- David Wood from Oregon in the U.S. set out on a solo motorcycle trip through Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego all the way to Ushuaia at "The End of the World!" Thanks for commenting that our Patagonia motorcycle rentals performed well for you, and that you enjoyed your trip, David!
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"A much belated review, our trip to Chile was in January 2020, just under the Covid wire. Eric and Christine were instrumental in having the bike portion of our adventure become a success. We were grateful to Christine for suggesting we include the Ruta de los Siete Lagos in Argentina in our agenda, and it was absolutely spectacular. Thanks to our contact in Pucon, all border crossings were seamless and we felt very supported with the route we had planned, our personal safety and the safety of the bike. We feel very fortunate to have had such a wonderful experience, especially in light of what happened worldwide shortly after our trip. Thanks to all, and here's hoping more adventures will follow!" |
-Andrea and Scott not only had a successful adventure ride on a BMW F800GS with our Patagonia Motorcycle Rentals, but they got an article about the trip published in the Canadian magazine, "Inside Motorcycles" (see the Feb/March 2021 issue.)
- Antoine de Braquilanges from France conquered Patagonia in early 2020 Self-Guided, and using one of our BMW F750GS Motorcycle Rentals in Patagonia. Folks, whether you're part of one of our groups, or taking on the challenge of Patagonia alone or with a few friends, ya just gotta see this place!
Ulli was exceptionally helpful whether with route suggestions, changing panniers, supplying pannier bags, new maps [and exceptionally fairly not charging me for a bracket which broke supporting one of the panniers when i returned the bike as he could see it was not due to a fall] as well as some very well received cold drinks on his porch when picking up and dropping off bikes!
-Barrett, Ireland, March 2017"
- Barrett and his friends are making us stand tall and proud with huge smiles after trip reports like this! Please remember though, Patagonia motorcycle rentals should be reserved 8-12+ months in advance, as the season sell out early. Barrett, we're glad you guys planned well ahead, and enjoyed your adventure ride: )
- Moments and photos like this one from Bastian Guenther are a treasured part of any "Self-Guided Fly & Ride The Patagonia Experience" trip on our BMW GS rentals. We're just glad you finished this tough ride safely, Bastian. Knew very well that Patagonia would make the trip an excellent one for you.
"If you’re considering to rent through RIDE Adventures – do it! We rented an F700GS in Chile back in November and had the best experience from beginning to end – everyone we talked to was so helpful and answered to our questions in a very short time. Before our trip Eric was very helpful with every question we had and made us feel really great about everything. When we got to the rental place outside Pucon we were met by Ulli, who took his time to get us started with the bike and gave us all the necessary information about both the bike, the different route options, border crossing and so on. The bike was great for our 2-up ride and worked perfectly without any problems. Ulli had even considered giving us a bike that was a bit better geared for riding 2-up – a more comfy back seat and larger side cases, which we really appreciated. All in all, it was an excellent experience renting through the RIDE Adventures :)"
- Casper and Sarah from Denmark set up a Self-Guided "Fly & RIDE The Best of Northern Patagonia!" adventure with us, and apparently enjoyed what they discovered. Glad for it, Casper, so come on back for more riding in the Andes sometime : )
- David and Marina Belton enjoyed the variety of riding in Patagonia, from the tight, valley-lined roads to the wide open spaces on our "Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego & Ushuaia!" Self-Guided Motorcycle Trip Package. Come again, and thanks for sharing!
- Dominic Ginder and his father, Bob, made excellent use of 16 days of riding time with their Motorcycle Rentals in Patagonia. Dominic, you're correct as well about future plans for Croatia. So much to explore by motorcycle!
"FYI, I got back to Uvalde Texas yesterday afternoon. It was a great trip, I would sum it up as successful. The hotels, restaurants, and bike you choose were the best. The route and scenery was unbelievable. The weather was a bigger obstacle than I expected as were some of the roads. Nothing really difficult but 2700 miles was a challenge. Did I tell you that I celebrated my 70th birthday during the ride? Also I met lots of interesting people. I’m headed to Colorado to ski in ten days. And then???
- Congratulations to Ed Carnes from Texas for celebrating his 70th year with a successful solo Self-Guided "Fly & RIDE Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego & Ushuaia" trip! We sometimes wonder if some riders have read too much about the drama of Patagonia's conditions and are turned away as a result. Yes, winds and conditions can be tough sometimes, but Ed just showed us all how to do it: Be patient, keep at it, ride smart without showing off for your friends, and most careful, experienced dual sport riders can enjoy some of the world's best riding safely. This photo taken and recognized as the spot where RIDE Adventures was born by the simple thought "more people need to experience this." Ed had a few clouds that day, but when that sun cracks and the waters turn bright blue ... oh what a site.
