotham has been dubbed the "Powder Capital of Australia." Explore more than 790 acres of snow fields featuring everything from downhill runs to cross country trails and terrain parks. Hotham is perfect for expert or experienced skiers. The resort also offers sledding and snow tubing for those less interested in skiing.

Europe

The Alps of France, Italy, and Switzerland are the most well-known ski destinations in Europe; each features amazing resorts and spectacular views. Another front runner is the St. Moritz in Switzerland, one of the oldest winter resorts in the world and two-time home to the Winter Olympics. It’s so world-class, it has an airport and express train, is home to grand hotels and star-rated restaurants, and features outstanding leisure and sporting activities for its guests. Famous for its fresh snow and vertical slopes, St. Mortiz has been a favorite destination for centuries.

North America

There is no shortage of great ski destinations in North America, many of which are ranked as some of the very best in the world. From Colorado, Utah, and California in the U.S. to Whistler and Sun Peaks in Canada, it’s hard not to find an amazing set of slopes on this continent.

Outside of the well-known destinations, Jackson Hole in Wyoming seems to regularly top the list. It’s a majestic winter wonderland with more than 2,500 skiable acres. It averages more than 400 inches of snowfall each year too, so you know you’ll have fresh powder when you hit the slopes. While it has some expert-level runs, there are plenty of beginner and intermediate routes available as well.

South America

While lesser-known for skiing than other continents, South America is home to an abundance of great options. The Andes Mountains are a popular spot as well as Chile and Argentina. Portillo, a remote destination designed to accommodate just 450 visitors at a time, is one of the best. It’s spread across 14,000 acres, so visitors are often found exploring nature on the slopes in peace.

If ski adventures are on your travel agenda this winter, consider purchasing a RoundTrip® insurance plan and adding optional protection for lost ski days or equipment rental. Protect your adventures, so you can focus on the fun!