PATAGONIA AND USHUAIA ADVENTURE
This 14-day South American Adventure leads riders from Chile’s Puerto Varas to Argentina’s Tierra Del Fuego, the southernmost tip of the continent, before ending in Ushuaia. This tour is designed to allow time to explore the most interesting and spectacular regions of Chile and Argentina.
Although the name Patagonia often conjures up images of a rugged expedition, this tour offers a different kind of experience. Over 95% of the route consists of well-paved roads, with the remainder being hard-packed gravel in good condition. This trip is suitable for individuals with limited off-pavement experience, as well as for two-up riding.
Highlights of this Adventure include:
- Puerto Varas, the “City of Roses,” known for its distinctive German-inspired architecture and breathtaking views of the towering Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes overlooking the lake
- A two-night stay in the scenic region of Bariloche, Argentina, with the option to take a loop ride to explore the surrounding area of lakes and volcanoes
- The historic town of Puerto San Julian, where Magellan and his crew spent the winter in the town’s harbor in 1520
- El Calafate, including a boat cruise for an up-close look at the famous Perito Mereno Glacier
- Puerto Natales, situated on the border of the Torres del Paine National Park, known as one of the most stunning national parks in South America
- A ferry ride across the Straits of Magellan to the island of Tierra del Fuego
- Ushuaia! The world’s southernmost city and bucket list destination for many motorcycle adventure enthusiasts
- Tierra del Fuego National Park.
At a Glance Your Patagonia and Ushuaia Adventure
Day 1 – ARRIVAL IN PUERTO VARAS, CHILE
Welcome to Puerto Varas, Chile!
The tour leaders will organize your transfer from El Tepual, Puerto Montt’s airport, to the hotel in Puerto Varas. If you arrive early, you’ll have the opportunity to explore this wonderful city situated on the banks of Lake Llanquihue.
In the late afternoon we will meet for the motorcycle handover followed by a brief kickoff meeting. After that, we will head to a nearby local restaurant to enjoy our first dinner together.
Day 2 – PUERTO VARAS TO BARILOCHE ~190 MILES
A very scenic first day’s ride will be along the eastern shore of Lago Llanquihue and three other lakes. These beautiful lakes and surrounding volcanoes are characteristic of this region. As we make our way towards the Argentinean border, we will pass through Puyehue National Park. Once we enter Argentina, we’ll travel along the famous Ruta 40 and ride along the banks of Lake Nahuel Huapi until we reach the wonderful town of San Carlos de Bariloche. We’ll spend two nights here and enjoy the numerous attractions of this breathtaking part of the world.
Day 3 – FREE DAY IN BARILOCHE, ~ 80 MILES
The tour leaders will lead an optional ride on the “Seven Lakes Road’ in Nahuel Huapi National Park, with its incredible views of forests and lakes. This is an unforgettable ride!
For those who prefer to remain in town, Bariloche has a lot to offer, including boutique shops, restaurants, and bars. With Bariloche being known for its chocolate, it’s an absolute must to visit one of the city’s many well-known chocolate shops.
Day 4 – BARILOCHE TO ESQUEL, ~210 MILES
Today’s ride will take us through the famous “Butch Cassidy and Sundance Kid” region. As we make our way towards Esquel, which is situated in the Andes foothills, we’ll travel along serene country roads surrounded by mountains. Compared to Bariloche, Esquel is a more tranquil and relaxed area.
Day 5 – ESQUEL TO COMODORO RIVADAVIA, ~360 MILES
From Esquel, we will follow the infamous Ruta 40 for about two-thirds of the day’s distance before splitting off onto Route 26. Although desolate, the ride through this region of Patagonia is strikingly beautiful and features several interesting stops along the way. We will spend the night in Comodoro Rivadavia, which is the largest city located south of the 45th parallel.
Day 6 – COMODORO RIVADAVIA TO PUERTO SAN JULIAN, ~265 MILES
It’s a beautiful ride along the coast south of Comodoro Rivadavia, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean to your left. At this point, we’ll likely begin to experience the strong Patagonian winds. Puerto San Julian, a quaint fishing village, is known for the many famous explorers who have spent time in this area. Ferdinand Magellan spent the winter here in 1520, while Sir Francis Drake and Charles Darwin also spent time in the area. Additionally, the harbor features a replica of one of Magellan’s ships.
