Roads in Patagonia
 

Looking to buy a vehicle to explore south america, especially the patagonia region. How are the roads there, how much clearance do I need, and will I need 4wd? I am in Santiago and car shopping, so I am trying to figure out what is appropriate.
thanks

Many roads are asphalted, and those that aren't will usually have been graded at least once a season. There are stretches of rta 40, for example, that can get slippery when wet, with occasional deep puddles and soft patches. A carefully driven 2wd will cope with a bit of "spirited driving" in bad conditions, but given the fact that 4wds are generally tougher built and have more clearance as standard, that might be a better bet, if only to give you more confidence (Toyota Rav 4 or Suzuki/Chevvy vitara perfectly adequate at the smaller end of the scale). (A 2cv or Renault 4 would be just as good though I expect!) If you're in a 2wd, take 2 spare tyres as they're usually not as tough as 4wd and sharp stones and gravel tracks not their natural environment.
If you're on a tight budget, I would choose a well maintained 2wd over an old unreliable 4wd unless you like a challenge and like looking at the (admittedly generally stunning) scenery!
Above all, enjoy the trip and don't obsess too much about the car as long as it's reliable.
Travel safe,
Simon.

What Car/Truck
 

Hi Cyclist

Good advice from Simon, especially "A 2cv or Renault 4 would be just as good". Enjoy.

Regards, Mick
(Currently riding in Patagonia)

A Lotus 7 would be fun too Mick:thumbup1:

tires?
 

On a similar note, I am heading down south but now am in Santiago. Probably will be the best opportunity to get some tires for my KLR--what's the general consensus--dual sport tires or knobbies?
Thanks,
Dave

We travelled Patagonia 2-up on Dual Sport without to much problem. There are big stretches of pavement as well as big stretches of gravel so to me it made sense.

Just take is slow, but it is an amazing journey. The Caraterra Austral was one of the best experiences I´ve had