Best of Andes – 3 paso Tour

Duration
13 days
Difficulty Level
1/3
Location
Chile & Argentina
Distance
3150 km

Best of Andes – 3 paso Tour

Embark on the exhilarating “Best of Andes 3 Paso” tour and immerse yourself in the heart of Chile and Argentina, where you’ll connect with the vibrant cultures of these remarkable countries. This adventure will take you along some of the most exhilarating motorcycle routes Latin America, and indeed the world has to offer. Prepare to conquer three legendary mountain passes nestled within the awe-inspiring Andes mountain range: Cristo Redentor (3,200m/10,499ft), Paso Aqua Negra (4,781m/15,682ft), and Paso Pehuenche (2,554m/8,376ft).

Our journey commences in the vibrant city of Santiago, Chile, one of Latin America’s most captivating urban centers. As we make our way to Talca, Mendoza, La Serena, and Vina del Mar, we’ll traverse breathtaking landscapes and picturesque valleys, including the mesmerizing Canon del Atuel. Wine enthusiasts can savor the flavors of one of the world’s finest wine estates.

This tour is tailor-made for experienced motorcycle enthusiasts seeking an extraordinary experience. Get ready for winding mountain roads through charming villages, awe-inspiring mountain passes, and the ultimate reward of the Pacific Ocean and the enchanting beaches of Vina del Mar. Please note that this adventure is designed for those who crave the extraordinary!

Photos

Included
Motorcycle/Car rental w/unlimited milage
1st choice vehicle model class
Shared room in biker-friendly hotels
Continental breakfast at most hotels
Entrance fees Nat. parks
Welcome meeting
Multi-lingual Tour leader
Transport to rental company
Support van w/ luggage
State min. SLI insurance
Loss damage Waiver
Half-shell helmet
Tour PDF w/route description.
Pictures from the tour
NOT Included
Airfare*
Optional attractions
Vehicle model guarantee
Gas
Security deposit for LDW
Food and beverages
LDW Zero & insurance upgrades
Anything not listed in “Included” above

Itinerary

1

Day 1: Departure - Arrival Santiago, Chile

Welcome to Santiago, Chile!

As all the tour participants arrive, we come together for a heartfelt and warm welcome. Refreshments are served, providing the perfect setting for introductions and mingling. The evening’s agenda is centered around building a sense of camaraderie within the group.

Our journey begins with a delightful dinner, offering a taste of the vibrant and diverse flavors of Latin American cuisine. It’s a time to bond, share stories, and get to know one another better.

2

Day 2: Santiago

(Explorer & fun day)

Our day begins with an informative meeting that delves into the intricacies of your Best of Andes 3 Paso tour and your stay in Santiago. We will cover practical aspects such as motorcycle and car rental checkout, safety guidelines, traffic regulations, and crucial information to ensure that everyone is well-prepared for the upcoming adventure.

Following this informative session, the remainder of the day is yours to explore downtown Santiago at your leisure, tailoring your experience to your preferences. For those seeking enriching experiences, we highly recommend a visit to Cerro San Cristobal, an 860-meter hill offering attractions like a zoo, wine museum, and a gondola ride to the summit, where a statue of Virgin Mary provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Alternatively, you can explore SkyCostanera, Latin America’s tallest building, featuring Santiago’s highest viewing platform at 300 meters, affording a 360° vista of the city.

In the evening, we gather to check out our motorcycles or vehicles, ensuring everything is in order for our journey. Following this, we indulge in a delightful dinner together, setting the stage for an exhilarating adventure through the heart of Chile and Argentina. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!

3

Day 3: Santiago - Mendoza, Argentina

(Driving day 1: 338 km/240 miles)

As we prepare for our thrilling adventure tour, our gaze turns northward, fixating on one of the tour’s absolute highlights: the crossing of the Argentina border via Cristo Redentor, perched at a lofty elevation of 3,832 meters or 10,499 feet above sea level. These roads are perfectly crafted for motorcycle enthusiasts, ensuring that every meter of our journey will be a source of pure delight. It’s worth noting that the optional stretch across the actual mountain pass involves navigating a gravel road.

