Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Regional Forums > SOUTH AMERICA
SOUTH AMERICA Topics specific to South America only.
Photo by Helmut Koch - Vivid autumn colors in Canada

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by Helmut Koch
Vivid autumn colors in Canada



Like Tree1Likes

Reply
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #16  
Old 14 Aug 2007
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: London
Posts: 9
Another recommendation for Magallanes, Las Condes, Santiago

Quote:
Originally Posted by zappalives View Post
Just wanted to write and say that I bought insurance from Magallanes in Las Condes and it worked out great. Go there, tell them how long you need insurance for, and your golden for all of south america. 6 months for all the countries down here cost me 130 US dollars. Just be make sure they charge you the right price, my friend who doesnt speak very good spanish ended up paying over 300 dollars for 4 months..... But for me all went well, it took me 15 minutes and now I have now worries for wherever I go
My experience with Magallanes was very similar this June. Fast and easy even with my beginner's Spanish. Cost about $US60 for two months.
Reply With Quote
  #17  
Old 27 Oct 2008
Registered Users
HUBB regular
 
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: london
Posts: 57
3rd party insurance

I hear the 3rd party insurance in South Am isnt worth the paper its written on, does anyone know if I can arrange a policy from the UK? Iam a UK citizen buying a bike in the states, going through Mexico and Central America, following the Pan Am on a Harley, leavin in 8 days and kinda pooping my pants about the great unknown!
Dan, Ultra Classic Electra Glide(what a mouthful)
Reply With Quote
  #18  
Old 28 Oct 2008
fastfreddy's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Oct 2006
Location: Todos Santos,B.C.S ,MEXICO
Posts: 173
insurance

try MOTO EXPRESS in New YORK,NY
Reply With Quote
  #19  
Old 29 Oct 2008
Registered Users
HUBB regular
 
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: winnipeg, MB, CDN
Posts: 71
Insurance

You might want to try this company for third party liability, collision and theft. This is a US company that I used a couple of times for travel through Central and South America. They are not cheap, and I never had a claim so I do not really know how good the policy is. I was particually concerned with theft insurance. They do insure bikes from other countris. They did Insure my Canadian Registered Bike with my Canadian address.

Also, you need seperate insurance for Mexico. You might want to do this through the internet, rather than purchasing from which ever agent is closest to the border crossing. The Sunrise Group will give you recommendations for a Mexican Company.

THE SUNRISE GROUP
816 Executive Drive
Oviedo, FL 32765
Phone: 407-977-7001
Fax:407-977-7004
Website: sunriseworldwide.com
__________________
1 LIFE
Reply With Quote
  #20  
Old 14 Nov 2008
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: Aberdeen, Scotland
Posts: 5
Insurance for Chile and Argentina

Heres my tuppence worth based on a frustrating day. Im currently in Iquique Chile and have just organised insurance. I should probably mention that I am Scottish with a US registered bike. I was trying to get a 60 day policy to cover both Chile and Argentina. The first company, Penta Securities got as far as issuing the paperwork before I pointed out that the policy did not include Chile. It was classed as an International policy and covered Argentina, Brasil, Peru, Bolivia and Uruguay but not Chile. It was $100US for 45days cover. I cancelled. The second company, Magallanes, could either issue a National Policy for Chile or an International policy covering previous countries. I went with the National policy so at least I was covered in Chile. However once they had issued documents, I had been charged $50US for a policy with $1000US liability - for vehicles only, not people. I cancelled in the belief that it would not be acceptable under law. The girl said it was all she could sell me. Eventually went to Vivar Street - there are several brokers there selling insurance. I ended up with something that cost 30,000pesos (about $50) and gives $11,000liability - not a lot really. I think it it probably the miniumum required by law. At least I have an insurance card to show if need be. Once I get closer to Argentina I will organise a seperate policy specifically for Argentina. Unfortunately I speak no spanish and am extremely wary of the insurance being sold - as someone else mentioned I dont believe its worth the paper written on.

I should also mention that I investigated insurance for Peru in Pirua - the best I could do was $175. I decided to do without. I got stopped twice by the police. Only once did they check documents and thankfully never requested my insurance. However it does not make for a relaxing journey in the knoweledge that you could get pulled. This is probably a bigger factor than the worry / risk of actually having an accident.
Reply With Quote
  #21  
Old 20 Nov 2008
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Brisbane, Australia.
Posts: 19
which company?

grahamshee - which company did you end up going through?

Our bikes arrive in Valparaiso in a couple of days, so have to organise Chilean insurance. Did you need the bike with you to get the insurance or just organise it with the necessary paperwork?
cheers
__________________
Take it easy!

Nick

www.amigosonmotos.blogspot.com
Reply With Quote
  #22  
Old 24 Nov 2008
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: Aberdeen, Scotland
Posts: 5
BCI Seguros

My Chile insurance is with BCI Seguros. I think it may be part of the BCI banking group and believe them to be a sound company. Although mine was organised with an agent, they have offices and it may be possible to contact them directly. I was in their office today in Talca trying to organise insurance for Argentina. You will need your passport and vehicle documents. I would also suggest your driving licence. From memory I used my hotel address which was OK. You do not need to show the bike.

As an aside, I tried to organise insurance today with Magallanes for Argentina. Having got through all the formalities of discussing the policy, they were unable to issue one because the computer would not recognise my Alaska licence plate. I think this was a polite way of telling me that they would only issue to Chile vehicles / residents. Hence my visit to BCI. I also spoke with another company who could issue a policy (unfortunately I forget their name) but more expensive than Magallanes with less liability cover. I plan to pursue Magallanes further at a different office - I may have been unkucky with that particular girl.

If your planning extensive travel in South America I would suggest contacting the Sunrise Group in Florida - details elsewhere on this thread. May be less hassle than organising locally.
Reply With Quote
  #23  
Old 25 Nov 2008
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Brisbane, Australia.
Posts: 19
Magallanes a no go...

Grahamshee,

thanks for that info. We might try BCI.

It's quite funny, we went to Magallanes today as well and got the exact same resonse. The girls were very helpful and polite, but then it was a case of "they can't put our passport numbers into the computer". They then went off to check with their boss and came back and told us that they could only supply insurance for Chilean residents.

Perhaps you talked to the same people.
__________________
Take it easy!

Nick

www.amigosonmotos.blogspot.com
Reply With Quote
  #24  
Old 4 Dec 2008
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: UK but currently on the road RTW
Posts: 206
Chile & Argentina Insurance

Sir Fries,

How have you got on with your pursuit of insurance?

I arrived in Santiago today and my bike is due to arrive in Valparaiso from Singapore on Monday (08/12). It's a UK registered bike and I'm a UK citizen.

It would be nice to get something sorted out here in Santiago tomorrow or in Valparaiso early next week.

Adam
__________________
ShortWayRound - OTR RTW since 2006

Photo Galleries

ShortWayRound/Facebook
Reply With Quote
  #25  
Old 5 Dec 2008
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Brisbane, Australia.
Posts: 19
more seguros

Hey Adam,

We had assistance from Martina and Enzo from Villa Kunterbunt in clearing customs in Valparaiso (highly reccommended btw, especially if you´re not familiar with the system) and Enzo was adamant that you don´t need insurance for Chile, so we haven´t worried about Chilean insurance so far. We haven´t had any involvement with the Carabineros yet though, so not 100% sure whether we´ll have any problems.

We got a message from Grahamshee saying that he managed to get the international insurance from Magallanes in Concepcion, so we stopped by there today and got ours there too. It was simple and quick. Probably took us about 20mins in the office and covers us for the Mercorsur countries (Argentina, Brasil, Bolivia, Peru, Uruguay, Paraguay). Cost was about 80 000 Chilean Pesos for 5 months and about 67 000 CLP for 3 months.

Sorry, I don´t have any other suggestions for places to try in Santiago or Valparaiso. I did see some places in Valpo advertising Seguro Obligatorio though on Av Colon I think. So you could try there. I have no idea if they are reputable at all, but from what I read on this site you´re mostly paying for a piece of paper to keep the police off your back and not an insurance policy that´s worth anything anyway...

good luck! If you´re heading Sth let us know & we can suggest a couple of places to visit.

ciao
__________________
Take it easy!

Nick

www.amigosonmotos.blogspot.com
Reply With Quote
  #26  
Old 5 Dec 2008
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: UK but currently on the road RTW
Posts: 206
Thumbs up Thank you & yes please

Hi Nick,

Many thanks for your swift and informative reply. I have emailed Martina & Enzo and await their reply.

I will be travelling south but not until after the Dakar rally which I hope to get to see in a few places.

I would welcome any recommendations you care to send my way. Are you still in the south? If so, perhaps we'll meet when you turn north.

