US (California) to Ushuia (+Antarctica)
 

I posted an earlier thread on Russia, but want to make this separate to keep it straight. I am planning a trip to ride from South America back to California starting in December/January 2009-10 and have a few questions.

1. Any ideas on shipping to this area? I want to be in Ushuia, but do not need to land the bike there. What is the most reasonable route to ship? Air freight or sea? I live close to Los Angeles so getting to the shipping area is not a big problem.
2. Any ideas of direction/'have to' places to travel?
3. I would like to see Antarctica, but do it on a budget. Is it possible to 'pick up' a trip that is organizing while I am there and same a bit of money?

Thank you for your answers...I am just starting out with this planning!

Chris

Antarctica trips
 

Chris,
Yes, it is possible to pick up a last minute Antarctica trip with very little planning. I did it last month. The agent in Ushuaia that I used, and highly recommend, is Alicia Petiet (alicia@antarcticatravels.com tel: +549 (2901) 512589) She was able to get me on a very good ship at about 40% discount. Great service. However, try to call her at least a few days (or a week) before you arrive in Ushuaia if you want to have the best chance of getting on a trip. I know several people who tried with various agencies after they arrived and left disappointed. The shipping companies release these last minute deals about 10 days before sailing, so if you wait until you're there you might have to wait to get on a ship (if at all).
Antarctica was the highlight (among many great experiences) of my trip. It's expensive, but well worth it.

Some additional ideas on your questions:

First, you might actually be able to ship to Ushuaia. Maersk and a few others have large operations there.

Otherwise, take a look at shipping to Buenos Aires. The ride from BA to Ushuaia is hideously, mind numbingly BORING, but you will have to do it at some point. I would figure on the first 3-4 days as being kind of an anesthetic. Then from Ushuaia head up the Carretera Austral and Ruta 40 in Chile and Argentina and continue up the Pacific side of South America. Since you'll only be able to go on one side, I think this is the most interesting.

Vancouver to Ushuaia
 

Hey Chris,
Me and my buddy plan to do similar thing. I live in Calgary, AB so, we'd like to ship the bikes to Buenos Aires or ideally to Ushuaia from here (AB or BC) or from the States (west coast). We plan the trip for September 09 but who knows, plan may change and maybe we can share the shipping costs and so on. Anyway, keep me informed if you find something out. I'll let you know if I get any new info.
Cheers,
Filip

ps: here's my last trip

VIDEO-the best of PERU on Motorcycles-COLCA Canyon - Jan 2009 - ADVrider


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:mchappy: