FAQs

WHY CHOOSE COMPASS EXPEDITIONS?

Simple really…You get what you pay for, and with COMPASS EXPEDITIONS that phrase has never been more accurate. We invite you to look at our competitors and see what they include in their prices and you will see that there is a reason that on some occasions they are cheaper. We firmly believe that when you have paid for a tour that should be the end of digging into your wallet. You will not have any more out of pocket expenses when you arrive, other than purchases of a personal nature and a very small number of lunches and dinners. We include more sights and activities than anyone else, don't take our word for it, look at our competitors inclusions. Our itineraries are unique; no other motorcycle tour company offers such a wide variety of tours in South America.

WHAT SETS US APART

FOOD

Something quite often overlooked. We provide all breakfasts on every day of the tour and all lunches and dinners on all ride days. Our lunches are unique in that we prepare them on the spot and they consist of tasty, healthy sandwiches along with salads and water. Re-hydration is critical at altitude, especially considering that clients will be riding motorbikes, and we take our clients health seriously. All the restaurants we take our clients to have been tried and tested over the years and have proven their quality. Take a look at the competition and see how they compare.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Our accommodations are as diverse as the regions we ride through. In South America we utilise 3 to 4 star hotels on all our tours, yet depending on the tour you could find yourself wildcamping in the Patagonian wilderness or in an airconditioned cabin on a ferry up the Amazon. In Siberia we wildcamp amongst the endless Taiga or spend nights in a Mongolian Ger camp. In Scandinavia we use wonderful log cabins scenically located at the head of a vast Fjord or in Russia stay at monolithic hotels. we have spent many years in these regions and we know the best places to stay, the places that reflect and accompany the very best that the region has to offer.

OUR ACCOMMODATION STYLES

5 STAR

We use the Hotel Ritz in La Paz, Bolivia on all our tours passing through, begginning or ending in La Paz.

3-4 STAR

On most of our rides we utilise 3 to 4 star hotels chosen for their comfort, location and uniqueness. All hotels have clean linen, towels and en-suite facilities. Most of the hotels also have cable TV with numerous english speaking channels.

CAMPING

On a very few tours we camp, these are fully catered for camping nights and on our Patagonian rides we use the huge Geodesic dome tents, its hardly roughing it.

On our Major Expeditions, we wild camp and usually in spectacular locations. Wildcamping is a unique experience as they are always in a completely remote location and quite often these nights spent around a campfire under the stars remain as a tour highlight.

UNIQUE ACCOMMODATIONS

Some of our accommodations we utilise are amazing, whether it be a rustic log cabin situated overlooking a stunning lake surrounded by snow capped peaks or a traditional Ger deep within the Mongolian wilderness or even a still working Estancia in Argentina, we at Compass Expeditions strive to provide some of the best "Experience rich" accommodations going.

ENTRANCES

In keeping with our all-inclusive policy, all national park entrances, visitors' tickets, ruins entrance fees and activities, as mentioned in the “WHATS INCLUDED” section of each tour, is included in the tour price. We include high quality activities such as helicopter flights over Foz do Iguaçu and flights over the Nazca lines. We don't refer to them as premium excursions or royal tours, we simply include them. We go beyond the norm to find some of the worlds greatest motorcyle friendly roads. Again we invite you to have a look at our competitors and make a list of what's included.

ITINERARIES

A quick look at our motorcycle tours of South America and beyond ,and you will soon discover that we are a stand alone company when it comes to the motorcycle expeditions that we offer; they are unique, diverse and in most cases we are the only ones that operate in some regions. Why? Because we know South America! Having lived and worked there for nearly 20 years, with one partner still living there, we know all the great places. As well as the famous sights, we know the “off the gringo trails” and with our company you will ride the real South America. Every destination we offer we have either ridden a motorbike or lead a tour in so we have first hand experience in operating in these regions

HAVIN' A LOOK

As motorcyclists ourselves we appreciate that the main reason for joining one of or motorcycle tours is the desire to ride, however, we also take the time to stop and explore the area and never neglect important sights. We are often astounded at the pace of some other motorcycle tours operators, having lived and worked in South America for years, and we know some places just can't be rushed. After all, it is a holiday!

OUR BIKES

Our bikes are some of the best available. We use BMWs, with our fleet consisting mainly of the new BMW 650 GS twins and 1150 GS Adventures. All bikes have been upgraded to be better equipped to handle the sometimes difficult conditions that we may encounter while crossing Siberia, or riding the "Ripio" in the Patagonian far south.

OUR SUPPORT VEHICLE

Our South America Expedition support vehicle is second to none and comes equipped with a small kitchen (for those great lunches), a portable fridge, library, CD player and also has seating capacity for seven passengers. This enables us to carry some non riding passengers. We also tow a trailer for bike carrying, tools and spare parts.

OUR RIDE PROFILE SYSTEM

This ride profile system is a guide only and it should not be assumed that if a grade 4 ride, for example, is booked and a rider has had limited experience on dirt that it will be beyond them. Likewise it should not be assumed that if a grade one ride is booked a rider is assured that no dirt will be ever encountered, governments love roadworks.

We have taken a lot of care in developing these itineraries to ensure that all rides are available to even the most novice of riders. The below guide is to alert clients as to what they may expect and to gain some experience beforehand if needed.

GRADE 0NE

These rides are 100% paved roads generally in good condition and reasonable altitude. We may at times ride winding coastal and mountain roads. It must be remembered that driving styles in South America can be somewhat different to those in the west and as such a certian amount of care is of course required.

GRADE TWO

These rides are mostly paved roads that are generally in good condition, however on a very few days (2 or 3) we may ride on dirt surfaces that can be loose in sections. These rides also cross high altitude passes. It must be remembered that driving styles in South America can be somewhat different to those in the west and as such a certian amount of care is of course required.

GRADE THREE

These rides are mostly on paved roads, however these road surfaces can be in bad condition with large potholes and can be heavily traficked at times. On a very few days (2 or 3) we may ride on dirt surfaces that can be loose in sections. These rides also cross high altitude passes. It must be remembered that driving styles in South America can be somewhat different to those in the west and as such a certian amount of care is of course required

GRADE FOUR

These rides are a mix of paved and dirt, the paved roads are generally in good condition although can be narrow in sections and potholed. The dirt sections can be long and consist of loose gravel and be rutted, however a lot of dirt is hard packed. the wind in Patagonia can be ferocious and this makes riding tiring at times. On some grade 4 rides we cross a number of small shallow creek and contend with very limited sections of sand, we even spend a day riding salt pans. some of these rides can be at altitude. It must be remembered that driving styles in South America can be somewhat different to those in the west and as such a certian amount of care is of course required

GRADE FIVE

These rides are not extreme and are with the right kind of support are achievable by anyone. These rides have some long days with a lot of gravel and a little sand, in some very remote areas of South America, Australia and our Road of Bones ride, they are not rallies though and we ride at our own pace and is suitable for those with limited off roading experience.

BELOW IS A LIST OF QUESTIONS MOST COMMONLY ASKED

HOW MUCH RIDING EXPERIENCE DO I NEED?

You must have a valid motorcycle licence and ideally have had 24 months riding experience. We appreciate that all rider skill levels are different, therefore the two year requirement is not 'set in stone' but a guide only. Some off-road experience would be helpful as some of the sections we ride are of relatively easy gravel; however the majority of the riding is on tarmac. For our Australian and Kiwi riders you will have to adjust to riding on the “wrong side” of the road. All rides are suitable for pillion passengers but we recommend the rider has had pillion carrying experience.

HOW MANY KILOMETERS/MILES WILL WE RIDE PER DAY?

This figure varies greatly. Some days are as little as 150kms/93 miles while others are as much as 475kms/294 miles; only on the rarest occasions would we exceed 500kms/310miles. We try to allow as much time as possible for sightseeing and getting to a hotel mid afternoon to refresh, relax and enjoy a meal and a few drinks.

DO WE RIDE EVERY DAY?

No. While we appreciate that we are here to enjoy wonderful riding it is also important for us to be able to enjoy the incredible scenery, visit world renowned sights and immerse ourselves in the vibrant culture. We ride for a few days and stop for a day or more before moving on, depending on the itinerary. Some companies are more like a dash across South America, we stop and “smell the roses”.