Day 7 – PUERTO SAN JULIAN TO EL CALAFATE, ~370 MILES
We’ll leave the Atlantic coast behind as we head inland to El Calafate, a charming little town with numerous shops, cafés, and restaurants. Our hotel is only a few blocks from downtown and we’ll arrive early enough to explore our surroundings. By the time we reach El Calafate, you will have enjoyed many fine dining experiences but you should get ready to experience one of the trip’s culinary highlights. We have a very special restaurant planned for dining this evening.
Day 8 – FREE DAY IN EL CALAFATE, ~60 MILES
We’ll have a free day to explore El Calafate and visit one of South America’s most popular attractions, the Perito Moreno Glacier, which is just an hour’s ride from El Calafate. We’ll ride our bikes to Los Glaciares National Park, where we’ll embark on a cruise along the face of the glacier. There is no better way to witness the glacier calving and observe huge chunks of ice fall into the lake below!
Day 9 – EL CALAFATE TO PUERTO NATALES, CHILE, ~235 MILES
We will be crossing the border back into Chile today where we’ll visit Torres del Paine, one of the most popular National Parks in South America. Get ready to be amazed by the stunning views of the mountains and glacier lakes with guanacos dotting the grasslands.
Day 10 – FREE DAY PUERTO NATALES
The park offers spectacular riding in every direction, with shimmering lakes around every corner, so be sure to take your camera and be prepared for a relaxing ride through stunning scenery. Alternatively, you can spend a leisurely day at the hotel, enjoying the breathtaking views of the mountains and glacier-fed lakes.
Day 11 – PUERTO NATALES TO PUNTA ARENAS ~ 240 MILES
We’ll have another enjoyable day of riding through Patagonia, heading towards Punta Arenas, the largest city south of the 46th parallel. Along the way, we’ll stop for a photo opportunity at the “Monument to the Wind.” Created in 2000 by Chilean sculptor Alejandra Ruddoff, this monument serves as a tribute to the strong Patagonian winds that are prevalent in this region.
Day 12 – PUNTA ARENAS TO RIO GRANDE ~ 165 MILES
We’ll ride along the Straits of Magellan to Punta Delgada, where we’ll board a ferry for a 20-minute ride across the straits, and onto the island of Tierra del Fuego island. Once we are on the island, the gravel roads will transition to pavement as we re-enter Argentina. Our destination is Rio Grande, where our hotel offers the conveniences we need for a pleasant stay.
Day 13 – RIO GRANDE TO USHUAIA ~ 125 MILES
It’s a short ride from Rio Grande to Ushuaia allowing for a leisurely departure and plenty of time along the way to capture photos of the scenic route. We will arrive in Ushuaia early enough to do some last-minute souvenir shopping and to explore this fascinating “southernmost city in the world”. We will also have the opportunity to ride to Tierra del Fuego National Park to capture a memorable photo at the iconic sign.
Day 14 – DEPARTURE
After a relaxing breakfast, the tour leaders will arrange a transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Total – 2,400 miles.
The roads in Patagonia are predominantly paved and maintained in good condition. Although there are around 200 miles of gravel roads, they are hard-packed and well maintained. The paved roads vary from straight and level, to wide mountain sweepers. While high winds are often prevalent in the region, the windy sections of the trip mostly occur on straight paved roads.
This tour is suitable for riders with limited gravel road riding experience. Two-up riders should have off-road riding experience.
