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Self-Guided Tour: "Fly & Ride The Patagonia Experience" Package

"Fly & Ride The Patagonia Experience" Motorcycle Tour - 14 Days

"Fly & Ride The Patagonia Experience" Motorcycle Tour - 14 Days

  • Torres-del-Paine-Motorcycle
  • Group_motorcycle_trip_Chile
  • Carretera_Austral_motorcycle
  • Ride-Chile
When motorcycle riders ask us "which is the best motorcycle tour?" it's pretty difficult not to think of this one. And if you're the type of rider who doesn't want to join other groups, or if you just want the ultimate in convenience for yourself and a couple of friends to RIDE in Patagonia, this is an excellent option to see all the classic routes and highlights!

"The Patagonia Experience" route takes riders through the absolute highlights of Patagonia, all in just 14 days (including arrival and departure days.) Torres del Paine National Park, the Perito Moreno Glacier, the Carretera Austral, incredible Andes Mountain riding and more all packed into one amazing motorcycle trip! We know that everyone is pressed for time these days, and this tour considers that by consolidating an amazing amount of riding variety into such a short time. Still, it's an itinerary that we've found most riders can keep up with and enjoy quite comfortably.

Please note that you can run this route from either the north or the south. Which is better? The answer is: "Both!" With no real advantage to riding either direction, this trip will seem to be more amazing every day, and as Rider Magazine declared in August 2013, "I feel I’ve seen the best of Patagonia." 

 Contact us for more tour information.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive in Santiago, Chile and then Osorno or Pucón in the northern parts of Chilean Patagonia. 

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 on or before this date, as the itinerary shows a 1st riding day to follow. Your intra-Chile flights can be booked through www.lan.com or www.skyairline.cl. (Flights are Santiago (SCL) to Osorno (ZOS) or Temuco (ZCO) and then Punta Arenas (PUQ) to Santiago at the end of the trip.) We can help you decide whether your trip should start in Osorno or Pucón, which might ultimately be a decision based on motorcycle availability at the time you make your reservation. Either location may be sold out at any time in this popular area for our bikes, so please always reserve as far in advance as possible. Seriously, 9+ months in advance is not too early!

Day 2 – Osorno/Pucón, Chile to Bariloche, Argentina – 239km

It’s time to start riding into the heart of Patagonia! 

After checking you in on your motorcycle and making sure you're comfortable with everything, the excitement for the trip ahead starts to build even more. Any unique parts & accessories from home can be brought 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. At some point on this day though, what might have been months of waiting will finally come to an end, as your RIDE into Patagonia begins!

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. Riders starting from Osorno will be passing through Parque Nacional Puyuhue and later Nahuel Huapi, for a fantastic first day’s ride. Riders starting in Pucón will have a few more hours of riding today, but get to start with the famous "7 Lakes Route" (Ruta de 7 Lagos) going through San Martin de Los Andes. Settling down into the ski-resort town of Bariloche for the night and perhaps your first Argentine asado (barbeque) in this lively town sets you up for even greater riding ahead.

Day 3 – Bariloche to Trevelin, Chile – 308km

Before leaving Bariloche, be sure to ride the "Circuito Chico" through Llao Llao just to the west! Then, as most of the trucks and traffic will take the obvious Route 40 south, but you might want to follow the Road Book and enjoy a detour through Parque Nacional Los Alerces just to the west. Sweeping sandy turns through the “Fitzroy” trees (cousin to the Redwoods found in California and the tallest trees in all of South America,) beautiful lakes and mountains guide us through the national park. Positioned to cross back into Chile the next day, how did you do in the gravel? We hope well, because there's more ahead.

Day 4 – Trevelin to Puyuhaupi, Chile – 246km

South America motorcycle tourToday marks the start of the ride down the Carretera Austral (Highway to the South) and what many folks will agree is some of the best riding in the world!  First crossing the Futaleufú River, you’ll also be passing near Parque National Corcovado, one of very few privately owned land preserves in the world (owned by Doug Tompkins, founder of The North Face clothing company.)

Heading further south on the Carretera, rain is likely before arriving in the town of Puyuhaupi, and this area is an absolute highlight for riders experiencing Patagonia for the first time. Glaciers to the left, waterfalls all around, and the rainforest riding for the Patagonia riders.

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 of Patagonia await you.