All the Best

Adam

Short Way Round
__________________
ShortWayRound - OTR RTW since 2006

Photo Galleries

ShortWayRound/Facebook

Last edited by JediMaster; 5 Dec 2008 at 18:31. Reason: spelling mistakes!
Reply With Quote
  #27  
Old 6 Dec 2008
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Panama
Posts: 187
No requirement at border in Chile

I entered Chile yesterday from Peru -- Tacna to Arica -- and no mention was made at the border about a requirement for insurance in Chile. Lets see what happens if I get stopped by cops.
__________________
Steve Barnett
Panama City, Panama

Reply With Quote
  #28  
Old 23 Dec 2008
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: UK but currently on the road RTW
Posts: 206
Unhappy Magellanes

I went to a Magellanes office in Santiago last week. A local motorcyclist came with me to make sure I got the right policy and paid the right price.

However, it was not possible because there computer system only allows for a 6 digit registration/licence plate and my UK licence plate is 7 digits.

I'm in Valparaiso ow and still looking. If/When I find a solution I'll post the answer.
I plan to go to Argentina on Saturday but I'm not sure if they'll ket me through without insurance given that any insurance office further on is likely to be closed.

Any suggestions?

Adam
__________________
ShortWayRound - OTR RTW since 2006

Photo Galleries

ShortWayRound/Facebook
Reply With Quote
  #29  
Old 23 Dec 2008
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Brisbane, Australia.
Posts: 19
no questions at border...

Hey Adam,

no suggestions, but we just crossed into Argentina for the first time at San Sebastian on Tierra del Fuego and they didn´t ask for insurance. Was quick and simple.

I know others have had trouble though, so I couldn´t say for sure that you´d get through with out it.

Good luck and I hope you get through without any hassels.
Nick
__________________
Take it easy!

Nick

www.amigosonmotos.blogspot.com
Reply With Quote
  #30  
Old 1 Apr 2009
Registered Users
HUBB regular
 
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: cheshire UK
Posts: 53
Bike from UK

Quote:
Originally Posted by zappalives View Post
Just wanted to write and say that I bought insurance from Magallanes in Las Condes and it worked out great. Go there, tell them how long you need insurance for, and your golden for all of south america. 6 months for all the countries down here cost me 130 US dollars. Just be make sure they charge you the right price, my friend who doesnt speak very good spanish ended up paying over 300 dollars for 4 months..... But for me all went well, it took me 15 minutes and now I have now worries for wherever I go
Hi there - I turned up at the office of Magallanes complete with somebody to translate for me and they would not insure me? They had great difficulties inputting my foreign registration into their system. In the end, and after several phone calls 'upstairs' they said no. It seems that they were concerned (in the event of a claim) that I would be out of the country and so would not be able to contest any court action?

Now in Santiago (1st April 2009) and pondering options. The police said (when my translator rang them) just show your UK (invalid) insurance!
Reply With Quote
Reply


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 
Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On


Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
3rd party insurance Ukraine, Russia, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, KenButler Europe 14 12 Nov 2013 10:42
Morocco 3rd Party Insurance mquarterman Trip Paperwork 21 8 Feb 2007 23:18
3rd party insurance in OZ simonrjames Australia / New Zealand 2 14 Jul 2004 08:15
3rd Party Compulsory Insurance for m/c. faust Trip Paperwork 1 17 Mar 2004 16:50
South America 3rd Party and/or medical Insurance AJ Trip Paperwork 2 30 Jun 2002 04:09

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now
, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

ALL Dates subject to change.

2024:

  • California: April 18-21
  • Virginia: April 25-28
  • Germany Summer: May 9-12
  • Québec: May 17-19
  • Bulgaria Mini: July 5-7
  • CanWest: July 11-14
  • Switzerland: August 15-18
  • Ecuador: August 23-25
  • Romania: August 30-Sept 1
  • Austria: September 12-15
  • France: September 20-22
  • Germany Autumn: Oct 31-Nov 3

2025:

  • Queensland is back! May 2-4 2025!
  • CanWest: July 10-13 2025
  • France: September 19-21 2025

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

HUBBUK: info

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

Adventurous Bikers – We've got all your Hygiene & Protection needs SORTED! Powdered Hair & Body Wash, Moisturising Cream Insect Repellent, and Moisturising Cream Sunscreen SPF50. ESSENTIAL | CONVENIENT | FUNCTIONAL.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.




All times are GMT +1. The time now is 19:49.