La moto gs 1200 lc estaba en perfecto estado, casi nueva y con el neumatico trasero nuevo.
Gracias por vuestro buen trabajo"
- For those who haven't practiced their Spanish since high school, Victor Vivaracho (from Spain) is very happy with how his Patagonia Motorcycle Rental experience with RIDE Adventures went. (Approx: "The trip was perfect. The BMW R1200GS LC was in perfect condition, almost new and with a new rear tire. Thanks for your good work.") Glad you enjoyed, Victor!
-The epitome of adventure riding, Fabricio and Quel from Brazil flew into the face of the Coronavirus situation, and made the best out of their Self-Guided Fly & RIDE The Best of Northern Patagonia package. What an amazing time in our world history to carry out such a trip, congrats, Fabricio!
Everything went smooth, thank you for the guide notes and the maps you have provided, which led us to some of the most amazing places we’ve ever seen, and also kept us safe! We had absolutely no problem whatsoever, bike, staff everything was great."
- Flaviu Dan from Romania was inspired enough by his customized Self-Guided "Fly & RIDE The Patagonia Experience" on a BMW F700GS that he just reached out about a year later to share. With a photo and words that summarize the trip, we are SO glad you enjoyed, Flaviu! That feeling of freedom and exploration of the beautiful Patagonia region puts a huge smile on lots of Riders' faces :)
- Nothing puts a bigger smile on our faces than comments like these from George Mulligan, on the heels of his "Self-Guided, Truck Supported Full Patagonia Adventure." Thanks again, George!
"We just returned last night from Rio de Janeiro where we spent the last week of our vacation. Our motorcycle trip was an incredible adventure. I have learned that riding on gravel can have many different meanings. Just when I thought I was getting really good at that, I had an intimate experience with an Argentinian ripio !
- Hal and Natasa from Canada booked well in advance for their motorcycle rental on a Self-Guided journey through Patagonia. Even a simple flat tire becomes a story and fond memory on these adventures, and we raise a glass of Chilean Carménère to you both!
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive through Santiago, Chile to either Osorno or Pucón - YOUR ADVENTURE BEGINS!
Whether you’re taking extra time to explore the capital city of Santiago or just flying through, riders need to arrive in Osorno or Pucón before your actual 1st day of riding is scheduled. (Your Representative can help you choose between your 2 starting location options of Osorno or Pucón.) Intra-Chile flights can be booked through www.latam.com or www.skyairline.cl (Santiago/SCL to Osorno/ZOS or Temuco/ZCO, and then from Punta Arenas/PUQ at the end.) Hopefully you've allowed some time to relax and get adjusted before the riding part of your adventure begins, so be sure to request some extra hotel nights on the front end of your trip if time allows for it.
You'll be in contact with our Fleet Manager prior to your arrival, with time to make some minor adjustments and safety fittings to the ADV rental bike waiting for you. Once papers and such are out of the way and you're feeling fit and ready to go with the included luggage options, it's time to start riding into the heart of Patagonia!
Day 2 – Osorno or Pucón, Chile to Villa La Angostura, Argentina – 162 or 383km
Due to the wild series of inlets and land formations that make up the coast of southern Chile, this trip heads east up into the Andes Mountains before going further south into Patagonia. Passing through Parque Nacional Puyehue and later Nahuel Huapi, it’s going to be a fantastic first day’s ride to Villa La Angostura. Riders who start in Pucón can ride the famous "Ruta de 7 Lagos" or "7 Lakes Route" on the way. Settling in for the night, your first Argentine asado (barbeque) in this lively sets a rider up for even greater routes and scenery ahead.
Day 3 – Villa La Angostura to Trevelin, Argentina – 389km
Start super early if you plan to ride the "Circuito Chico," a one-hour loop through Llao Llao to the west of Bariloche, stopping for a photo-op with a local St. Bernhard named "Che" who overlooks this scenic area. Leaving Bariloche, most of the trucks and traffic will take the obvious Route 40 south, but we suggest you enjoy a detour through Parque Nacional Los Alerces just to the west. Sweeping sandy turns through the “Fitzroya” trees (cousin to the Redwoods found in California and the tallest trees in all of South America,) beautiful lakes and mountains guide riders through the national park. Positioned to cross back into Chile the next day, how did you enjoy the gravel or "ripio" as it's called here?
