Explorer
SOUTH PATAGONIA – GRAVEL & GLACIERS | 27.12.2027–08.01.2028
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MOTORCYCLE:
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450.
TOUR DESCRIPTION:
CHILE, ARGENTINA AND THE ROAD FROM BARILOCHE TO USHUAIA
This is Patagonia on two wheels: a 13-day motorcycle expedition across Chile and Argentina, from Bariloche in the northern Lake District to Ushuaia, at the southern tip of Tierra del Fuego.
The route combines the Carretera Austral, the remote gravel roads of Ruta 41, Argentina’s Ruta 40, Torres del Paine National Park and the crossing of the Strait of Magellan. Rental motorcycles are included, together with accommodation in hotels and guesthouses throughout the expedition.
We follow a carefully planned route through some of Patagonia’s most remarkable landscapes, combining mountain roads, gravel tracks, glacial lakes and vast open steppes. The journey is designed for riders who want to experience both Chilean and Argentine Patagonia without having to ship their own motorcycles to South America.
A JOURNEY THROUGH TWO PATAGONIAS
We begin in Bariloche, surrounded by the lakes and forested mountains of the Argentine Andes. Crossing into Chile, we follow the legendary Carretera Austral through rainforests, mountain valleys and remote Patagonian settlements. South of Coyhaique, the road takes us towards Lago General Carrera, one of South America’s largest and most spectacular lakes.
From Puerto Guadal, we ride the winding lakeside road to Chile Chico before crossing back into Argentina. The remote Ruta 41 takes us through the mountains of Monte Zeballos towards Lago Posadas, where the scenery changes from green Andean valleys to the immense, wind-swept Patagonian steppe. Further south, Ruta 40 leads us towards El Calafate, with the opportunity to visit the Perito Moreno Glacier.
Returning to Chile via the gravel and paved roads, we ride through Torres del Paine National Park, among granite peaks, turquoise lakes and wide-open valleys. We then cross the Tierra del Fuego landscapes into Ushuaia – The “End of the World”.
EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
- 13 days across Chile and Argentina, from Bariloche to Ushuaia
- The legendary Carretera Austral and Argentina’s Ruta 40
- The lakes and forested mountains of northern Patagonia
- Lago General Carrera and the spectacular lakeside road through Paso Las Llaves
- Ruta 41 and the remote mountain landscapes of Monte Zeballos
- Lago Posadas and the vast Patagonian steppe
- El Calafate and the optional Perito Moreno Glacier excursion
- Torres del Paine National Park and its granite peaks and glacial lakes
- Remote gravel roads through the volcanic landscapes near Pali Aike
- The ferry crossing of the Strait of Magellan
- Tierra del Fuego, Paso Garibaldi and Ushuaia
- Rental motorcycles and a dedicated support vehicle carrying the main luggage
- Accommodation in hotels throughout
WHO IS THIS EXPEDITION FOR?
This tour is intended for adventure riders who are comfortable riding on gravel and covering substantial distances on consecutive days. Previous experience on unpaved roads is important, as several sections of the itinerary take us through remote areas with loose surfaces and limited services.
This is not an enduro tour, but Patagonia requires concentration, endurance and flexibility. Strong winds, changing road surfaces, unpredictable weather and long riding days are part of the experience. The route is suitable for riders with riding endurance and some gravel experience who enjoy travelling through remote landscapes.
GUIDANCE, LUGGAGE AND LOGISTICAL SUPPORT
The group is accompanied by an experienced motorcycle guide, with a dedicated support vehicle carrying the participants’ main luggage and assisting with daily logistics. Motorcycle rental is included, while fuel remains the responsibility of each rider. The Perito Moreno Glacier excursion from El Calafate is optional.
The itinerary may be adjusted because of weather, road conditions, ferry operations, border procedures or other circumstances beyond MotoBirds’ control. In particular, remote gravel sections and mountain roads require flexibility to ensure safe and practical travel.
THE FREEDOM TO EXPERIENCE PATAGONIA AT YOUR OWN PACE
This is a supported motorcycle expedition, not a controlled convoy. Riders receive the planned route and daily briefings, allowing them to understand the distances, road conditions, fuel stops and places of interest before setting off.
There is time to enjoy the journey, stop for photographs and discover the landscapes along the way. On demanding sections, particularly gravel roads and border crossings, the guide coordinates the group according to the conditions and the experience of the participants.
