- 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 in Santiago, Chile and then either Osorno or Pucón, Chile (depending on availability at the time of booking) - 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.
Day 2 – Osorno/Pucón, Chile to San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina – 239km
You'll be in contact with our Fleet Manager well before this date, and probably have your paperwork signed and your check-in process completed the day before. Riders are welcome to bring parts & accessories from home to customize the bike’s fit to your liking and assistance with anything you need is of the utmost importance, as safety is key to enjoyment and completion of the incredible journey ahead. Then it’s time to start riding into the heart of Patagonia!
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. Either way, passing through Parque Nacional Puyuhue and later Nahuel Huapi, it’s going to be a fantastic first day’s ride all the way in to where Bariloche sits along the lakeshore. Riders who start in Pucón can ride the famous "Ruta de 7 Lagos" or "7 Lakes Route" on the way to Bariloche. 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 – Bariloche to Trevelin, Argentina – 308km
Perhaps you'll start your day by riding 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
Just grip down and get through what could definitely be more pounding winds today, as this is 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, a fun town with great shopping, dining, and relaxation potential sets riders up for one of the greatest highlights in all of Patagonia the next day.
Day 11 - REST DAY in El Calafate (optional, but strongly encouraged visit to Perito Moreno Glacier: 160km)
It's important to rest once again, and there might be no better town to do so in. Just a short twisting ride in the morning leads riders to yet another incredible site in Patagonia: The Perito Moreno Glacier! One of only 3 known glaciers in the world that is still actually growing, huge chunks of ice will fall off before your eyes, crashing into the bay before you. As if this awesome sight isn’t enough, the rumbling sounds of ice cracking throughout the ice field will remain a definite part of Patagonia memories. Enjoy the remainder of the day around the town of El Calafate where shopping, crafts, culture and restaurants all await you.
Day 12 – El Calafate to Torres del Paine National Park – 379km
Circling back through the wide-open “pampas” of Argentina one more time, the goal is yet another stunning site on the Chilean side. Crossing the border at Paso Rio Don Guillermo, it might not appear that there’s anything in site; however, when approaching the middle of Torres del Paine National Park, riders will understand why this is a special place in Patagonia.
The famous Torres (Towers) and Los Cuernos (The Horns) of Torres del Paine National Park beg you to take a rest day and either hike or ride around the area to enjoy the beauty. From the south side of Los Cuernos, travelers can be found waiting to photograph that perfect sunrise where orange and pink hues radiate across this unforgettable mountain formation. Designated a World Biosphere Reserve in 1978 by UNESCO, photos might not even be necessary as the images will remain clear in traveler’s minds forever.
Day 13 – Torres del Paine N.P. to Cerro Sombrero, Chile – 454km
Finally, the Province and Island of Tierra del Fuego! Originally given that name by Ferdinand Magellan (meaning “Land of Fire”) because of the indigenous peoples' fires he thought he saw blazing before him, Magellan might have better named it “Land of Wind,” because you’re likely be inundated by it most of the day. Those who are skipping the ride to Ushuaia might finish shortly after in Punta Arenas. For those continuing to Ushuaia, plan on riding over to Punta Delgada in time to take the ferry across the Strait of Magellan and spend the night in Cerro Sombrero.
Day 14 – Cerro Sombrero to Ushuaia, Argentina – 414km
Finally, the “Fin del Mundo” or the “End of the World!”
As an adventure motorcycle rider, this destination has long been in your sites, and finally waits before you. Thoughts about the amazing journey that now rests behind you might sneak into the amazing anticipation that comes with riding to this point, only 700m/1000km from Antarctica!
Wide open wind blasts are still possible or likely throughout the day until about 100km before arriving in Ushuaia, at which point the scenery drastically improves while you ride through Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego. The ride will finish with plenty of photos at the gate to Ushuaia, and then go a bit further into the National Park Tierra del Fuego if you wish. There at Lapataia in the National Park awaits where you can seize the photo opportunity with a sign that truly marks the end of Ruta 3, just 17,848 kilometers from Alaska! Then treat yourself to a nice seafood dinner on the coast with plenty to laugh and smile about, looking back at the amazing journey behind...but not yet over.
Day 15 - REST DAY in Ushuaia, Argentina
Your trip might not have taken you to Antarctica, but that doesn’t mean you can’t see penguins up close before you leave! With reservations in advance and an early departure, you can be among the 80 people per day that are allowed to walk on the Harberton Estancia’s trail right along with the Magellanic Penguins. Those who prefer to just relax and enjoy the bustling town of Ushuaia may also visit the prison in town, which was once home to Argentina's worst criminals (Think: Alcatraz, and the climate that would make it difficult to escape.) Ushuaia is a nice place to visit though, and a day of rest is ultimately yours to enjoy as you wish, celebrating the riding challenges you bested thus far.