Day 4 – Trevelin to Puyuhaupi, Chile – 246km
Today marks the start of your ride down the Carretera Austral (Highway to the South) and what many folks agree is some of the best riding anywhere in the world. First crossing the Futaleufú River, this means passing near Parque Nacional Corcovado, one of very few privately owned land preserves in the world, arranged as such by the late Doug Tompkins, founder of The North Face and Esprit clothing brands.
Heading further south on the Carretera (formerly called the "Ruta Agosto Pinochet,") rain is likely before arriving in the town of Puyuhaupi, but such conditions only add to the atmosphere and adventurous feeling of Patagonia. With the gigantic Nalca Plants lining the road, glaciers to the left, waterfalls all around, and the rainforest to be enjoyed, this is unforgettable riding.
Day 5 - Puyuhuapi to Coihaique, Chile - 224km
If you're going to get rain on this trip, it'll likely be here in the Queulat Rainforest in this stunning valley full of switchbacks and unforgettable scenery. Even the most "reserved" personalities tend to burst a bit in this section, as every turn reveals a new view of the precious Patagonia we've grown to love. Waterfalls that cascade down from a few hundred meters high and all the bright green forestry full of the gigantic Nalca plants of Patagonia await you.
Day 6 – Coihaique to Puerto Tranquilo, Chile – 225km
Patagonia riding, this is it! Just because the scenery got better these past couple of days, that doesn’t mean it can’t get even better still…
The plant life and rain makes for an amazing atmosphere though with snow-capped mountains, rivers and waterfalls, and in the right season, salmon spawning in the River Cisnes.
After Reserva Nacional Cerro Castillo and its sharp mountain peaks, you’ll get your first glimpses of Lago General Carrera, and if the sun is out, another site never to be forgotten. Glacier fed waters reflect blue light which makes the water bright blue, and combined with more snow-capped mountains in the background, this is one incredible ride into Puerto Tranquilo. If arriving early enough, opportunities for fishing, boat tours of the nearby Marble Caves, and canopy tours are possible.
Day 7 – REST DAY in Puerto Tranquilo, Chile
A rest day in the Puerto Tranquilo area is chosen for a couple of reasons. First, Patagonia makes for some tough and exhausting riding, and second, because you probably won’t want to leave the Puerto Tranquilo area! Being so far "off the beaten path” at this point, varying emotions about seclusion and normal lives are bound to set in. With activities like boat tours, fly-fishing, horseback riding, canopy tours, and river rafting on the Rio Baker, be as active as you like on this rest day. On the other hand, if you really feel you want to ride a little this day, the fabulous "Patagonia Park," one of the late Doug Tompkin's conservation efforts is right near by with plenty of guanacos bouncing around the lodge Valle Chacabuco.
Day 8 - Puerto Tranquilo to Los Antiguos, Argentina – 175km
Leaving this spot about only about 50m/80km from the Pacific Ocean, the ride slithers along the shores of Lago General Carrera with its blue beauty encased in rock walls with fantastic scenery all the way back into Argentina. Now get ready for the wind! As Pacific air rolls across the Andes, it typically rushes down the eastern side of the mountains in quite a hurry, so this can be a challenging day of riding.
Day 9– Los Antiguos to near Gobernador Gregores, Argentina – 414km
Get ready to come even further alive with what could be some exhilarating winds today, and part of why Ruta 40 is so famous! Extremely remote territories, very few fueling points, and the wide-open “pampas” region of Argentina again add to the variety in this adventure. Guanacos (like a small llama, indigenous to South America and this region in particular) will be dancing around the road all day long, so take extra caution on sections like this and never trust that one of these guanacos won't suddenly jump out into your path.
Day 10 – Gobernador Gregores to El Calafate, Argentina - 330km
Still out in the Argentine wild, now tilt back to the west with the Andes in site today. Passing Lago Cardiel and Lago Viedma, the piercing peaks of Mount Fitz Roy and the town of El Chaltén will be seen in the distance. Passing Lago Argentino and nearing the town of El Calafate, enjoy this lively town with great shopping and dining options, setting riders up for one of the greatest highlights in all of Patagonia the next day.
Day 11 - REST DAY in El Calafate for Perito Moreno Glacier: 160km
A rest day with the option to ride to yet another incredible site in Patagonia: The Perito Moreno Glacier! Until 2022, one of only 3 known glaciers in the world that was actually still growing, huge chunks of ice still may fall off before you, crashing into the bay below. The twisties on the way into the main parking area are fun enough to make it worth the ride, and optional boat tours and glacier trekking experiences in this incredible mountain setting are possible.
