Argentina and Chile guide
Culture shock
Both Chile and Argentina have a very European feel, though in the northern regions there is more influence from native Andean peoples. Infrastructure in the main populated areas is good. Spanish is the main language, so you’ll need a few key phrases to get by.
Road conditions
Major roads in the north are generally good tarmac but they can be affected by earthquake damage or volcanic activity. Outside main towns, you’ll have the road to yourself. In the north, roads between the two countries traverse the Andes up to altitudes of almost 4500m.
Experience level
If you stick to the tarmac routes, then this region is great for riders with average road-riding experience. Riders who want something more adventurous can find plenty of rough, remote roads.
What’s it like to ride there?
The north of Chile & Argentina may not be as famous as Patagonia in the south but it’s significantly more diverse and the motorcycling is superb. Distances are vast and landscapes are jaw-dropping — towering volcanoes, shimmering salt flats and unending desert horizons — you could be on another planet.
Hairpins on mountain roads can be tight, with gravel on the corners and often, no barriers. Watch for slowmoving trucks in blind bends too. On the Chilean side, through the Atacama, refuel whenever possible, as petrol stations can be few and far between.
Must ride/see
Ride the spectacular Pacific coast road from Iquique to Tocopilla, between sheer cliffs and the ocean.
Head to San Pedro de Atacama and ride the Valley of the Moon at sunset Cross the awesome 4200m Paso de Jama into Argentina. See magnificent views of Seven Colours Hill as the backdrop to Purmamarca and ride the Unescolisted Quebrada de Humahuaca. Ride the twisting road of Cuesta de Miranda, through rugged cliffs and intense red rocky outcrops to the Garganta del Diablo Salta. Visit South America’s highest mountain, Aconcagua and the Cristo Redentor de los Andes pass, down into Santiago.
When to go
We’d suggest March/april or October/ November. High passes in the north can experience snow in between.
How to get your bike there
It’s easier to fly your bike into Santiago (Chile) than Buenos Aires (Argentina) if you’re there for three weeks or more, and will cost around £1,600. Sea freight back can be around £1,000 — try Motofreight (www.motofreight.com). You can rent bikes in Chile and agencies will give you paperwork and insurance to cross to Argentina. Pay US$220 a day for a BMW R1200GS or $140 for a BMW F700GS. Try www.motoaventura.cl.