Day 6 – Coihaique to Puerto Tranquilo area of Chile – 225km

Nalca Plant Patagonia TripPatagonia 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 enormous Nalca plants will line your ride through Parque Nacional Queulat, and likely some rain today. 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, and combined with more snow-capped mountains in the background, this is one fantastic ride into Puerto Tranquilo. If you arrived early enough, opportunities for fishing, boat tours of the nearby Marble Caves, and canopy tours are possible.

Day 7 – REST DAY in Puerto Tranquilo (area), Chile

Patagonia BMW motorcycle tourThe rest day in Puerto Tranquilo is chosen for a couple of reasons. First, Patagonia makes for some tough riding and everyone has a need to rest up, and second, because you probably won’t want to leave the Puerto Tranquilo area! We will be far off “the beaten path” at this point and varying emotions about seclusion and our 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, this is barely a relaxing 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 takes you along the shores of Lago General Carrera with its blue beauty guiding us along rock walls and fantastic scenery on 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 before us, so we take extra caution on rides like this.

Day 10 – Gobernador Gregores to El Calafate, Argentina - 330km

Still out in the Argentine wild, just 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 can 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 visit to Glacier: 160km)

Perito Moreno Glacier PatagoniaIt's important to rest once again, and there might be no better town to do so in. Just a short ride  morning starts with a visit 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 your 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

Torres del Paine adventure tourCircling 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 Cuernos (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”(The Horns,) 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 Puerto Natales or Punta Arenas, Chile (inquiry for your specific dates) 76 or 318km 

Finally, the Province and Island of Tierra del Fuego! Originally given that name by Ferdinand Magellan (meaning “Land of Fire”) because of the Indian’s fires he saw blazing before him, he might have better named it “Land of Wind,” because you’re likely be inundated by it most of the day. Although you might not actually touch Tierra del Fuego, you'll be just about 1 kilometer from it across the Straight of Magellan, and definitely have the sensation of what it's like to be out there. Now just imagine all the photos you have to start organizing as the riding part of your trip is over! Enjoy your stay in Punta Arenas. The Casino in town could be fun, or for site-seeing options, walk through the famous cemetery there in town, as it's quite amazing.

Day 14 - Breakfast and departure

Minimum Essential Gear for RIDE Training

If you're planning to jump on a guided tour or training with RIDE Adventures, it's essential that you have the right gear. This helps to ensure your safety and the safety of others while on the road.

Not being properly prepared can lead to injuires that could have been avoided. Our guides have created a Minimum Essential Gear Guide if you plan to book a RIDE Adventures. If you don't come minimally prepared there is a chance our guides will prevent you from hopping on a bike. Make sure you're prepared for the adventure. 

Bikes Available

BMW F700GS (twin cylinder)

BMW F700GS (twin cylinder)

The new F700GS offers a larger windshield, enhanced braking system, Electronic Suspension Adjustment, Automatic Stability Control, and a handful more horsepower! As if the previous version (the F650GS) wasn't a good enough adventure bike, this mid-weight option continues to be the most versatile and popular motorcycle rental option.

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Seat Height:
32.3 in
Curb Weight:
461.0 lb
Fuel Capacity:
4.2 gal
Displacement:
798 cc
BMW F750GS

BMW F750GS

Not everyone needs a gigantic adventure bike to have fun, and the BMW F750GS fills that niche of "big enough for the long haul, small enough to have fun." With a power-to-weight ratio similar to the bigger models, 77hp can be used to hang with any other adventure bike on the market and perhaps be even more fun when it comes to the dirt roads and tight switchbacks. 

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Seat Height:
32.1 in
Curb Weight:
493lb / 223kg
Fuel Capacity:
4 gal / 15 L
Displacement:
853 cc
BMW F800GS

BMW F800GS

Certainly considered the “athlete” of the BMW team, the F800GS can be counted on to carry all your travel gear and still maintain the awesome feeling of a pure off-road machine when you’re in the dirt.  With over 215mm of suspension travel, the F800GS boasts 85 horsepower from its twin-cylinder engine, and is sure to give an adrenaline rush when you unleash it!

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Seat Height:
34.6 in
Curb Weight:
472.0 lb
Fuel Capacity:
4.2 gal
Displacement:
798 cc
BMW F850GS

BMW F850GS

When it's predecessor launched in 2009, the world recognized the beauty of a "middle-weight" adventure bike, perhaps most appropriately built to handle it all. The new BMW F850GS builds on a decade of riders trotting the globe on a machine with all the power you could ever need, and agility to go have almost dirt-bike-like fun when the luggage and passenger aren't along for the ride.