Day 12 – El Calafate to Cerro Sombrero, Chile – 460km
Day 13 – Cerro Sombrero to Ushuaia, Argentina – 414km
At last, your journey brings you to Ushuaia—the legendary “Fin del Mundo,” or “End of the World!”
This is a moment countless adventure riders have dreamed of, and now it’s right in front of you. As you near this iconic destination—just 1,000 km from Antarctica—memories of the incredible journey behind you thus far might rustle certain emotions.
Expect strong, sweeping winds throughout most of the day, until about 100 km from Ushuaia, when the landscape transforms dramatically. The final stretch takes you through the breathtaking scenery of Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego—a fitting finale to an unforgettable ride.
Once in town, enjoy a well-earned evening, likely centered around a fresh seafood dinner and maybe pick up a few postcards to send from “The End of the World.”
Day 14 – Ushuaia to Rio Grande – 215km
Riders have a few great ways to enjoy this half-day in Ushuaia. A morning excursion to Harberton Island may be possible to see the famous penguins—a roughly 5-hour tour by boat and bus—while others might choose to ride a bit farther to Bahía Lapataia in Tierra del Fuego National Park. There, you’ll find a memorable photo opportunity at the end of Ruta 3, an incredible 17,848 kilometers from Alaska!
In the park you can also stop by the southernmost post office in the world to send a postcard from the End of the World—or simply take the morning to relax and soak in Ushuaia.
In the afternoon, ride a short distance back to the Atlantic coast, arriving in the town of Río Grande—perfectly positioned for tomorrow’s border crossing back into Chile.
Day 15 - Rio Grande to Punta Arenas, Chile - 230/425km (plus ferry crossing)
The journey heads back into Chile over the windswept expanse of Tierra del Fuego, either through Porvenir or Punta Delgada depending on ferry schedules and weather conditions. Arriving in Punta Arenas, Chile’s southernmost non-military city, you’ll officially be able to say you’ve traveled “as far south as possible” in both Argentina and Chile on this ride. This lively port town, perched on the edge of the Strait, offers plenty of shopping, dining, and local charm—perfectly setting the stage for the ultimate finale of your adventure.
Day 16 - Punta Arenas to Torres del Paine National Park - 330km
With the Strait of Magellan glinting to your right and the southernmost peaks of the Andes rising ahead, riders will roll into the vibrant, tourist-friendly town of Puerto Natales by midday—perfect for refueling both bikes and appetites. This thriving little hub owes much of its energy to its location at the gateway to one of Patagonia’s crown jewels: Torres del Paine National Park.
Our itinerary allows for plenty of time to explore the park, giving everyone a chance to see its legendary landscapes and allow time for the clouds to clear iconic features like Los Cuernos (“The Horns”)—sights that photos can never truly capture. Be sure to ride out to Glacier Grey and wind around the turquoise waters of Lago Pehoé, or gear yourself appropriately and plan accordingly for some of the iconic hiking within the park.
Day 17 - Torres del Paine to Puerto Natales or Punta Arenas - 75 or 318km (TBD)
With this final day available to savor Torres del Paine National Park and ride among the guanacos, make your way toward your bike's drop-off location comfortably, with this incredible ADV riding experience under your kidney belt! Congratulations to anyone who has had the chance to conquer Patagonia on 2 wheels.
Day 18 - Departure from Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales (TBD)
With literally "mountains more" riding experience officially behind you, this incredible journey has reached its end unless you've requested more rental time with plans to ride back north (inquire about discounts to do so.) Even if the riding is over, the memories will stay for a lifetime, as this the kind of experience you’ll never, ever forget.
Take time to sort through the hundreds—maybe thousands—of photos you captured, share farewells with the new friends you’ve made, and most importantly, smile with pride. You’ve just achieved something truly special on two wheels.
Congratulations on an epic riding accomplishment!
2019+ Honda CB500x
Another recent assertion by Honda Motorcycles into the Adventure Riding world, riders seeking a compact-sized adventure bike have been raving about the CB500X. With plenty of power emanating from the parallel-twin engine, and an agile disposition, everything from paved twisties to gravel, dirt, and sand can be conquered with this fun adventuring option. Starting in 2019 with it's 19 inch wheel, this bike has proven itself for us in places like Patagonia, and will be a great option for riders exploring beyond.
