FAQ

Patagonia Tour — Argentina & Chile

What makes the Patagonia Tour special?
This tour is designed for riders who want to experience remote Patagonia, the Carretera Austral, the famous Ruta 40, glaciers, fjords, mountain passes, and the legendary ride to Ushuaia, known as the “End of the World.”

How long is the Patagonia Tour and how far do we ride?
The Patagonia Tour runs for 14 days and covers approximately 3,460 km through southern Argentina and Chile. This had be customised (more days or less kilometres) for group bookings.  

Where does the Patagonia Tour start and finish?
The tour starts in San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina, and finishes in Ushuaia, Argentina.

What is the best time of year to do the Patagonia Motorcycle Tour?
The best time to ride Patagonia is generally from November to March, during the Southern Hemisphere spring and summer. These months usually offer longer daylight hours, milder temperatures, and better access to Patagonia’s remote roads, mountain passes, national parks, and ferry routes. Patagonia weather is always changeable, so riders should still be prepared for wind, rain, cold mornings, and sudden weather shifts.

Can I ride Patagonia in winter?
Winter is not recommended for this type of motorcycle tour. From approximately June to August, snow, ice, cold temperatures, shorter days, and limited access to some remote roads can make riding difficult or unsafe.

What weather should I expect in Patagonia?
Expect changing weather. Patagonia can bring sunshine, rain, strong wind, cold temperatures, and fast-moving clouds all in the same day. Riders should prepare for four-season conditions, especially near glaciers, lakes, fjords, mountain passes, and Tierra del Fuego.

Is Patagonia very windy for motorcycle riding?
Yes. Wind can be one of the biggest riding challenges in Patagonia. Riders should be prepared for strong crosswinds, especially on open roads, steppe areas, bridges, coastal sections, and exposed mountain routes.

What temperature should I expect during the Patagonia Tour?
Temperatures vary depending on altitude, wind, rain, and location. Bariloche and northern Patagonia may feel mild, while southern Patagonia, glaciers, and Tierra del Fuego can feel much colder, especially in the morning and evening. Wind chill on a motorcycle can make temperatures feel significantly lower.

Is this tour suitable for adventure riders?
Yes. This is a true adventure motorcycle tour with long riding days, remote areas, changing weather, border crossings, paved roads, gravel sections, and support logistics throughout the journey.

How difficult is the Patagonia Motorcycle Tour?
The tour is best suited to confident riders with experience on long-distance motorcycle trips. Riders should be comfortable with changing weather, gravel or uneven road sections, strong wind, remote areas, and full days in the saddle.

Do I need off-road experience for the Patagonia Tour?
You do not need to be an expert off-road rider, but some gravel-road experience is helpful. The route may include unpaved sections, roadworks, loose surfaces, and remote roads where riders need to stay relaxed and ride at a controlled pace. Should a rider become too uncomfortable with the riding conditions, he will have the option to have his motorcycle put on the trailer and ride in the support vehicle until the conditions become more favorable. 

How many hours do we ride each day?
Daily riding times vary depending on the route, weather, road conditions, border crossings, ferry schedules, and photo stops. Some days are shorter and scenic, while others are longer travel days through remote areas.

What are the main highlights of the Patagonia Tour?
Highlights include Los Alerces National Park, Chilean Patagonia, the Marble Chapels, Lago General Carrera, Perito Moreno Glacier, Torres del Paine National Park, the Strait of Magellan ferry crossing, Tierra del Fuego, and Ushuaia.

Does the tour visit Ushuaia?
Yes. The Patagonia Tour finishes in Ushuaia, Argentina, one of the most iconic motorcycle destinations in the world and often called the “End of the World.”

Does the tour include the Carretera Austral?
Yes. The route includes sections of Chilean Patagonia and the Carretera Austral, one of South America’s most beautiful adventure riding routes.

Does the tour include Ruta 40?
Yes. Ruta 40 is one of Argentina’s most legendary roads, and it forms part of the wider Patagonia riding experience.

Does the tour visit Perito Moreno Glacier?
Yes. Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the major highlights of the Patagonia Tour and one of the most famous natural attractions in Argentina.

Does the tour visit Torres del Paine National Park?
Yes. Torres del Paine National Park is one of the key scenic highlights on the Chilean side of Patagonia.

Are there ferry crossings on the Patagonia Tour?
Yes. The route includes ferry logistics, including the Strait of Magellan crossing. Ferry schedules can depend on weather and operational conditions.

Will we cross borders between Argentina and Chile?
Yes. The Patagonia Tour crosses between Argentina and Chile. Border-crossing documents for the motorcycle are included as part of the tour logistics.

What documents do I need for the Patagonia Tour?
Riders should bring a valid passport, valid motorcycle license, International Driving Permit if required, travel insurance documents, booking confirmation, credit card, and any visa documents required for their nationality.