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Seat Height:
33.9 in
Curb Weight:
504lb / 229kg
Fuel Capacity:
4 gal / 15 L
Displacement:
853 cc
BMW R1200GS - Liquid Cooled

BMW R1200GS - Liquid Cooled

Revised back in 2013, BMW it seems has done it once again in the world of adventure motorcycles. The new liquid-cooled version of the famous R1200GS comes with a more "upright" stance and off-road friendly positioning.  Now with a wet clutch, a higher air intake perfect for river crossings, and a 10% horsepower increase over the previous model, BMW has clearly made improvements on what was already a great adventure bike.

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Seat Height:
33.5.0 in
Curb Weight:
538 lbs
Fuel Capacity:
5.3 gal
Displacement:
1170 cc
BMW R1200GS Adventure (2014+ Liquid Cooled)

BMW R1200GS Adventure (2014+ Liquid Cooled)

Just a year after releasing the Liquid Cooled R1200GS, BMW's famous Adventure model or "GSA" was introduced, and for all the right reasons. Like its predecessor, the "GSA LC" as we tend to call it boasts 125 liquid cooled horsepower and has the fuel capacity and carrying capability to make the longest and most remote adventures a reality. At the same time, it's still a thrill when in tight mountain switchbacks and twisties!

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Seat Height:
35.0 in
Curb Weight:
580 lbs
Fuel Capacity:
7.93 gal
Displacement:
1170 cc
BMW R1250GS

BMW R1250GS

Freshly updated after multiple generations of industry-leading design, BMW's R1250GS is yet another masterpiece coming from the company that many will claim pioneered the thought of adventure riding. Boasting 136hp now, yet still maintaining the "flickability" many of us feel in the GS line, load up the bike or head out solo, and you're sure to have a blast from this high performance machine. 

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Seat Height:
33.5/34.3 in
Curb Weight:
549lb/249kg
Fuel Capacity:
5.3gal / 20 L
Displacement:
1254 cc
CF Moto MT800

CF Moto MT800

The MT800 is a versatile adventure bike with amazing capabilities both on the asphalt and off-road. The light and powerful frame works with KYB’s multi-adjustable suspensions and the powerful 800cc engine with 95hp, giving it a vibrant road and excellent performance. Powerful braking with cornering ABS, slip clutch and Full Led lights with cornering function dramatically increase road safety. But in terms of comfort, the 800MT excels, as it is equipped with Cruise Control, high adjustable windshield and an impressive 7 “color screen with the ability to view Navigation, phone calls, music, and of course a clear display of all information on the instrument panel.

  • Wet Weight - 509 lbs
  • Seat Height - 32.5 inches
  • Fuel Capacity - 5 gal

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Seat Height:
32.5 in
Curb Weight:
509 lbs
Fuel Capacity:
5 gal
Displacement:
800cc
Honda Africa Twin

Honda Africa Twin

Finally, the return of a legend! The long awaited, and thoroughly updated Africa Twin by Honda has been talked about for years, finally making itself available in various markets around the world in 2015. With a four-valve Unicam® cylinder head 998cc parallel twin engine, more power than an adventure rider could ever need is available along with suspension travel and ground clearance to handle the most remote and rugged terrains and pathways. 

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Seat Height:
33.5/34.3 in
Curb Weight:
511 lb
Fuel Capacity:
4.96 gal
Displacement:
998 cc
Honda CB500X

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.

  • Wet Weight - 428lbs
  • Seat Height - 31.8 inches
  • Fuel Capacity - 4.6 gal

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Seat Height:
31.8 in
Curb Weight:
428lbs
Fuel Capacity:
4.6 gal
Displacement:
471cc Parallel Twin
Triumph Tiger 1200 XCx

Triumph Tiger 1200 XCx

Triumph continues to charge their way into the adventure riding and sport touring scene with models like the Tiger 1200 XCx. With adjustable riding positions, ride-by-wire throttle control, and a formidible 3-cylinder powerplant, everything from paved twisties to Backcountry Discovery Routes are a rush whether you're riding solo or 2-up!
  • 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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Seat Height:
32.8 to 33.6 in
Curb Weight:
572 lb
Fuel Capacity:
5.2 gal
Displacement:
1215 cc