What is the best motorcycle for Expedition Amazona?
Any dual-purpose motorcycle suitable for on and off-pavement travel. If riding a big adventure bike, please have the skills and physicality to match the size, weight, and performance of your machine. Motorcycles in the 650 cc range are more than adequate.
Are rentals available?
Yes but the real advantage is your ability to use your own personal motorcycle. Rentals, however, are available upon request. Give us a call or email us for consultation.
Where will you ship the motorcycles from?
We have for many years ocean freighted motorcycles out of Houston, Texas, using a long time contact and warehouse. You should expect to have your motorcycle in Houston at least a month in advance of the tour date.
How can I get my motorcycle to Houston?
You can bring it to the secure warehouse that is located very close to Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). You may want to have it professionally freighted to Houston. Consider using Federal Companies who specialize in motorcycle transport around the country.
Do we carry our own luggage?
Yes. At least a good share of it. We intend to carry a few select items but we will strictly observe a limit of what you will be able to put in the support vehicle. We have found this to be the best policy on longer adventure tours. Pack light. Pack smart.
Is this a good ride to bring a passenger?
Yes, but we prequalify that by stating that we do not recommend this journey to be an “introduction” to third world adventure touring. Prior experience in more primitive conditions is recommended as well as off-road experience riding with a passenger.
What kind of tires should I use?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions. We won’t go into this now. This will be addressed in detail as well as gear, finances, communications and everything you will need to know, in our comprehensive Information Booklet. Rest assured, you will be confidently prepared for the Amazona.
What will the weather be like?
The window for ideal travel conditions is narrow in this part of South America. Rain is always a possibility. Expect extremes from warm tropics to colder temperatures briefly in the Andes.
How difficult is the ride?
Amazona is not a technically challenging ride for experienced touring enthusiasts. Most unpaved roads are reasonably well maintained but suffer from stretches of construction and deterioration from use and require the usual diligence and awareness. This is not a ride for a novice.
Are visas required?
Yes, for US citizens you will need a Brazil visa in advance. The subject of visas and documents are heavily covered in our pre-tour information materials
Is it safe?
There are no threatening political issues in the region. It is a primitive area of the continent and while personal safety is not considered a problem, one should be aware of the risks. Limited medical facilities provide inspiration to ride safely and with caution.
How early should I make my reservation?
Now! Please do not delay. We will need to ship your motorcycle well in advance of the tour date and the process of arranging documents and preparing logistics is not conducive to last-minute registrations.
How big will the group be?
We are limiting this to ten bikes plus staff.