Day 16 - Ushuaia to Porvenir, Chile - 384km
With some variations on the return to Chile possible, enjoy Tierra del Fuego to its fullest and soak up the fantastic riding in this region on the way back to Punta Arenas. Guanacos and other challenges of the road we ride will ensure that riders need to stay alert, as this amazing trip comes to an end.
Day 17 - Porvenir to Punta Arenas, Chile or Puerto Natales (depending on availability at the time of booking)
How is that possible that we have such options? Ahh, the challenges of riding around Tierra del Fuego. Decisions on how to route yourself might be based on weather conditions, as they pertain to the ferry services and options available that day. (Separate notes on how to strategize for all of this are included with each booking.) Nonetheless, this is all part of the fun and variety that make up a motorycle trip that involves "Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego & Ushuaia!"
Day 18 - Departure from Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales, Chile (depending on availability at the time of booking)
With nothing short of an incredible motorcycle trip experience behind you, it seems that all good events in life still must come to an end. The memories, however, will last forever. This is a trip that we promise, you'll never, ever forget. Start arranging and editing the hundreds or thousands of photos you probably took, say goodbye to some new friends you've made along the way. Most importantly, SMILE with a sense of satisfaction, because this was a major riding accomplishment. Congrats!
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
X
32.7 in
430lbs
4.6 gal
471cc Parallel Twin
BMW F750GS
X
32.1 in
493lb / 223kg
4 gal / 15 L
853 cc
BMW F850GS
X
33.9 in
504lb / 229kg
4 gal / 15 L
853 cc
BMW R1250GS
X
33.5/34.3 in
549lb/249kg
5.3gal / 20 L
1254 cc
CF Moto MT800
- Wet Weight - 509 lbs
- Seat Height - 32.5 inches
- Fuel Capacity - 5 gal
X
32.5 in
509 lbs
5 gal
800cc
CFMOTO 450MT
The CFMOTO 450MT is built extra tough to take you beyond where the road ends. This adventure bike brings multi-terrain capability and versatility to CFMOTO's adventure touring category. Now lighter in weight, it boasts responsive power and torque from its acclaimed engine, making it perfect for the adventurous rider.
Smartly equipped for dirt, the 450MT is designed to handle a variety of terrains with ease. Whether you're exploring rugged trails or enjoying long-distance touring, the 450MT is perfectly crafted to meet the needs of those who seek adventure.
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31.4 in/32.2 in | 800 mm/820 mm
386 lbs | 175 kg
4.6 gal | 17.6 liter
449.5 cc
Honda Africa Twin CRF1100 (2020+)
X
33.5/34.3 in
505 lb
5.0 gal
1084 cc
Honda Transalp
The Honda Transalp has long been a legend in Europe, and it’s finally making its way to North America. Designed to expand your exploring horizons, this adventure bike excels around town, on the highway, in the mountains, and on unpaved, less-traveled roads. Its perfectly balanced size ensures comfort, maneuverability, and compactness, while the new 755cc Unicam® parallel-twin engine showcases Honda's engineering excellence.
With features like selectable riding modes and a wide range of available accessories, the Transalp is ready for any adventure. Its rally-bike-inspired aerodynamic bodywork provides just enough wind and weather protection. Smooth, tough, agile, and smart, the Transalp is the dream machine many have longed for—and now that dream has come true.
X
33.7 in | 855.98 mm
459 lbs | 208 kg
4.5 gal | 17 liter
755 cc
Yamaha Ténéré 700
This highly-anticipated "masterpiece of value" has finally been released, giving dual sport adventure riders around the world one more incredible middle-weight adventure bike to choose from. With 73+ smooth, linear horsepower pouring through one of most beautiful exhaust notes out there, the Ténéré 700's unique anti-squat design puts that power into the ground, instead of into the rear shock. The result is one of the best handling, adventure bikes on the market, all backed by typical Yamaha-reliability. Take this agile machine on short trips or long, paved twisties or dirt roads, and know that this may be as close to the "perfect" adventure bike as we have seen in a while. With an attractive entry price, and corresponding rental rate, we expect the number of Ténéré 700's in our fleet operations to grow steadily and remain a factor for a long time.
X
34.4 in / 874mm
452 lb / 205kg
4.2 gal
689 cc