- 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 Osorno, Chile - 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 on or before this date, as we'll be departing early the next morning. Intra-Chile flights can be booked through www.latam.com or www.skyairline.cl (Santiago/SCL to Osorno/ZOS and then from Punta Arenas/PUQ at the end.) The bi-lingual RIDE Adventures Guides will pick you up from the airport, and a welcome meeting and dinner will be held once everyone is together in Osorno. Excitement will be peaking, and we understand.
Day 2 – Osorno, Chile to San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina – 239km
After our morning meeting and fitting of your motorcycle, we’ll be ready to go when everyone is comfortable for departure. You'll certainly have the opportunity to bring any unique 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. Settling in for the night, our first Argentine asado (barbeque) in this lively town sets us up for even greater riding ahead.
Day 3 – Bariloche to Trevelin, Argentina – 308km
An optional ride will be presented for the morning to enjoy the "Circuito Chico," a one-hour loop through Llao Llao to the west of Bariloche. Leaving Bariloche, most of the trucks and traffic will take the obvious Route 40 south, but we’ll 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 us through the national park. Positioning ourselves 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 our 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, we’ll also be 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 we'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 we 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, Chile
The rest day in Puerto Tranquilo is chosen for a couple of reasons. First, Patagonia makes for some tough riding and we 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, 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, we’ll ride along the shores of Lago General Carrera with its blue beauty guiding us along rock walls and fantastic scenery on our 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, we 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 us 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 us 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 our eyes, crashing into the bay before us. 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 Cerro Sombrero, Chile - 460 km
Out across the open "pampas" of Argentina and with the Atlantic Ocean in your sites, riders will still want to be careful for the bounty of guanacos bouncing around in this typically windy section. Swinging through Rio Gallegos, the goal is to catch one of the ferries to cross the Straight of Magellan, which means...you've just completed a RIDE to Tierra del Fuego! Such remote territories will again make everyone glad that they have the safety and reassurance of our Support Truck and Guide following behind.
Day 13 – Cerro Sombrero to Ushuaia, Argentina – 414 km
Finally, your ride to Ushuaia at the “Fin del Mundo” or the “End of the World!”
Adventure riders from around the world have dreamt about this moment, and here it finally waits before you. Thoughts about the amazing journey that it took to get this far might sneak into the amazing anticipation that comes with riding to this point, only 1000km from Antarctica.
Wide open wind blasts are 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. Enjoy a nice evening there in town probably focused on a seafood dinner, and buy the very popular post cards to send to people from "The End of the World." A group dinner is certainly appropriate to celebrate the occasion.
Day 14 - Ushuaia to Rio Grande - 215 km
As we'll be explaining upon your booking, riders have a few options to enjoy on this half-day in Ushuaia. Some will choose to visit the Harberton Island Penguins on a 5-hour morning tour involving a boat/bus ride, while others might choose to ride a little further to Bahia Lapataia in the National Park Tierra del Fuego. Here awaits a photo opportunity at the end of Ruta 3, which is just 17,848 kilometers from Alaska! You can also send a postcard from Southernmost Post Office at the End of the World, or of course just relax around Ushuaia the entire morning. - The afternoon will be spent making a short ride back to the Atlantic Coast and the town of Rio Grande, positioning riders to cross back into Chile the next day.
Day 15 – Rio Grande to Punta Arenas, Chile - 230 km - plus ferry across Strait of Magellan
Back to Chile the RIDE goes, and with perhaps one of the greatest finishes to a motorcycle trip ever. First, make your way across the border, across Tierra del Fuego, and to the ferry at Porvenir. Boarding the enormous vehicle & passenger vessel, a few hours will be spent crossing the Strait of Magellan one more time, just like the Patagonia Explorer that you are. Punta Arenas marks Chile's southernmost (non-military) city, so you'll be able to say you've been "as far south as possible" in both Chile and Argentina on this trip. This fun town on the shores of the Strait is loaded with shopping and dining options, and positions everyone for the ultimate finish ahead.
Day 16 – Punta Arenas to Torres del Paine National Park - 330 km
With the Strait of Magellan to your right, and the southern tip of the Andes Mountains dead ahead, riders should make it to the touristy town of Puerto Natales for refueling and lunch by mid-day. Puerto Natales is a booming small town, largely because it's on the edge of perhaps the greatest highlight in all of Patagonia: Torres del Paine National Park.
We've specifically allowed for at least 2 possible days for everyone to enjoy the sites within the park, as sometimes cloudy weather obscures famous sites like "Los Cuernos" (The Horns) that will never find justice in any photos herein. Spend the afternoon this day riding to Glacier Grey, and around Lago Pehoe before settling down for an evening in the Park.
Day 17 - Torres del Paine to Puerto Natales, Chile - 120 km
If cloudy weather the day before obscured your views within this stunning National Park, that's okay because clouds one day often means clear skies the next. Riders have the entire last day to enjoy exploring every lake view, waterfall, mountain peak, and guanaco within this truly special preservation of our planet before heading back to Puerto Natales for the finish. Please note, this itinerary is designed to accommodate those with the extra time to spend hiking famous routes like the "W Trek" within Torres del Paine. Also, it allows us some extra time if needed for the skies to clear in the park, and of course let's everyone finish the trip with one of the greatest highlights in all of Patagonia! Enjoy one final night with the great group of fellow riders you've probably made long this journey.
Day 18 - Departures, if you must
Puerto Natales airport will serve as an excellent starting point for your journey home, so start organizing all those photos, and preparing to show those whom you left behind. Or are you returning to Torres del Paine for some trekking, and more exploration? You're not alone if you're not feeling ready to leave Patagonia. Congrats to you all, on an incredible adventure ride successfully accomplished. Thank you for trusting in RIDE Adventures to support you on this adventure ride of a lifetime.
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
X
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