A well-deserved lunch break awaits us in Las Cuevas before we proceed to Puenta del Inca, an ancient Inka (Indian) village steeped in history. Along the way to Mendoza, we’ll pause to relish the panoramic view and capture photographs of Aconcagua, the grandest peak in the Andes, soaring to an astounding 6,962 meters above sea level.

Our day’s journey concludes in Mendoza, where we’ll spend a delightful evening together. Mendoza’s laid-back charm beckons with its array of cozy cafes and enticing shopping opportunities. Be sure not to miss the iconic city center fountain. Brace yourself for an unforgettable day on the road, where adventure and remarkable experiences await!

4

Day 4: Mendoza, Argentina

(Explorer & fun day)

Savor a leisurely day in Mendoza, designed to cater to your preferences. We wholeheartedly recommend indulging in “The Wine Yard Experience,” an opportunity to explore one of the world’s most renowned and exceptional wineries. This captivating program encompasses a comprehensive winery tour, a delectable restaurant brunch featuring a menu inspired by the region, an exquisite wine-tasting session, and much more.

For those seeking a more relaxed pace, you can opt to unwind at the hotel, meander through the city’s charming streets, or partake in some retail therapy. Mendoza generously offers a range of experiences to cater to your unique interests, ensuring that your day is crafted to your desires and preferences.

5

Day 5: Mendoza - Rodeo, Argentina

(Driving day 2: 363 km/225 miles)

With a fond farewell to the captivating wine country of Mendoza, we once again turn our gaze toward the majestic Andes mountains. Our path leads us northward along Ruta 40/149, with a charming pause along the way at the picturesque La Cuesta del Viento, where scenic beauty surrounds us.

Continuing on our route, we arrive at Rodeo, where we’ll delight in a memorable dinner, the perfect way to conclude a day filled with adventure and exploration. The journey continues, promising more breathtaking vistas and unforgettable moments as we journey through the Andes.

6

Day 6: Rodeo - La Serena, Chile

(Driving day 3: 373 km/232 miles)

Get ready for another tour highlight as we bid adieu to Rodeo and Argentina, embarking on an awe-inspiring journey back to Chile. Brace yourself for what promises to be one of the most breathtaking rides of your life as we navigate Ruta 150 towards the majestic Paso Agua Negra, standing tall at an awe-inspiring 4,781 meters or 15,682 feet above sea level. As we cross the Chilean border, we set forth on Ruta 41, treating you to astonishing vistas as the grandeur of the mountains unfolds before your eyes. Be sure to have your cameras ready to capture memories that will be etched in your heart forever.

On our way to La Serena, we pause at the picturesque Pisco Elqui, steeped in history as the place where Pisco was originally distilled in Chile (the town’s original name was La Greda). Our final destination for the day is La Serena, where you’ll discover beautiful beach shores and charming small villages that await your exploration.

7

Day 7: La Serena - Vina del Mar, Chile

(Driving day 6: 515 km/321 miles)

Prepare for a splendid day of riding along the stunning Chilean coastline as we venture southward towards Vina del Mar. Our route unfolds along picturesque beach shores, taking us through charming coastal villages that dot the landscape. While relishing the coastal scenery, be on the lookout for the graceful pelicans and playful sea lions that may grace us with their presence.

Our initial stop takes us to the exquisite Fray Jorge National Park, recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for its ecological significance. Continuing our southbound journey, we’ll make a couple of enjoyable pit stops in the delightful towns of Papudo and Zapallar, each offering their unique coastal charm.

As we wrap up our adventure, our final evening awaits us in the vibrant Vina del Mar, often hailed as Chile’s equivalent to St. Tropez. We’ll come together for a memorable farewell dinner, celebrating the remarkable experiences and camaraderie forged throughout our journey along the Chilean coast.

8

Day 8: Vina del Mar

(Explorer & fun day)

Today is your opportunity to be an explorer and have some fun, as the day is yours to tailor to your personal preferences. Whether you fancy a refreshing swim in the Pacific Ocean or prefer to bask in the sun on one of the stunning white beaches of Viña del Mar, it’s all about enjoying the day at your own pace.