Do I need a visa for Argentina or Chile?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Riders should check entry requirements for Argentina and Chile before booking flights and before the tour departure date.

What is included in the Patagonia Tour?
The tour includes an English- and Spanish-speaking motorcycle guide, selected hotels and lodges with breakfast, a CF450 or similar motorcycle, border-crossing documents, support vehicle with mechanic, snacks and drinks, selected dinners, ride-day lunches, selected park entrance fees, ferry crossing, and satellite phone support.

What is not included?
Flights, visas, fuel, alcohol, personal expenses, motorcycle security deposit, optional damage reduction insurance, and activities not listed as included are not included.

Is fuel included in the Patagonia Tour?
Fuel is not listed as included. Riders should budget separately for fuel during the trip.

Are flights included in the tour price?
No. International and domestic flights are not included. Riders need to arrange their own flights to Bariloche and from Ushuaia unless otherwise arranged separately.

Are hotels included?
Yes. The tour includes selected hotels and lodges with breakfast.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included with accommodation. The tour also includes selected dinners, ride-day lunches, snacks, and drinks. Alcohol and meals not listed as included are not included. For more detail see whats included and whats not in the respective tour itinerary. 

Is there a support vehicle?
Yes. The Patagonia Tour includes a support vehicle with mechanic support, tools, snacks, drinks, and logistical assistance.

Is there a mechanic on the tour?
Yes. The support setup includes mechanical assistance, helping riders travel with more confidence in remote areas.

Is satellite phone support included?
Yes. Satellite phone support is included, which is especially important in remote parts of Patagonia where mobile reception may be limited.

What motorcycle is included?
The tour includes a CF450 or similar motorcycle.

Can I upgrade my motorcycle?
Yes. Motorcycle upgrades may be available for an additional cost, depending on availability and tour conditions.

Can I request a single room?
Yes. A single-room supplement is available for riders who prefer private accommodation.

Can I bring a passenger?
Yes. Pillion passenger options are available for an additional cost. Riders should be comfortable handling the motorcycle with a passenger, especially in wind and on longer riding days. Subject to space availability, pillions passengers can ride in the support vehicle if a break is required. 

Is the Patagonia Tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes. Solo riders can join the group tour. This is a good option for riders who want the experience of a major Patagonia motorcycle expedition without having to organize the route, support vehicle, hotels, ferry logistics, or border paperwork alone.

Is this tour suitable for beginner riders?
This tour is not ideal for complete beginners. Patagonia is remote, windy, and weather can change quickly. Riders should have solid motorcycle control, road confidence, and experience with long riding days.

What type of motorcycle gear should I bring?
Bring full adventure touring gear suitable for cold, wind, rain, and changing conditions. Waterproof and windproof protection is essential.

What should I pack for the Patagonia Motorcycle Tour?
Pack for cold, wind, rain, and changing weather. Patagonia is famous for dramatic landscapes, but conditions can shift quickly between sun, strong wind, rain, and cold temperatures, especially near glaciers, mountain passes, fjords, and Tierra del Fuego.

Recommended packing items include:

• Full-face or modular motorcycle helmet
• Waterproof motorcycle jacket with armor
• Waterproof motorcycle pants with armor
• Thermal base layers
• Fleece, down, or insulated mid-layer
• Waterproof motorcycle gloves
• Warm winter riding gloves
• Lightweight riding gloves for milder days
• Waterproof adventure or touring boots
• Neck warmer or buff
• Rain gear, even if your riding suit is waterproof
• Sunglasses or tinted visor
• Clear visor for low-light conditions
• Moisture-wicking riding socks
• Casual clothes for evenings
• Warm jacket for non-riding activities
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Swimwear for hotels or hot springs, if available
• Personal medication
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Camel back water
• Camera or phone with extra storage
• Power bank and charging cables
• Passport and required travel documents
• Motorcycle license and International Driving Permit, if required
• Travel insurance documents
• Credit card and some cash for personal expenses
• Small dry bag for documents and electronics

Avoid overpacking. The tour includes support logistics, but riders should still travel with compact, practical luggage that is easy to move between hotels and support vehicles. Soft bags or duffel-style luggage are usually more convenient than large hard suitcases.

Do I need waterproof gear for Patagonia?
Yes. Waterproof gear is strongly recommended. Even during the best riding season, Patagonia can bring rain, road spray, wet ferry crossings, and cold wind.

Do I need heated gear for Patagonia?
Heated gear is not mandatory, but heated gloves, heated grips, or a heated vest can be useful for riders who feel the cold, especially in southern Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego.

Should I bring summer motorcycle gear?
Lightweight summer-only gear is not recommended as your main setup. Even on sunny days, wind chill and sudden weather changes can make Patagonia feel cold. A layered adventure suit is a better choice.