60% Tame
30% Challenging (White sign)
10% Gravel (White sign)
High winds
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Suzuki V-Strom 800
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$150
Unladen weight (with fuel): 223 kg/492 lbs
Engine displacement: 776 cc
Power output: 83 hp
Fuel capacity: 20 L/5.3 gal
Standard seat height: 825 mm/32.5 inches
Low seat height: –
Low frame and low seat height: –
Panniers included: –
Top case included: –
Tank bag available: –
Damage deductible: $4,800
Honda Transalp 750
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$150
Unladen weight (with fuel): 208 kg/459 lbs
Engine displacement: 755 cc
Power output: 90 hp
Fuel capacity: 16.9 L/4.5 gal
Standard seat height: 850 mm/33.5 inches
Low seat height: –
Low frame and low seat height: –
Panniers included: –
Top case included: –
Tank bag available: –
Damage deductible: $4,800
BMW F750GS
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
Included
Unladen weight (with fuel): 224 kg/493 lbs
Engine displacement: 853 cc
Power output: 77 hp
Fuel capacity: 15 L/4.0 gal
Standard seat height: 815 mm/32.1 inches
Low seat height: 790 mm/31.1 inches
Low frame and low seat height: 770 mm/30.3 inches
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $4,800
BMW F800GS
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$150
Unladen weight (with fuel): 214 kg/472 lbs
Engine displacement: 895 cc
Power output: 87 hp
Fuel capacity: 15 L/4.0 gal
Standard seat height: 815 mm/32.1 inches
Low seat height: 790 mm/31.1 inches
Low frame and low seat height: 762 mm/30.0 inches
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $4,800
BMW R1250GS
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$1,000
Unladen weight (with fuel): 249 kg/549 lbs
Engine displacement: 1254 cc
Power output: 136 hp
Fuel capacity: 20 L/5.3 gal
Standard seat height: 850 mm/33.5 inches
Low seat height: 820 mm/32.3 inches
Low frame and low seat height: 800 mm/31.5 inches
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $4,800
BMW R1250GS Adv
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$1,250
Unladen weight (with fuel): 168 kg/591 lbs
Engine displacement: 1254 cc
Power output: 136 hp
Fuel capacity: 30 L/7.9 gal
Standard seat height: 890 mm/35 inches
Low seat height: 820 mm/32 inches
Low frame and low seat height: N/A
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $4,800
BMW R1300GS
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$1,400
Unladen weight (with fuel): 237 kg/523 lbs
Engine displacement: 1300 cc
Power output: 145 hp
Fuel capacity: 19 L/5.0 gal
Standard seat height: 800 mm/31.5 inches to 890 mm/35 inches
Low seat height: 800 mm/31.5 inches to 890 mm/35 inches
Low frame and low seat height: 800 mm/31.5 inches to 890 mm/35 inches
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $4,800
BMW R1300GS Adv
Upgrade fee (for duration of tour):
$1,750
Unladen weight (with fuel): 269 kg/593 lbs
Engine displacement: 1300 cc
Power output: 145 hp
Fuel capacity: 30 L/7.9 gal
Standard seat height: 841 mm/33.1 inches to 890 mm/35 inches
Low seat height: 841 mm/33.1 inches to 890 mm/35 inches
Low frame and low seat height: 841 mm/33.1 inches to 890 mm/35 inches
Panniers included: Yes
Top case included: Yes
Tank bag available: Yes
Damage deductible: $4,800
Personal Motorcycle
Deduct from rider tour price:
-$1,950
Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like a make or model of motorcycle that is not listed on this page for your tour and we will make every effort to secure the motorcycle of your choice.
Standard Inclusions
- Unlimited use of a BMW motorcycle
- Upscale accommodations
- À la carte dining
- Two professional Ayres Adventures tour leaders
- Airport arrival/departure transfers
- Luggage handling
- Comfortable support vehicle for non-riding companions
- Comprehensive pre-trip planning and assistance
- Customized trip booklet with day-by-day itinerary and attractions
- Commemorative shirt
- Adventurer Club travel award credit
Meals
- All breakfasts
- 10 dinners
Special Inclusions
- Boat excursion to view Perito Moreno Glacier
- Entry fee to Torres del Paine National Park
- Entry fee to Los Alerces National Park
- Cave entry fee in Torres del Paine National Park
- Ferry across Straits of Magellan
- Entry fee to Tierra del Fuego National Park
Deposit per person: $800
2027 Schedule
| Dates | 2027 Adventures | Length | Rider Price (USD) | Co-Rider Price (USD) | Single Room Supplement | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 9 - 22 | Patagonia and Ushuaia Adventure | 14 days | $12,900 | $11,000 | $1,300 |
2028 Schedule
| Dates | 2028 Adventures | Length | Rider Price (USD) | Co-Rider Price (USD) | Single Room Supplement | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 22 - February 4 | Patagonia and Ushuaia Adventure | 14 days | $13,600 | $11,500 | $1,300 |
Cancellation fee and refunds
| FROM DATE OF SCHEDULED COMMENCEMENT | AMOUNT FORFEITED |
|---|---|
| More than 60 days | 50% of deposit |
| 60 days or fewer but more than 45 days | 100% of deposit |
| 45 days or fewer but more than 30 days | 50% of full tour payment |
| 30 days or fewer | 100% of full tour payment |
The best way I can think of to see 15 different countries
This tour is the best way I can think of to see 15 different countries in one tour which means 15 different cultures, different geographies, different customs, and best of all 15 different nationalities of people.
