South America is a paradise for motorcycle enthusiasts, offering some of the most awe-inspiring and challenging roads on the planet. From rugged mountains to expansive deserts and lush jungles, here’s an extensive guide to my top 10 dream roads across this diverse continent.
1. The Deathroad in Bolivia
Starting from La Paz, Bolivia’s Death Road (Yungas Road) is legendary among thrill-seekers. This hair-raising route descends from the Andes into the Amazon rainforest, navigating narrow paths with steep cliffs and breathtaking drops. Despite its reputation, the scenery of lush greenery and cascading waterfalls makes it a must-ride for adventurers. Read here why: How I survived The Death Road in Bolivia
2. Torres del Paine, Chile
Located in Chilean Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its towering granite peaks, glaciers, and pristine lakes. Riding through this remote wilderness offers unparalleled views of rugged landscapes and abundant wildlife, including guanacos and condors. Read more: El Chalten, Torres Del Paine and Puerto Natales – Amazing National Park
3. Carretera Austral, Chile
Stretching over 1,200 kilometers from Puerto Montt to Villa O’Higgins, the Carretera Austral is a mecca for motorcycle travelers seeking remote and stunning landscapes. This gravel road winds through fjords, temperate rainforests, and snow-capped mountains, providing challenging terrain and unforgettable vistas at every turn.
4. Chile Chico, Chile
Perched on the southern shores of General Carrera Lake, Chile Chico offers breathtaking views of turquoise waters and the Andean mountains. The journey to this remote town provides a serene escape, with opportunities to explore nearby marble caves and witness the region’s unique blend of Chilean and Argentinean cultures. Read here my article: Cochrane to Perito Moreno – Another One of the Most Beautiful Days in my Life
5. Valle de la Luna Chile
Just outside San Pedro de Atacama in northern Chile, Valle de la Luna is a surreal landscape resembling the surface of the moon. This desert terrain features salt flats, towering dunes, and rugged rock formations sculpted by wind and water over millennia. Riding through Valle de la Luna is a mesmerizing experience that showcases the stark beauty of Chile’s Atacama Desert. Read more: Atacama and Valle de la Luna – One of The World’s Most Beautiful Places
6. Quilotoa Loop, Ecuador
Located in the Ecuadorian Andes, the Quilotoa Loop is a scenic route that circles the Quilotoa Crater Lake. Riders traverse remote villages, verdant valleys, and high-altitude páramo ecosystems, encountering indigenous communities and enjoying panoramic views of the turquoise lake and surrounding volcanoes. Read more: Chucchilan to Puyo – From the Andes to the Amazon
7. Canon del Pato, Peru
Nestled in the Cordillera Blanca mountain range of northern Peru, Cañón del Pato (Duck Canyon) is a dramatic gorge carved by the Santa River. The route through this canyon is a thrilling adventure, with winding roads that hug sheer cliffs and offer spectacular views of waterfalls cascading down rugged mountainsides. Read more: Riding The Incredible Canon Del Pato on a Motorbike
8. Vinicunca Mountains, Peru
Hidden deep in the Peruvian Andes, Vinicunca is famous for its stunning striped mountains, known as Rainbow Mountain. This natural wonder features vibrant mineral deposits that create a surreal palette of colors against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Riding to Vinicunca allows for an up-close exploration of this geological marvel and breathtaking panoramic views. Read more: Vinicunca – The Amazing Rainbow Mountains in Peru
9. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
The Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat, spanning over 10,000 square kilometers in southwestern Bolivia. During the dry season, the vast expanse of blinding white salt creates a mirror-like effect that reflects the sky, making it appear as if you’re riding through an endless sea of clouds. This surreal landscape and the surrounding volcanic islands offer a once-in-a-lifetime motorcycle adventure. Read more: Salar de Uyuni – Crossing The Worlds Largest Salt Desert
10. Transpantaneira, Brazil
Traversing the Pantanal, the largest tropical wetland on Earth, the Transpantaneira in Brazil offers a unique wildlife experience. Riders journey through marshlands, savannas, and flooded plains, encountering diverse wildlife such as caimans, capybaras, and rare bird species. The highlight is the possibility of spotting jaguars, making it a bucket-list destination for nature enthusiasts. Read more: The Legendary Transpantaneira
Conclusion
Embarking on a motorcycle journey through South America is a testament to the continent’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Each of these top 10 dream roads offers a unique and exhilarating ride, promising unforgettable experiences amidst some of the planet’s most spectacular scenery. Whether you seek challenging mountain passes, serene lakeside routes, or surreal desertscapes, South America delivers a motorcycle adventure of a lifetime. So, rev up your engine, pack your gear, and embark on your own epic journey through these incredible destinations!