What is the best helmet for the Patagonia Tour?
A full-face or modular helmet is recommended. It should be comfortable for long riding days and offer good protection from wind, rain, dust, and cold air.

Should I bring a tinted visor or sunglasses?
Yes. Patagonia can have strong sun glare, especially near lakes, glaciers, and open roads. A tinted visor or sunglasses are useful, but riders should also bring a clear visor for cloudy days, rain, and low-light conditions.

What gloves should I pack?
Bring at least two pairs: waterproof warm gloves for cold and wet conditions, and lighter riding gloves for milder days. Glove liners can also be useful.

What boots are best for Patagonia?
Waterproof adventure or touring boots are recommended. They should provide ankle protection, comfort for walking, and enough weather resistance for rain, gravel, and cold conditions.

What luggage should I bring?
Soft waterproof duffel bags or compact soft luggage is a requirement whilst on tour (no hard body suitcases). Avoid oversized hard suitcases unless luggage transport conditions are confirmed in advance. A small waterproof day bag is useful for documents, electronics, medication, and layers.

Can I wash clothes during the tour?
Laundry may be available at some hotels, but it should not be assumed every day. Pack quick-dry clothing and enough base layers and socks for several riding days.

Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Riders are required to have travel insurance that covers personal accidents, sickness, and related travel risks. It is recommended to choose insurance that specifically covers motorcycle touring, emergency medical treatment, evacuation, trip interruption, and riding abroad.

Do I need motorcycle insurance?
The tour includes the relevant motorcycle documentation listed in the package. Optional damage reduction insurance may be available for an additional cost. Riders should confirm motorcycle insurance and security deposit conditions before departure.

Is there a motorcycle security deposit?
Yes. A motorcycle security deposit applies. Riders should confirm the amount, payment method, and damage policy before the tour.

Is there a minimum number of riders?
Yes. Departure is subject to six confirmed riders.

How early should I book the Patagonia Tour?
It is best to book early because Patagonia’s main season is short, and hotel availability in popular destinations can become limited during peak months.

Should I arrive before the tour starts?
Yes. Arriving at least one day before the tour begins is recommended. This gives you time to recover from travel, adjust to the time zone, check your gear, and attend any pre-tour briefing.

Should I book my return flight on the same day the tour ends?
It is usually better to book your return flight at least one day after the tour ends. Patagonia travel can be affected by weather, ferries, road conditions, and logistics, so an extra night provides more flexibility.

Is mobile phone coverage available during the tour?
Coverage may be limited or unavailable in remote parts of Patagonia. Riders should not rely on mobile service at all times. The tour includes satellite phone support for remote communication needs.

Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Wi-Fi may be available in many hotels, but speed and reliability can vary, especially in remote areas.

Can I take photos and videos during the tour?
Yes. Patagonia is one of the world’s most photogenic motorcycle destinations. Riders should bring a camera or smartphone with enough storage, extra batteries, waterproof protection, and secure mounts if they plan to film while riding.

Are drones allowed in Patagonia?
Drone rules vary by country, park, and local authority. Drones may be restricted or prohibited in national parks, border areas, and sensitive natural zones. Riders should check regulations before bringing a drone.

What money should I bring?
Bring a credit card and some cash (local currency or USD) for personal expenses, fuel, tips, drinks, optional activities, and small purchases. Access to ATMs may be limited in remote towns.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?
Dietary needs should be communicated before the tour. While many hotels and restaurants can help, options may be limited in remote areas.

Is Patagonia safe for motorcycle travel?
A guided tour with a professional route plan, support vehicle, border assistance, and mechanical support helps reduce risk. Riders should still ride defensively, follow guide instructions, respect weather conditions, and avoid riding beyond their comfort level.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The guide and support team will manage the route according to safety, road conditions, ferry schedules, and local information. Patagonia weather is part of the adventure, so flexibility is important.

What happens if I get tired during the tour?
Riders should communicate with the guide if they feel tired or uncomfortable. The support team can help assess options depending on the day’s route, location, and logistics.

Can I skip a riding day?
This may be possible depending on the route and support vehicle logistics, but it cannot always be guaranteed. Riders should discuss this with the guide during the tour.

Is the Patagonia Tour good for photography lovers?
Yes. This tour is excellent for photography, with glaciers, mountains, lakes, fjords, open roads, ferries, wildlife, national parks, and the final arrival in Ushuaia.

Who is the Patagonia Motorcycle Tour best for?
This tour is best for riders looking for a premium guided motorcycle adventure through one of the world’s most dramatic regions. It is ideal for riders who want remote landscapes, famous routes, challenging weather, support logistics, and the unforgettable ride to Ushuaia.

Why choose a guided Patagonia motorcycle tour instead of riding alone?
A guided tour saves riders the challenge of organizing motorcycles, hotels, border documents, ferry timing, route planning, mechanical support, and remote logistics. This allows riders to focus on the experience, the landscapes, and the riding.