The support vehicle carries the main luggage and provides logistical backup throughout the journey. This allows riders to concentrate on the motorcycle, the road and the experience of crossing Patagonia from the Andes to the southernmost city in the world.
TOUR DETAILS
HIGHLIGHTS:
Thirteen days, two countries and one unforgettable ride to the End of the World. From the green valleys of the Andes to the windswept plains of Tierra del Fuego, this is Patagonia at its best: remote gravel roads, spectacular mountain passes, turquoise lakes and the freedom of riding through some of the wildest landscapes in South America.
- From Bariloche to Ushuaia – Ride across Chilean and Argentine Patagonia, all the way to the legendary End of the World.
- The Carretera Austral – Follow one of South America’s most celebrated adventure roads, winding between dense forests, rivers, mountains and remote Patagonian settlements.
- Lago General Carrera & Paso Las Llaves – Ride above the extraordinary turquoise waters of this immense glacial lake, along a narrow, twisting road carved into the mountainside.
- Ruta 41 & Monte Zeballos – Discover one of Patagonia’s great gravel roads, climbing through colourful mountains, isolated valleys and landscapes that seem almost untouched.
- Argentina’s legendary Ruta 40 – Experience the wide-open spaces of the Patagonian steppe, with endless horizons, remote roads and the famous southern winds.
- Perito Moreno Glacier – Take the opportunity to visit one of the world’s most spectacular glaciers, where enormous walls of blue ice rise above Lago Argentino. Optional excursion.
- Torres del Paine National Park – Ride among granite peaks, glacial lakes and sweeping valleys in one of South America’s most extraordinary mountain landscapes.
- The volcanic wilderness of Pali Aike – Venture onto remote gravel roads through ancient volcanic terrain and the immense plains of southern Chile.
- Crossing the Strait of Magellan – Take the ferry to Tierra del Fuego, following the historic passage between mainland Patagonia and the island at the southern edge of the continent.
- Tierra del Fuego & Paso Garibaldi – Watch the landscape transform from open steppe to forests, lakes and mountain roads as we approach Ushuaia.
- A genuine cross-border motorcycle adventure – Two countries, changing landscapes, remote gravel sections and the satisfaction of travelling the length of Patagonia by motorcycle.
- Rental motorcycle and luggage support included – Enjoy the ride without shipping your own bike. Your main luggage travels in the support vehicle while you concentrate on the road.
- Hotels and local guesthouses every night – Comfortable accommodation throughout the expedition, without camping or carrying bulky luggage on the motorcycle.
- A small group of fellow adventure riders – Share the road, the occasional challenge and the stories that inevitably come from riding across Patagonia.
And then there’s Ushuaia. After thousands of kilometres of mountain roads, gravel, wind and unforgettable scenery, reaching the End of the World on a motorcycle feels like a proper achievement. Some journeys are worth taking for the roads alone. This one is worth taking for everything that happens along the way.
WEATHER:
Patagonian summer – where the weather is part of the adventure
Late December and early January are among the best months to explore Patagonia by motorcycle. It is summer in the Southern Hemisphere, with long daylight hours and generally milder temperatures. But Patagonia has its own ideas about the weather. Sunshine, rain, cold mountain air and powerful winds can all be part of the same riding day. Conditions change considerably as we travel south. Around Bariloche, daytime temperatures can reach 20–25°C, while the forests and mountain valleys of the Carretera Austral are generally cooler and more humid, with occasional heavy rain. Further east, the Argentine steppe is usually drier, with temperatures around 15–20°C in El Calafate. As we approach Tierra del Fuego and Ushuaia, expect cooler conditions, typically 10–15°C during the day, with chilly mornings and considerably lower temperatures possible in the mountains.
Wind is perhaps Patagonia’s most famous travelling companion. Strong, sometimes unpredictable crosswinds are common on the exposed roads of Ruta 40, around Torres del Paine and across Tierra del Fuego. They can make riding demanding, particularly on gravel, and occasionally require changes to our daily plans. On the Carretera Austral, rain and wet gravel are more likely to be the challenge. The key to enjoying Patagonia is being prepared for changing conditions. Good waterproof motorcycle clothing, thermal layers, warm gloves and effective wind protection are essential, even in the middle of summer. Temperatures can change quickly with altitude, rain and wind, so wearing several adjustable layers is far more practical than relying on a single heavy jacket. Out here, experiencing four seasons in one day is not unusual – it is simply part of the journey.