Viña del Mar, often touted as the most luxurious resort city in Chile, presents a myriad of possibilities. Indulge your palate at one of the gourmet restaurants, and stroll amidst a blend of modern and old colonial buildings, which add a charming touch to the city, creating a laid-back atmosphere. For a touch of romance and nostalgia, consider a ride in one of the city’s typical horse-drawn cabs, adding a whimsical and memorable experience to your day. The choices are yours to make, ensuring that you make the most of your time in this enchanting coastal city.

9

Day 9: Vina del Mar - Talca, Chile

(Driving day 5: 363 km/226 miles)

Our journey south continues along scenic motorcycle roads, treating us to a captivating blend of the picturesque coastline and enchanting inland routes that wind through wine country. As we make our way, be prepared to savor a delightful meal expertly paired with delectable wines, marking our arrival in Talca, nestled in the heart of the famed wine country. This region promises a sensory experience that combines the beauty of the road with the flavors of the vine, making it a memorable part of our adventure.

10

Day 10: Talca - Valle Grande, Argentina

(Driving day 6: 486 km/286 miles)

Today, our adventure leads us through the picturesque Paso Pehuenche at an elevation of 2,554 meters or 8,376 feet, marking the final of the three mountain passes, and notably the lowest in altitude. Despite its lower elevation, this ride promises to be one of the most beautiful and enjoyable experiences yet. Envision winding roads, leisurely turns, and breathtaking natural scenery that will undoubtedly leave you in awe.

We’ll take a break for lunch at a charming local cafe near the border, allowing us to recharge before our onward journey. Our destination for the evening is Valle Grande, where we’ll settle in for a cozy and relaxing night, surrounded by the natural beauty that has become a hallmark of our remarkable adventure.

11

Day 11: Valle Grande - Mendoza, Argentina

(Driving day 7: 317 km/197 miles)

Prepare yourself for another extraordinary day as we set off on a northward journey along Route 173, venturing into the mesmerizing Canyon del Atuel. Here, you’ll be greeted by awe-inspiring views and winding roads that promise adventure and excitement. It’s essential to exercise caution when riding through Canyon del Atuel as most of the roads are unpaved, consisting of gravel paths.

Following our exhilarating ride, we’ll savor a delightful lunch in the picturesque Valle Grande, where the beauty of the surroundings complements our meal perfectly. Then, we’ll resume our course towards Mendoza, where another evening of delectable cuisine and wines from this renowned region awaits. Get ready for another day filled with unforgettable moments and breathtaking landscapes!

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Day 12: Mendoza - Santiago, Chile

(Driving day 8: 375 km/233 miles)

As our epic adventure tour through the breathtaking landscapes of Argentina, Chile, and the Andes mountains nears its conclusion, we embark on our final day of driving. This journey culminates with another remarkable highlight: crossing the Argentina-Chile border once more, retracing our steps through the mesmerizing Cristo Redentor Paso. We are fortunate to ride this majestic route once again but in the opposite direction. Please be aware that the optional stretch across the pass involves navigating a gravel road.

Our day includes stops for lunch in Uspallata and another pause in Puenta del Inca, offering us the opportunity to savor these moments and soak in the surroundings before crossing the Cristo Redentor Paso. From there, we continue our route to Santiago, where we return our vehicles and check into our hotel.

Our last evening together is marked by a heartfelt farewell dinner in Santiago, providing the perfect conclusion to our incredible journey through this remarkable region. It’s a time to reflect on the memories we’ve created and the bonds we’ve forged along the way, celebrating the adventures that will forever be etched in our hearts.

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Day 13: Departure - Home Travel

As our unforgettable adventure tour through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Argentina, Chile, and the majestic Andes mountains comes to its conclusion, it’s time for us to bid farewell to our Best of Andes Mountains tour and begin our journeys back home. We extend our sincere gratitude for choosing to tour with Explorify and for sharing the great ride and good times that have filled our days.

Note: Travelers from Europe will arrive on the date/day following their departure from the US, due to time differences.

Please bear in mind that while this program serves as a guideline for the activities and experiences on the tour, deviations may occur. However, we assure you that our dedicated and positive tour leaders will make every effort to execute the program as described, to the best of their abilities and considering the circumstances. We are committed to continually enhancing the program, so you may even encounter some delightful surprises along the way.

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Best of Andes – 3 paso Tour