While the rest of the group was touring Dracula’s Castle, I went out for a ride by myself up in the mountains. An old sheepherder (pictured) waved at me as I rode by and I turned around and went back to say hi. We had about a half hour conversation with neither of us speaking the others language but with pantomiming he was able to tell me his story. He pointed out the house he grew up in and still lived in. Ninety-three years old and still riding a motorcycle. I figured out that he had a 10-year-old Ducati Monster 600 bike, and rode it out to the pasture where the sheep were.
He relished looking over my bike and indicated BMWs were great bikes. This type of encounter is one of the main reasons I like to go on Ayres motorcycle tours. The freedom to explore on your own and not always have to be with the group sets your company apart from most of the others. There isn't the pressure to stay with the group and I never would have gotten a chance to meet this fella if I wasn't by myself. You don't get this interaction with the locals driving a car.
John's Adventures include:
Munich to Istanbul Adventure
Roof of Africa
Southern Cross
Taste of Chile (and Dash of Argentina)
Portugal, Spain, Morocco
SA Splendors
Escape to Ushuaia
New Zealand Grand Tour
Rendezvous in Rio
Lebanon, OR
Well done, Ayres Adventures!
Once again Ayres Adventures came up trumps for our Father / Daughter private tour in South America. The booking and arrangements were made with the minimum of fuss. Jason Kilian and Chris Gladstone are two of the most friendly and professional tour leaders anyone could wish to travel with. Well done, Ayres Adventures!
Richard and Paula's Adventures include:
New Zealand Top Down Adventure
Machu Picchu Excursion (Empire of the Incas)
Switchback Challenge The Alps
Private Bariloche to Ushuaia tour
Lincolnshire, United Kingdom
I can highly recommend Ayres Adventures for any motorcycle adventure
The "Call of the Wild" tour offered tremendous value for the money. It gave access to high end lodges such as Sediba which one would normally not necessarily consider. The wildlife sightings were spectacular. Game drives were offered twice a day when at game reserves. The local guides were outstanding and offered a ton of information. The opportunity to visit Victoria Falls was great and a must when in that area. The tour guides Claus and Jason made the tour enjoyable. They are professionals and know their stuff. Especially to have Jason, a South African on the tour gave us so much good insight into the country's history, current affairs etc. Jason's knowledge of the wildlife was especially helpful. Special thanks to Jason for helping me in refreshing my Afrikaans. I felt in good hands with both Claus and Jason. The good chemistry among the tour participants also helped to make this trip an unreserved success. I can highly recommend Ayres Adventures for any motorcycle adventure. Their organization and attention to detail is second to none. I am looking forward to the next tour.
Dietrich's Adventures include:
Call of the Wild
Bariloche to Ushuaia
Kitchener, Canada
What a Ride!
What a ride! The IBA (Iron Butt Association) Ushuaia trip attracted me because of the opportunity to ride with like minded individuals who like doing the miles, and I was not disappointed. Challenging conditions like the Patagonian winds and the gravel roads of Chile were taken in stride by this bunch, and we all looked forward to great accommodations and good company at the end of every day.
My personal highlights were chasing Mike Kneebone and Nuno Leotte on the twisty pavement to the Perito Moreno glacier and the 1100 km day riding from Ushuaia to Torres del Paine through some of the finest scenery in the world.
I'll be back for more.
Rick's Adventures include:
IBA (Iron Butt Association) Ushuaia Tour
African Call of the Wild
African Southern Cross
Portugal, Spain and Morocco
Machu Picchu Excursion
Nelson, British Columbia, Canada
It was my first group motorcycle tour, but it will not be my last
It was an exciting, quick paced ride with an entertaining group. The leaders were always available offering encouragement, riding tips or just reliving the day over dinner.
And then of course there are the bragging rights of riding the world with Mike Kneebone and Ron Ayres.
It was my first group motorcycle tour but will not be my last!
Beverly's Adventures include:
IBA (Iron Butt Association) Ushuaia Tour
Africa Panorama Tour
Houston, Texas
Now I'm dreaming of an Ayres Adventure in South America
The planning and organization that went into the African Southern Cross made this trip very special for me. I recommend this excursion to anyone who would like a very special holiday on a motorcycle. Now I'm dreaming of an Ayres Adventure in South America!.