WHAT WEATHER CONDITIONS ARE WE LIKELY TO ENCOUNTER?

All our tours are timed to run in the best season for riding in that particular country, not too hot, not too cold and not too wet, but mother nature being as she is, nothing can be certain. Good cold and waterproof motorbike gear is essential for the high Andes and warm gear is especially needed for the Altiplano.

WHAT RIDING GEAR DO I NEED TO BRING ALONG?

As mentioned above warm clothing is essential for the majority of tours. Your riding gear should have the ability to be altered as the day warms up, for example a jacket will have a good cold weather liner that can be removed. Two pairs of gloves, one winter and one summer, as the mornings on the high Altiplano and the Andes can be bitterly cold but quickly become warm as the sun rises in the sky. Riding boots and a good helmet are essential.

ARE THE TOURS SUITABLE FOR TWO-UP RIDING?

Absolutely. We have chosen routes that take in all the greatest sights and scenery without making them so extreme that carrying a pillion would be impossible. On a small number of days we encounter a miniscule section of road that could be difficult for two-up riding such as a creek crossing or sand, but these sections are rare and short lived. When we do encounter these sections we have the option of pillion passengers riding in the support vehicle.

CAN A NON-RIDING PASSENGER JOIN ME?

Yes. Our support vehicle can accommodate a limited number of passengers. Passengers who wish to pay support vehicle only prices are guaranteed a seat while pillion passengers who pay pillion passenger prices can elect to ride in the support vehicle if there is space. Of course as mentioned above, during any difficult sections pillion passengers will be shuttled across these sections.

HOW MANY RIDERS WILL BE IN THE GROUP?

In the spirit of real adventure we have limited the number of bikes to ten. A unique experience loses its allure when you have to jostle with up to 25 riders. It feels more like riding with a small group of friends than a “tour”. As mentioned previously, you are more than welcome to take off on your own and meet us for lunch or at the hotel at the end of the day.

WHAT HAPPENS IF MY BIKE BREAKS DOWN?

Our motorbikes are new or near new and are in excellent mechanical order before they start each expedition. In the unlikely event of a breakdown we shall endeavour to get it repaired quickly. If a spare bike is available you will be provided with that or we will rent one at the first available opportunity.

HOW CAN I STAY IN TOUCH WITH HOME?

We have in our expedition support vehicle a satellite phone that can be used on a per minute basis. Each city that we stop in you will be provided with a city fact sheet that will clearly point out, amongst other things, call centres and internet cafes.

ARE THERE ANY INCENTIVE PROGRAMS FOR TAKING MORE THAN ONE TOUR?

Of course! We reward any rider who joins us on more than one of our expeditions. We realise that a huge percentage of our custom is from repeat business and we will reward those riders and/or pillion passengers with a generous rewards program. Please view our “frequent riders program” on the home page for further information.

DO I NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE?

Absolutely, in fact it is a requirement that you have medical insurance before you join one of our tours. When purchasing travel insurance it is important to make it very clear that you will be riding a motorcycle and that it will be over 250cc. Some insurance companies include motorcycle insurance coverage in their policy but it doesn't include anything more challenging than a one day ride on a moped around Phuket. Please ensure that your policy covers you for personal accident, medical and repatriation costs as well as the usual loss of luggage, damage and theft.

WHAT ABOUT VISAS?

Check out our visa requirement guide below, however this is a guide only and it is the responsibility of the passenger to obtain the appropriate visas before joining the tour. We highly recommend the use of a visa agency who are adept at getting visas quickly and whose charges are quite reasonable.

WHAT ABOUT MEDICAL VACCINATIONS?

It is a requirement of many South American countries for all travellers entering their country to have a valid yellow fever vaccination along with the supporting document. We highly recommend that you speak with your doctor and/or check out the World Health Organisation website at www.who.int/country and have a look at their excellent International Travel and Health book, available online. In Australia, check out the Australian Travellers Medical Centre at www.traveldoctor.com.au or phone 1300 65 88 44. For our U.S clients checkout www.cdc.gov/travel/ and in the U.K, go to www.doh.gov.uk/traveladvice/ . For travel health recommendations in general have a look at www.mdtravelhealth.com

MORE INFORMATION

If the FAQ section doesn't answer your question, please send us an email and we will get back to you ASAP.