MOTORCYCLE GEAR:
Prepared for the wind, the rain and everything Patagonia throws at us
Patagonia is a place where good motorcycle gear makes a real difference. During this expedition, we ride through warm valleys, cool mountain passes, wet forests and the exposed plains of Tierra del Fuego. Temperatures can change considerably during a single day, and strong winds can make even a sunny afternoon feel surprisingly cold. Every rider must bring their own gear.
- Full-face or adventure motorcycle helmet, preferably with a clear visor and anti-fog insert (Pinlock or equivalent).
- Sturdy adventure or off-road motorcycle boots, offering good ankle and shin protection. Ordinary hiking boots are not suitable.
- Gloves, ideally two pairs: one for warmer conditions and another insulated and waterproof for cold mornings and wet riding.
- Reliable waterproof motorcycle clothing, either a fully waterproof riding suit or a separate rain jacket and trousers.
- Layering is essential. We recommend thermal base layers, a warm fleece or insulating mid-layer, a windproof neck warmer and good thermal socks.
There is no need for specialised racing or hard-enduro equipment, but this is a genuine adventure motorcycle expedition. Good protection, comfortable boots and clothing that allows you to adjust to changing temperatures will make the long riding days considerably more enjoyable.
Our advice: prepare for cold, wet and windy conditions, even if the forecast promises sunshine.
LUGGAGE:
Travel light. Ride free.
During the expedition, the support vehicle carries your main luggage, allowing you to enjoy the rides without the extra weight of a fully loaded motorcycle. Each participant may bring one soft, waterproof travel bag weighing up to 20 kg. A flexible roll bag is ideal, as it is easier to load, secure and transport in the support vehicle. Hard-shell suitcases and rigid luggage cannot be accepted due to limited space. Valuables, fragile equipment and important documents should always remain with you rather than in the support vehicle.
For evenings and our time in the towns along the route, pack comfortable walking shoes, casual clothing and a few warm layers.
Pack simply and leave a little room for the unexpected. With frequent hotel changes and long riding days, keeping luggage compact makes life easier, you have less to lose along the way and it gives you more time for what really matters: enjoying the ride!
IMPORTANT TRAVEL INFORMATION:
Far from the everyday world
Patagonia is one of the most rewarding places in the world to explore by motorcycle, but it is also remote, unpredictable and sometimes demanding. Long distances between towns, limited fuel stations, changing road conditions and unreliable mobile coverage are part of travelling through this region.
Riding experience matters. This expedition combines asphalt, gravel and some long days in the saddle. You should be comfortable riding a motorcycle on loose surfaces, and have endurance for long days. Weather can change quickly, even in summer.
Travel insurance and medical assistance. Basic travel insurance is included in the MotoBirds package. However, medical facilities can be far away, and emergency evacuation from remote areas may be expensive. We strongly recommend subscribing an additional coverage with Global Rescue or equivalent.
Come prepared, keep an open mind and let Patagonia do what it does best: surprise you. The wind, the gravel, the changing skies and the enormous distances are not inconveniences to be avoided. They are part of what makes reaching Ushuaia by motorcycle such a memorable achievement.
MAXIMUM ALTITUDE:
1900 meters
metres above sea levelDAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1 – December 27: Arrival in Bariloche
Welcome to Patagonia! Our expedition begins in San Carlos de Bariloche, a lively town on the shores of Lago Nahuel Huapi, surrounded by the mountains of the Argentine Lake District. Depending on arrival times, there is an opportunity to explore the town, enjoy the lake views or simply relax after the journey. We meet for a welcome briefing to discuss the itinerary, motorcycles, road conditions and practical arrangements for the days ahead.
DAY 2 – December 28: Bariloche → Esquel (approx. 290 km)
Our first riding day takes us south through the lakes and mountains of northern Patagonia. Leaving Bariloche, we follow Ruta 40 towards El Bolsón, riding between forested valleys, rivers and the eastern slopes of the Andes. The landscape gradually opens as we continue towards Esquel, a small Patagonian town surrounded by mountains and wide valleys. It is a good introduction to riding in this part of Argentina, with winding asphalt roads and our first taste of Patagonia’s changing scenery.