Andre's Adventures include:
Escape to Ushuaia
Southern Cross
Viking Run
Ottawa, Canada
All of the tours that I have taken with Ayres Adventures have been excellent from start to finish
All of the tours that I have taken with Ayres Adventures have been excellent from start to finish. The itineraries, accommodations, and activities during the tours have provided many incredible experiences. Ron and his tour leaders have a way of finding the very best in each geographic area in which they travel.
John's Adventures include:
Escape to Ushuaia
Southern Cross
Call of the Wild
Namibian Splendors
Machu Picchu Excursion
Into Africa (Cape Town to Nairobi)
White Salmon, Washington
The sixteen tours we were on with Ayres Adventures are the best we have ever been on!
“We have taken more than 20 motorcycle tours; sixteen of the last seventeen were with Ayres Adventures.
The sixteen tours that we have taken with Ayres Adventures were the best trips we have ever been on.”
Denny and Alice's Adventures include:
Call of the Wild
Best of Brazil
Southern Cross
Diamonds, Desert and Dunes (Africa)
South American Five Flags
South American Four Flags
Mediterranean Odyssey
Escape to Ushuaia
Swiss Alps and Italian Dolomites
Swiss, French and Italian Alps
Adventure Center Holiday (USA)
Escape to Colorado (USA)
Rocky Mountain Holiday (USA)
National Parks Tour (USA)
Prudhoe Bay Excursion
Best of Alaska and Canada
Portugal, Spain and Morocco
Anchorage, Alaska
The photos can't express exactly what I carry in my memory
The "Best of Alaska and Canada Adventure" was one of the most beautiful tours that we have ever done. The photos can't express exactly what I carry in my memory.
Thank you very much for everything. See you on the Africa tour, or perhaps on another USA tour.
Edison and Denise's Adventures include:
Escape to Ushuaia
BMW Motorrad Days (The Alps)
Best of Alaska and Canada
Call of the Wild Adventure (Africa)
Belo Horizonte, Brazil
We can't wait for the next one!
It’s been less than two weeks since we completed the African trilogy and I’ve wondered how I’d ever find the words to describe our feelings about this extraordinary adventure. When the October 2008 Waypoints Bulletin arrived, it gave me the perfect start. As one who had to “overcome initial apprehension about travel to the ‘Dark Continent’,” I can honestly say that none of my fears materialized. Nick and I fell in love with Africa. From day one and throughout nearly seven weeks of travel, Africa grabbed us with the warmth of the people, the cultural diversity, the mind-blowing wildlife, and the spectacular scenery. Ayres Adventures delivered in its usual superb fashion on each and every day of the three distinctly unique tours.
The “Southern Cross” could be described as “Africa 101”, offering a taste of everything—from the busy, upscale Capetown waterfront to the luxury of L’Agulhas Country Lodge, from the cultural experiences in Eshowe and Shakaland to the overall African immersion at Otter’s Den. Leaving Johannesburg at the start of the second tour, we mistakenly thought ourselves steeped in a sense of place. Then came Shibula Lodge and we realized that a very different African adventure was just beginning. The “Call of the Wild” is truly all about the wildlife—watching the elephants crossing the river in Chobe can only be termed a life-altering event. As for Namibia, we’ll never forget the sands—towering over us on the dunes and shifting under our tires as we crossed the Kalahari! But the challenge was thrilling and the landscapes incomparable.
We’ll always be grateful to the Ayres “family” with whom we shared this amazing experience. So while "doing 'Africa Ayres Adventures Style'" may be addictive, I think it’s more accurate to say that we’ve simply become addicted to Ayres Adventures. We can’t wait for the next one!
Nick and Susan's Adventures include:
New Zealand Grand Tour
Southern Cross - TWICE!
Call of the Wild - TWICE!
Namibian Splendors
Escape to Ushuaia
South American Splendors
Best of the Mediterranean
Susan wrote an article about her African trips which was published in BMW Owners News. Click here to read her article.
Upper Saddle River, New Jersey
START CITY: Puerto Varas
- Nearest international airport: El Tepual International Airport
- Airport code: PMC
- Approximate distance from city centre: 12 miles/20 kms
END CITY: Ushuaia
- Nearest international airport: Malvinas Argentinas Ushuaia International Airport
- Airport code: USH
- Approximate distance from city centre: 8 miles/12 kms
Private Tour Inquiry
We are happy to book any of our motorcycle tours as a private tour. For most tours, we require a minimum of 8 bikes or 12 participants (riders plus co-riders). We can provide a private motorcycle tour for smaller groups, but a surcharge may apply. We can also customize any of our regular tours for a private group.