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FAQ

Welcome to our Ride Encanta FAQ! Below, you’ll find answers to the most common questions about our guided motorcycle tours in Northern Chile and the Atacama Desert. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to contact us.

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Please notify us in advance and we will do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions. Options may be limited in remote areas. The best approach is to discuss your needs with us as early as possible. 

What kind of food is included?

We will provide just about every meal, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Our goal is to curate meals that show the best of the regional cuisine. You’ll enjoy fresh seafood, traditional Chilean dishes, and Andean flavors. Lunches may be picnic-style or at local eateries, depending on location. 

 

What kind of hotels do we stay in?

We select high-quality and/or best-available hotels depending on the location. In cities, expect well-located business-class hotels or better. In more remote areas, options are limited, so we choose the best local options, balancing comfort and adventure. Let us know if you have any questions. 

How do I book a tour?

You can book directly through our website or contact us for assistance. A deposit is required to secure your spot, with the full payment due before departure.

What is your cancellation policy?

  • 12+ months before departure: Full refund
  • 6-12 months before departure: 85% refundable
  • 3-6 months before departure: 50% refund
  • 45 days -3 months: 20% refundable
  • less than 45 days: non-refundable
     

Net of transaction and currency costs
Credit for future tours may be apply

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept PayPal, bank transfers, and credit cards.

Do I need to speak Spanish?

Chile is a Spanish speaking country, and many locals do not speak English, especially in small towns. Many of the places we visit are not geared to English speaking visitors. Chileans are known for their warmth and hospitality, so lack of Spanish will not be a problem. 

We will provide you with tools and tricks to help communications, and our guides are bilingual and will assist with translations and cultural interactions.

What is the local culture like?

Northern Chile is home to a mix of modern cities, indigenous communities, and remote desert towns. Chileans are friendly and welcoming. Family, friends, and food are very important, and that results in in easy acceptance of newcomers. We're excited to share with you the experience of local traditions, historic sites, and unique landscapes.

Do I need prior off-road riding experience?

Our tours vary in difficulty, but all are designed around road travel - paved and unpaved. Some tours are mostly paved roads, but most require experience with varied road conditions due to gravel, sand, and rugged terrain. If you're unsure, contact us, and we’ll recommend the right tour for your skill level.

How many riders are in a group?

Our trips are limited to 6 riders plus guide. This group size allows us to ensure a personalized experience for every client, smoother logistics, and better flexibility and adaptability for every trip. 

What kind of terrain can I expect?

Our tours are designed around road travel, but you can expect a mix of paved highways, gravel roads, dirt trails, and sand tracks. Some routes include high-altitude mountain passes, salt flats, and desert landscapes.

What makes your motorcycle tours unique?

We combine Chilean and North American expertise to provide off-the-beaten-path exploration, and immersive cultural experiences in a region not attuned to foreign travelers. We combine thoughtfully-guided routes with curated accommodations, great local food, and a dedicated support truck, ensuring you get the most out of your ride without worrying about logistics.

Our goal is to make it easy to visit the Atacama and get off the obvious path. 

 

What’s included in the tour package?

Our goal is to take care of everything - or as much of everything as possible. One price, that's it.

  • Single occupancy accommodations. (3 star average, better when available.)
  • Transfers to- and from- Antofagasta airport.
  • Motorcycle rental, luggage, gas, tolls.
  • Bilingual Guides (English/Spanish)
  • Chase vehicle with mechanic and part support.
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Lunches might be picnic style, dinners will focus on the best local/regional cuisine available
  • First aid capabilities.
  • Entrance fees to monuments and attractions.
  • Water.

you're on your own for alcohol, optional activities, personal items, insurance, etc. 

Where do your tours operate?

Our focus is providing expert guidance in Northern Chile, including the Atacama Desert, but also offer select routes in adjacent regions west and north across the Andes.

How do I get to the starting location?

Most tours start and end in Antofagasta, Chile. We provide recommendations for flights and transportation. Our tours include airport transfers.

Is fuel availability a concern?

Yes, fuel stations are very scarce in remote areas, but with us, you don't need to worry about it. Our routes are planned with fuel in mind, we know where is is and isn't available, and the support truck carries extra fuel as necessary to ensure no one runs out.

What happens if my bike breaks down?

Our fleet of new CFMoto Ibex 450 motorcycles is well maintained and very reliable. Our support truck carries spare parts and tools for most common repairs. If your bike can’t be fixed on the spot, we’ll arrange for a replacement or a solution to keep you riding.

What happens in case of a medical emergency?

Safety is a key priority for us. This starts with our route planning, our approach to managing risks, and our group orientation material. Guides are trained in first aid, we carry a satellite communication device in case of emergencies, and we maintain contact lists and emergencies services along our routes. In extreme cases, we can coordinate medical evacuations.

Will I be covered by insurance?

Our tours and motorcycles are covered by basic 3rd party insurance. You will need travel medical insurance to cover medical needs, and may consider travel insurance for emergencies or cancellations. 

You are responsible for any damages to the motorcycle. Optional damage waiver coverage is available. 

Can non-riding companions join?

Our tours are generally not designed with pillions in mind. If you are accustomed to travelling with a passenger across varied terrain and road conditions, Please contact us and we can discuss your options. 

What should I pack?

We provide a detailed packing list before departure, covering everything from riding gear to personal essentials.

What’s the best time of year to ride in Northern Chile?

Temperatures are generally mild all year round. The best riding seasons are February–May and September–November, with mild temperatures and clear skies. Summer (Dec–Feb) can be hot during the day, while winter (June–Aug) can bring colder temperatures at high altitudes.

What fitness level is required?

You should be in good physical condition to handle long riding days, high altitudes, and off-road terrain. The desert can be physically demanding, so stamina and hydration are key.

What license do I need to participate?

You must acquire an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a valid motorcycle endorsement based on your home country licensing system. 

 

 

What riding gear is required?

One of the few things we want you to provide is your gear. We require all riders to wear:

  • Full-face or ADV-style helmet
  • Motorcycle jacket with armor
  • Riding pants with armor or reinforced jeans
  • Gloves and sturdy riding boots

We will provide recommendations for gear and accessories that will make the experience most comfortable. Please contact us if you want to access gear locally. 

What type of motorcycles do you provide?

We have a fleet CFMoto Ibex 450 adventure motorcycles. This well-reviewed model sits in an ADV motorcycle sweet spot... light enough that makes challenging riding conditions easy, but big enough to be comfortable for a full day of riding. 

Still Have Questions?

Feel free to contact us for more details or to discuss which tour is right for you. We look forward to riding with you in Chile! 🏍️🏜️