DAY 3 – December 29: Esquel → Futaleufú → Puyuhuapi (approx. 265 km)
Today we cross our first international border, leaving Argentina for Chile near Futaleufú. The scenery becomes greener and more mountainous, with dense forests, deep valleys and rivers running down from the Andes. We join the legendary Carretera Austral, one of South America’s most celebrated adventure motorcycle routes. Sections of gravel, winding roads and the landscapes of Chilean Patagonia accompany us south towards Puyuhuapi, a small village set among mountains and fjords.
DAY 4 – December 30: Puyuhuapi → Coyhaique (approx. 260 km)
We continue south on the Carretera Austral, riding through forests, mountain valleys and the landscapes of the Aysén region. The route takes us through the area of Queulat National Park, known for its lush vegetation, waterfalls and dramatic mountain scenery. The road alternates between sweeping sections and tighter bends as we travel towards Coyhaique, the regional capital and an important centre for travellers exploring southern Chile.
DAY 5 – December 31: Coyhaique → Puerto Guadal (approx. 280 km)
We leave Coyhaique and head south towards Villa Cerro Castillo, surrounded by some of the most striking mountain landscapes along the Carretera Austral.
Beyond Cerro Castillo, the scenery changes again as we approach Lago General Carrera, the enormous turquoise lake shared by Chile and Argentina. Depending on roadworks and the state of the route, we encounter stretches of gravel through the valleys and mountains of southern Aysén. Our destination is Puerto Guadal, a small settlement on the southern shore of Lago General Carrera. We spend New Year’s Eve here, far from the crowds, surrounded by the landscapes of Patagonia.
DAY 6 – January 1: Puerto Guadal → Chile Chico → Ruta 41 → Lago Posadas (approx. 300 km)
One of the most memorable riding days of the expedition. Leaving Puerto Guadal, we follow the spectacular lakeside road towards Chile Chico. The narrow, winding section around Paso Las Llaves runs high above Lago General Carrera, offering dramatic views of the turquoise water and surrounding mountains. After crossing the Chilean–Argentine border into Los Antiguos, we take the road towards towards Monte Zeballos. This remote gravel road climbs through colourful mountain landscapes, broad valleys and high-altitude terrain before descending towards Lago Posadas. This last section is exposed and isolated. We finish the day in the small settlement of Lago Posadas, surrounded by some of Argentine Patagonia’s most unusual landscapes.
DAY 7 – January 2: Lago Posadas → Gobernador Gregores (approx. 300 km)
Today we leave the mountains behind and venture deeper into the Patagonian steppe. The route takes us through remote landscapes, where gravel roads, open plains and distant mountain ranges stretch towards the horizon. We eventually connect with Argentina’s legendary Ruta 40, the great north–south road that runs along the Andes. This is classic Patagonia: immense distances, little traffic and the ever-present possibility of strong crosswinds.
DAY 8 – January 3: Gobernador Gregores → El Calafate (approx. 350 km) We continue south along Ruta 40, crossing the vast landscapes of Santa Cruz province. The scenery is dominated by open steppe, distant mountains and long stretches of road where the horizon seems almost endless.
As we approach the southern Andes, the landscape begins to change. Glacial lakes and mountain peaks appear in the distance, announcing our arrival in the region of Los Glaciares National Park. We reach El Calafate, the gateway to the famous Perito Moreno Glacier, where we spend the next two nights.
DAY 9 – January 4: El Calafate – Optional Perito Moreno Glacier excursion
A free day in El Calafate, with the option to visit one of Patagonia’s most extraordinary natural landmarks: the Perito Moreno Glacier. Located approximately 80 km from town, this immense wall of blue ice descends from the Southern Patagonian Ice Field into Lago Argentino. Walkways and panoramic viewpoints allow visitors to observe the glacier from different angles and, with a little luck, witness enormous blocks of ice breaking away into the lake.Those who prefer a quieter day can explore El Calafate, relax or enjoy the views over Lago Argentino.
DAY 10 – January 5: El Calafate → Torres del Paine → Puerto Natales (approx. 400–450 km)
Today brings another major highlight of the expedition. We leave El Calafate and head towards Chile via Ruta Provincial 7, passing through the remote landscapes around El Cerrito and Tapi Aike. After crossing the border at Río Don Guillermo, we enter the region of Torres del Paine National Park, one of South America’s most spectacular protected areas. Our route takes us through the park, past lakes, valleys and viewpoints overlooking the famous granite towers and the Cuernos del Paine. Depending on the weather, the mountain scenery can change dramatically throughout the day, from brilliant sunshine to clouds sweeping across the peaks.
