Organizing a sidecar road trip in South America

Hi there, I’m planning a sidecar trip to South America for 4 or 5 months at the end of this year. I’m looking for info on shipping my vehicle by sea—possibly to Uruguay or another destination, as I haven’t finalized anything yet. How do you get visas for the countries I’ll be crossing: Uruguay, Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, and Chile? Are they e-Visas, obtained at the border, or through embassies? Where can I get vehicle insurance? Lastly, if any bikers want to join us (my partner and me), we’re open to that possibility too. Patrick

I'm planning a trip to South America by sidecar for 4 or 5 months at the end of this year.

What's the visa process for the countries I'll be crossing, namely: Uruguay, Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, Chile. e-Visa, border entry, or embassies?

Hi there,

For stays under three months, these countries don’t require a visa—check the entry requirements on the "Travel Advice" section of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Generally, if you're unsure about entry conditions (or any other formality), I call the embassy of the country in question. At least then I know the info is reliable.

https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/travel-advice/country-files/chile/#entry

https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/travel-advice/country-files/bolivia/#entry

https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/travel-advice/country-files/peru/#entry

https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/travel-advice/country-files/uruguay/#entry

https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/travel-advice/country-files/argentina/#entry

Thanks for this info—I’ll definitely keep it in mind. It’ll come in handy!

Hi. Wave Logistics does it from Rotterdam or Fos sur Mer. Shared container. 2500 € for a motorcycle (same price as for my 15 T 4x4 about... 15 years ago). Luggage stays on the bike. I’m also considering a few months down there around autumn, solo on a Himalayan 450. We can chat privately if you’d like... Marc