GENERAL INFORMATION FOR OUR EXPEDITIONS

WHAT DOCUMENTATION YOU NEED TO BRING

* Each rider must bring his/her original motorcycle licence and an INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT or IDP, available at you nearest motoring organisation. For example in Australia it is the RACV in Victoria, RACQ in Queensland etc (make sure they stamp the motorcycle section).

* A valid passport with plenty of pages and one that is still valid for 6 months after completion of the tour.

*Any visas that may be required.

* Most countries require an onward air ticket proving that you do not intend to live somewhere in the middle of the Amazon for the rest of your life. You must show proof of your intention to depart especially in South America.

*The original of your yellow fever vaccination certificate and the original of your travel insurance document.

AIR FLIGHTS

All airflights to and from your point of arrival and departure are your responsibility. Please try to ensure that you allow a couple of days before the scheduled tour departure to get over jet lag or just to appreciate the joining city. Although we make every endeavour to stick exactly to the itinerary, unforseen circumstances do arise occasionally and therefore we advise that you try and leave your flight a day or two after the scheduled finish of your chosen motorcycle expedition.

INCLUDED ACCOMMODATION

Accommodation is included on all nights of the advertised itinerary but it is not included if you arrive early or depart later in your joining and departing cities. All accommodation is on a twin shared basis and very occasionally multiple share hostels. For private rooms there is an extra charge. (see single room supplement on expedition PDF)

PRICES AND BOOKINGS

You can book online following the prompts in the Bookings section using your credit card, you will be emailed confirmation of your place on the tour immediately, alternatively you can pay by money order, cheque or bank transfer.

When booking we require 10% of the total tour price at booking time and to have paid the remainder in full 60 days in advance of departure date to ensure all accommodations. If you have any problems with paying the remaining lump sum, speak with us and we can arrange a STAGGERED PAYMENT OPTION, individually tailored to suit your financial situation.

Because of the small size of our groups, it is a first come first served booking. With a limited number of each bike models available we suggest you book early to avoid disappointment.

Once you have booked your tour price is fixed no matter which way the currencies head.

MINIMUM NUMBERS

On all our tours we require the minimum of 6 riders; however on our "LONDON TO MAGADAN" expedition we require a minimum of 10 riders.

YOUR CREW

On all tours you will be accompanied by a ride leader and a support vehicle driver. Both compassexpeditions crew will have completed a first aid course, will have mechanial experience on our chosen bikes and at least one will be multi-lingual.

SPENDING MONEY

Every country accepts U.S dollars. It is advisable to bring small denomination U.S notes no bigger than $50. All notes must be in perfect condition as no one will change even the slightest damaged notes. The South Americans are very particular on this.

OUR ADVERTISED SCHEDULES

Don't panic we are just covering ourselves here. We do everything humanly possible to remain exactly as per itinerary; however travel is sometimes impeded due to political unrest, strikes, landslides and other events completely beyond our control. It is within the spirit of adventure travel that we accept these events and we will ensure that we are back on schedule ASAP. The final decision on what course of action to take remains with compass expedition crew.

ONCE YOU HAVE MADE A BOOKING WITH US YOU WILL BE SENT A COMPREHENSIVE PRE-DEPARTURE BOOKLET OUTLINING EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

VISA REQUIREMENTS GUIDE FOR SOUTH AMERICA

	Nationality Brazil Chile Argentina Uruguay Peru Bolivia Australia yes no no yes no no U.S.A yes no no no no yes U.K no no no no no no Europe no no no no no no Canada yes no no no no no

This is a guide only and it is imperative that you check via a travel agent or better still visa agency as the visa situation is constantly changing.

While it is sometimes possible to get a visa at the border it is fraught with risk and is totally at the discretion of the border guard who happens to be on duty that day.

Please refer to visa chart above for South American visa requirements.

This is a guide only and it is imperative that you check with a travel agent or visa agency.

Visas are your responsibility.

WHAT ARE THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF PURCHASING FROM COMPASS?

Click here for details of our terms and conditions. For further information please email us.