Following Che through South America – Argentina, Chile, and Peru, they are the new destinations listed. Live an amazing experience visiting the places visited by the iconic Che Guevara in his quest for adrenaline and his eagerness to know the world. Get ready for a long trip, only for lovers of nature, history and of course, adventure.
Things to do
Argentina
The route leaves Córdoba, Argentina, the place where this character was born. Before being the famous and well-known revolutionary, Ernesto Guevara was a 23-year-old common student thirsty for adventure. This was how on January 4, 1952, along with his dear friend Alberto Granado, they began this 8-month trip, which led them to visit South America. The friends were riding a 500cc Norton motorcycle, called La Poderosa (The Powerful One).
You can take advantage of taking a look at Córdoba before leaving. Without a doubt, this is an amazing city, full of activities and things to do, it is impossible to get bored. One of the most exciting is a walk in the Los Cocos Aerosillas. This place is also known as “Punilla balcony” due to its height. From here you will have the most incredible panoramic views of the city.
The trip continues to Chile, however, Che and his partner made a small 8-day stop in Miramar, a small city in Argentina to visit what was Che’s girlfriend in those days. In this city, activities such as fishing, airplane rides stand out from which you can admire the place from another perspective. In addition, you can also visit the La Ballenera lagoon and the Miramar municipal nursery.
Lakes Crossing
This is a place you can’t miss. From Bariloche, you are presented with a route that connects Argentina with Chile, the Lake Crossing, also known as the Andean Crossing, because it is located in the Andean mountain range. You can make this trip from different means of transport such as buses and boats. On the other hand, you can not miss the wonderful views of the steep mountains, forests, lakes of crystalline and dark waters, imposing peaks and even glaciers.
Chile
Crossing roads, mountains, and dry and hot deserts, the journey continues to Lautaro. In this interesting city, Che and Alberto had a small setback and had to stop to repair the motorcycle. Meanwhile, you can enjoy the wonderful attractions that Lautaro has for you. One of the main places is Isabel Riquelme Park, which has an amazing fish farm, lakes, and camping areas. In addition, you can not miss the Plaza Doctor Domingo Montebruno López, with beautiful trees and an incredible and cozy environment.
On the other hand, you cannot miss visiting the capital, Santiago de Chile. Right in this place Che’s motorcycle and his companion definitely broke down. However, you can enjoy the charming and incredible European style that characterizes the Chilean capital. During your visit to Santiago, check out the imposing Palacio de la Moneda or the Memory Museum. Also, if you are a nature lover, Cerro San Cristóbal and Cerro Santa Lucia will be waiting for you.
Peru
Without a doubt, this part of the trip left Guevara impressed. Living the complete experience when moving in a truck together with native Indians of the place and knowing the Inca civilization is something wonderful to tell. Of course, it is impossible not to visit Cusco, where Che borrowed a car and toured this sacred place. Live this wonderful experience along the Inca trail and admire the ancient Machu Picchu.
How to get there
The tour starts from Córdoba, Argentina. You can arrive directly at the Ambrosio Taravella International Airport (COR) and from there look for the most appropriate and comfortable way to make the rest of the trip. You can go backpacking, rent a motorcycle or a car, which is the most advisable to live the full experience.
When to go
Starting in January, it allows you to explore Patagonia in the summer of the southern hemisphere and then reach the Atacama in the coolest autumn.
How long do I go for
It is a journey of approximately 5,000 miles (8,050 km). In this way, it allows at least one month for the entire trip.
Opening and Closing Hours
It is best to start the trip early to avoid taking the road at night. Take the night to rest and enjoy the whole day to know the different destinations.
Planning
You can rent all-terrain motorcycles from Renta Moto in Buenos Aires. For information on places along the route, see the South American Explorers Club online bulletin board. Depending on how your travel mode is, it is best to plan everything with time, hotel reservations, cars or other additional activities. It is recommended to always carry a sleeping tent.
Inside Information
Alberto, Che’s friend, continued to Colombia and Venezuela, but without his motorcycle, which was not suitable for the terrain. So, finish your trip in Machu Picchu, a sublime endpoint. Remember to wear the right clothes, sunscreen and always have your identification documents. If you travel by car or motorcycle, watch out for spare rubbers and gasoline.
History
Ernesto Rafael Guevara de la Serna, better known as Che Guevara, was born in 1928 and lived almost all his childhood and adolescence in Córdoba, Argentina. He was a 23-year-old medical student eager to start a new adventure. Together with his friend Alberto Granado, a 29-year-old biochemist, they embarked on a long journey through South America. Despite the age difference between these two friends, they had been friends for a long time. Both shared an intellectual curiosity and an adventurous spirit.
Without a doubt, it was an exciting and difficult trip for a couple of friends. After their motorcycle finally broke down in Chile, they were “lazy without wheels,” as Guevara described it. They had to sleep on farms, deserts and without a roof, under the stars. In conclusion, all this experience of the medical student’s travels made him more aware of a common South American civilization. In this way, a Pan-American vision woke up in him, which would later make him the revolutionary he was.
Websites
Other Nearby Attractions
Iguazu National Park
Located on the border of Argentina and Brazil, this place is considered one of the 7 natural wonders of the world. In its vast expanses of land, it has hundreds of unique animal and plant species throughout the world. In addition, it also has one of the most spectacular and beautiful landscapes, recognized worldwide. You can not miss a walk through this place and its stunning views. On the other hand, the Iguazu Falls are also a center of attention for tourists, with more than 270 waterfalls of more than 80 meters. Enjoy the best visit to this world heritage site
Torres del Paine National Park
To the south of Chile, this place is considered the most important National Park in the country. Enjoy its beautiful relief, its imposing mountains and glaciers, the crystalline lakes and the amazing flora and fauna. This is the perfect place for ecotourism lovers. You can also do excursions, practice sports such as kayaking, trekking, W circuit, camping, among others. Enjoy the unbeatable landscapes, breathe the fresh and fresh air and let nature embrace you.
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