WHERE TO NEXT ? TOUR 2017 - 2019
UK
CANADA
BORDER - Halifax Stanfield International Airport YHZ
DATE CROSSED - 20/05/2017
TIME PERMITTED IN COUNTRY - 6 months
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport, Canadian ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation), Drivers Licence, UK Motorcycle Registration Certificate (V5C).
TIME TAKEN - 2 People, 2 Motorbikes. Our flight and collection of luggage approx. 1hr. Collection of bikes, one day set aside.
INSURANCE - We purchased our Canadian/USA Insurance online with Motorcycle Express. £319.14 for the 1450cc Heritage Softail for 6 months and £210.40 for the 883cc Sportster for 6 months.
OUR EXPERIENCE
We flew our motorcycles, Heathrow, London to Halifax, Nova Scotia with Air Canada using James Cargo as our agents. Total cost £2752.58. You can see a full report of that here.
For our personal flights we used West Jet on a One Way Ticket from Gatwick, London to Halifax, Nova Scotia at a cost of approximately £800 each at the time. On arrival we presented our passports as normal and were asked how long we would be staying in Canada before receiving a stamp and 'welcomed with a smile'. We collected our baggage and checked in at the Hilton Garden Inn which is situated on the airport, picked because it was within walking distance of Air Canada's Customs building. Within half an hour of us checking in Air Canada had telephoned our room to inform us our bikes had arrived. An arrangement was made to collect the bikes the following morning. The rest you can read by clicking on the red information button above.
CANADA
USA
BORDER CROSSING - Beavercreek, Canada to Alcan Border, Alaska, USA.
DATE CROSSED - 29/06/2017
TIME PERMITTED IN COUNTRY - 6 month Visa activated.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport, USA 6 Month Visa, UK Motorcycle Registration Certificate (V5C), Drivers Licence,
Non-Resident Temporary Importation Approval Letter from the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). We also had a copy of an HS7 Form from the EPA regarding motor vehicle safety bumper and theft prevention standards should we have been asked to complete it.
Motorcycle Importation Papers from Air Canada/James Cargo.
TIME TAKEN - Approx 20 mins
INSURANCE - Already purchased online with Motorcycle Express. See above post.
Cost - $9 (£7.00)
OUR EXPERIENCE
Prior to crossing the border we had spent the night at Beaver Creek RV Park. We rode straight through the Canadian Border. We were not asked to stop. From there it seemed like we'd had to ride for ages to the US Border in Alaska. Nearly 23 miles in no-mans land is a lot. It wasn't until I started writing my borders up that I discovered that it was true about it being such a long way, with this being the longest distance from the Canadian side on any of their borders.We were the first people of the day at the US side. Another gentleman pulled up on a bike and went through, whilst we were asked to park at the side of the building. We declared our bear spray and took all our paperwork into the small customs building. It's very obvious where to go as this is not a busy or complicated border. Because we were quite early (it was before 9am) they hadn't even turned on the computers. Once the systems were up and running the Border Guard checked our passports and activated our 6 month visa for $9.We were not asked for any paperwork regarding our motorcycles.
USA
CANADA
BORDER CROSSING - Poker Creek, USA to Gold Creek, Canada
DATE CROSSED - 13/07/2017
TIME PERMITTED IN COUNTRY - Part of our 6 months
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport, UK Motorcycle Registration Certificate (V5C), Drivers Licence,
Motorcycle Importation papers from Air Canada/James Cargo.
TIME TAKEN - Less than 10 mins
INSURANCE - Already purchased online with Motorcycle Express. See above post.
Cost - 0
OUR EXPERIENCE
Prior to crossing the border we had spent the night at Chicken Gold Camp and Outpost. We were riding the Top of The World Highway to Dawson City, Yukon, Canada. We stopped at the command of the Border Guard. He took our passports and checked our motorcycle licence plates. He went into his little office with the passports to record the information. Whilst he was doing that we took a photo with his permission. Our passports were returned and we continued on our day's ride.
CANADA
USA
BORDER CROSSING - Stewart, British Colombia, Canada to Hyder, Alaska, USA
DATE CROSSED - 18 and 19/07/2017
TIME PERMITTED IN COUNTRY - Part of our 6 months
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport, UK Motorcycle Registration Certificate (V5C), Drivers Licence,
Motorcycle Importation papers from Air Canada/James Cargo.
TIME TAKEN - 5 mins
INSURANCE - Already purchased online with Motorcycle Express. See top post.