DAY 11 – January 6: Puerto Natales → Pali Aike → Strait of Magellan → Cerro Sombrero (approx. 370–420 km + ferry) Leaving Puerto Natales, we ride east across the open landscapes of southern Chile, following remote roads towards the volcanic region of Pali Aike. The route includes gravel sections through the Patagonian steppe, wide plains and almost no traffic. This is one of the most exposed parts of the expedition, where strong winds can make even relatively straightforward roads demanding. We continue towards Punta Delgada and board the ferry across the Strait of Magellan. The short crossing takes us to Bahía Azul on Tierra del Fuego, the great island shared by Chile and Argentina. A final stretch brings us to Cerro Sombrero, where we spend our last night before the ride to Ushuaia.
DAY 12 – January 7: Cerro Sombrero → Ushuaia – The End of the World (approx. 420 km) Our final riding day takes us across Tierra del Fuego. We leave Cerro Sombrero, cross the Chilean–Argentine border at San Sebastián and continue towards Río Grande. For much of the morning, the landscape is open and windswept, with the vast plains of Tierra del Fuego stretching towards the horizon. We climb towards Paso Garibaldi, with views over Lago Escondido and the surrounding mountains, before descending towards Ushuaia.
DAY 13 – January 8: End of our South Patagonia expedition.
After breakfast, our Patagonia motorcycle expedition comes to an end. Depending on flight schedules, there may be time for a final walk around Ushuaia before heading to the airport.
Distances are approximate. The itinerary may be adjusted according to weather, road conditions, border procedures, ferry operations and other circumstances beyond MotoBirds’ control.
WHAT OUR RIDERS SAY
GOOGLE REVIEWS
Google rating score: 5.0 of 5,based on 47 reviews
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
MOTORCYCLE
GUIDE
SUPPORT VEHICLE
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
ACCOMMODATION & MEALS
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE TRANSFERS
ACTIVITIES
Entry tickets to Tierra del Fuego National Park.
Entry tickets to Los Glacaires National Park.
Entry tickets to Torres del Paine National Park.
Ferry to Tierra del Fuego
INSURANCE
- Basic travel insurance.
- Tourist Guarantee Fund fee.
- Tourist Support Fund fee.
IMPORTANT: For an additional fee, there is an option to independently extend the insurance within the Signal Iduna Safe Travels and/or Global Rescue partner offer. The price of the tour includes basic travel insurance.
WELCOME PACK
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:
THE FEW THINGS YOU TAKE CARE OF
To keep the tour price clear and transparent, the following services and personal expenses are paid separately:
- International flights to Bariloche and from Ushuaia. Please do not purchase airline tickets until MotoBirds confirms that the minimum group size has been reached and the expedition will proceed.
- Tourist visas, if required for your nationality.
- Medical expenses exceeding the limits of, or excluded from, the travel insurance provided by MotoBirds.
- Emergency evacuation, medical transport and repatriation costs not covered by insurance, including additional expenses resulting from illness, injury or an early departure from the expedition.
- Motorcycle recovery and transport costs if the motorcycle or rider cannot continue because of an accident, damage or circumstances attributable to the rider, to the extent these costs are not covered by the rental insurance.
- Optional Global Rescue membership or other additional medical evacuation and rescue coverage.
- Motorcycle fuel throughout the expedition.
- Refundable motorcycle security deposit of €600 payable in cash at motorcycle handover.
- Lunches and dinners. Breakfasts are included throughout the expedition.
- Drinks and alcoholic beverages.
- Tips for local guides, drivers and other service providers, at your discretion.
- Optional excursions and entrance fees, including: Perito Moreno Glacier optional boat trip (approximately US$40 per person. Beagle Channel boat excursion in Ushuaia (approximately US$150 per person, depending on the selected excursion and availability).
- Single-room supplement, if requested and available (€70/night).
- Personal expenses, including shopping, laundry, souvenirs and other purchases.
- Additional accommodation, transfers or services outside the scheduled expedition programme.
- Any other services or expenses not expressly mentioned under “Price Includes”
MOTORCYCLE SECURITY DEPOSIT:
Refundable motorcycle deposit of €600. Cash payment on site. If the damage to the motorcycle exceeds the amount of the deposit, the driver must pay the difference.