- Wet Weight - 430lbs
- Seat Height - 32.7 inches
- Fuel Capacity - 4.6 gal
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32.7 in
430lbs
4.6 gal
471cc Parallel Twin
BMW R1250GS
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33.5/34.3 in
549lb/249kg
5.3gal / 20 L
1254 cc
BMW R1250GS Adventure
BMW R1250GS Adventure – Ultimate Long-Distance ADV Touring
The BMW R1250GS Adventure is built for riders who demand the most from their machine. With a massive 30L fuel tank, long-travel suspension, and unmatched rider comfort, it's the top choice for remote, rugged riding across South America. Ideal for experienced adventure travelers tackling routes like Patagonia, the Andes, and beyond.
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35.0" / 35.8" (890 mm / 910 mm)
591 lbs 268 kg
7.9 gal / 29.9 L
1,254 cc
BMW R1300GS | Adventure Motorcycle
The Next Evolution of Adventure: Introducing the BMW R 1300 GS. BMW has redefined the large touring enduro with the all-new R 1300 GS. This machine embodies intelligent design, prioritizing a significant weight reduction alongside a formidable 145 hp boxer engine and a substantial 1300 cc displacement. The result is handling that has to be experienced to be believed. Don't let its refined simplicity fool you – the R 1300 GS boasts a more comprehensive suite of standard equipment than any GS before it. Discover the technical mastery and endless possibilities for personalization below.
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33.4 in
502 lb / 227.7 kg
5 gal / 18.9 L
1,300 cc
CF Moto MT800
- Wet Weight - 509 lbs
- Seat Height - 32.5 inches
- Fuel Capacity - 5 gal
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32.5 in
509 lbs
5 gal
800cc
Moto Morini X-Cape 650 | Adventure Motorcycle
The Moto Morini X-Cape 650 is a capable adventure bike built for both asphalt and off-road exploration.
Its sturdy steel trellis frame, paired with a 649cc parallel-twin engine producing 60 horsepower, delivers a smooth and responsive ride. Premium Marzocchi suspension and Brembo brakes with Bosch ABS ensure confident handling on any terrain.
Advanced safety and comfort features include a 7-inch TFT display, full LED lighting, an adjustable windscreen, and backlit controls for an enhanced riding experience.
With its blend of performance, versatility, and rider-focused design, the X-Cape 650 is ready for any adventure.
- Wet Weight - 514 lbs
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Seat Height - 33.26 inches
- Fuel Capacity - 4.8 gal
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33.26 in
514 lbs
4.8 gal
649 cc
Triumph Tiger 1200 XCx
- Wet weight - 570 lbs. (259 kg)
- Seat height - 32.9 or 33.7" (837 or 857 mm)
- Fuel Capacity - 5.2 gal (20 Liters)
- Displacement - 1215cc's
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32.8 to 33.6 in
572 lb
5.2 gal
1215 cc
Triumph Tiger 850 Sport
The Triumph Tiger 850 Sport is a versatile and confidence-inspiring motorcycle, perfect for riders looking to explore paved routes and light gravel with ease. With its smooth 888cc triple-cylinder engine, upright riding position, and refined road manners, it’s ideal for everything from weekend getaways to longer road tours. Cast wheels, adjustable seat height, and rider modes (Road and Rain) make it approachable for a wide range of riders. This model is best suited for street and light ADV touring—not technical off-road terrain.
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32.28 - 33.07 in (820-840 mm)
423 lb (192 kg)
5.28 US gal (20 litres)
888 cc
Triumph Tiger 900 Rally
Triumph Tiger 900 Rally – Midweight ADV with Serious Off-Road Capability
The Triumph Tiger 900 Rally is built for riders who want true adventure versatility. With a 21” front wheel, long-travel adjustable suspension, and off-road-focused ride modes, this bike is ready for the rougher routes of South America. Powered by an 888cc triple engine, it delivers smooth, responsive power both on pavement and rugged trails. Ideal for riders who want a lighter, more agile alternative to big-bore ADV bikes—without sacrificing performance or comfort. Great for exploring Patagonia’s remote regions, Andean passes, or any mixed-surface journey.
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33.86/34.65 in (860/880 mm)
503 lb (228 kg)
5.28 US gal (20 litres)
888 cc
VOGE DS900X | Adventure Motorcycle
Introducing the DS900X: Your Passport to Uncharted Territory. Building on VOGE's adventure legacy, the DS900X steps up as the leader of the pack. Just like the acclaimed DS525X, this machine is engineered to capture the hearts of riders seeking true mid-displacement adventure. Offering an exceptional blend of top-tier components, advanced technology, and exhilarating power, the DS900X is born for long-haul exploration. Whether you're riding solo or two-up with gear, this motorcycle is the perfect partner for chasing your wildest adventures.
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32.5 in / 825 mm
474 lbs / 215 kg
4.5 gal / 17 liters
895 cc