Cost - 0
OUR EXPERIENCE
This is the only USA Border that's unguarded. We crossed this border several times as we were staying at Camp Run A Muck on the Hyder, Alaska side but the supermarket is in Stewart, British Colombia, Canada. No stops entering or exiting the USA. Each time entering Canada we were stopped. Passports and motorcycle licence plates checked.
CANADA
USA
BORDER CROSSING - Vancouver , British Colombia, Canada to Blaine,USA
DATE CROSSED - 01/08/2017
TIME PERMITTED IN COUNTRY - Part of our 6 months
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport, UK Motorcycle Registration Certificate (V5C), Drivers Licence,
Motorcycle Importation papers from Air Canada/James Cargo.
TIME TAKEN - Approx 30 mins
INSURANCE - Already purchased online with Motorcycle Express. See top post.
Cost - 0
OUR EXPERIENCE
Though the time above states 30 mins for time taken, at least 20 minutes of this was spent queueing to get to the passport booth. It's a busy border. Once at the booth we handed our passports in and Chris removed his sunglasses and me my helmet. The Border guard studied our passports and seemed a little confused at us on British bikes. He then returned our passports and waved us through. We were not asked to show any papers in relation to our motorcycles.
USA
MEXICO
BORDER CROSSING - Tecate - California USA - Baja,Mexico
DATE CROSSED - 20/11/2017
TIME PERMITTED IN COUNTRY - 6 months
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport (plus 1 copy), UK Motorcycle Registration Certificate (V5C) (plus 1 copy) Drivers Licence (plus 1 copy)
Mexican Tourist card (plus 1 copy)
Motorcycle Importation papers from Air Canada/James Cargo.
TIME TAKEN - Almost two hours
INSURANCE - Already purchased online with Motorcycle Express in October 2017 for 6 months.
Heritage Softail - £250.29
883 Sportster - £211.13
COST - $5754.00 Mexican Pesos per bike for the deposit for Temporary Importation $1207.42 Mexican Pesos per person for costs associated with the TIP (hologram sticker/card and administrative fees).
$533 Mexican Pesos per person for the Tourist Cards.
TOTAL = $7494.42 Mexican Pesos or £286.58 (English Pounds) per person.
OUR EXPERIENCE
As we approached the Tecate Border we were looking for the US exit building. There isn't any. We rode under the Mexico sign and pulled in on the right hand side ushered by the Border Guards. They did a token check in Christopher's panniers and then asked us to move our bikes to the opposite side of the compound whilst we did our paperwork. They were all friendly and helpful pointing out that because we'd already ridden under the 'Mexico' sign that we'd need to walk round to the Aduana offices by exiting the compound and re-entering. This is not a problem if you do this, there is a little walkway and they will point you in the right direction. As you stand facing the Mexico sign, the Aduana and the Tourist Card offices are on the right hand side, First we went up the steps into the office for the Tourist Card. Here we were handed a form which we sat down and filled in at the table provided and then the Officer checked the form. We then went to the Aduana and paid for the card and returned to him. The Tourist card was stamped, photocopied and handed back to us. This officer was very friendly and he was very proud to show us his pots of home-made honey. Chris bought two pots from him. We then went back to the Aduana with all our papers and newly acquired tourist card and copy. We handed in all our papers and waited outside the large booth whilst they processed us. Once all papers, copies and payment were completed the Official told us that as motorcyclists if we didn't wish to attach the TIP to our screens, it was perfectly ok to keep them safely tucked away with the rest of the paperwork. This border is quiet friendly and very easy to use.
Our bikes were parked on the left where the white pick up trucks are but you can't see them in this photo.
MEXICO
BELIZE
BORDER CROSSING - Often referred to as 'Chetumal' because of it's proximity to the to city, it's actual name is Subteniente Lopez on the Mexican side and Santa Elena on the Belize side.
DATE CROSSED - 31/1/2018
TIME PERMITTED IN COUNTRY - 1 month
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport, UK Motorcycle Registration Certificate (V5C), Drivers Licence
Mexican Tourist card plus receipt.
Mexican Temporary Import Papers
TIME TAKEN - 1 1/2 hrs
INSURANCE - $40 BZD or (£15.48 ) for two weeks per person.
COST - $10 BZD (£3.87) for fumigation per bike.
$15 BZD (£5.80) per person, Foreign Vehicle Border Processing Fee
OUR EXPERIENCE
Exiting Mexico
1.On our approach from the Chetumal side we soon saw new formal buildings appear on the left hand side. Ignored those until we got to a small booth type building on the right hand side. This is where you will get your passport stamped out of Mexico. We parked our motorcycles in the car park across the road on the left almost opposite, at the Secretaría de Gobernación Instituto Nacional de Migración and then walked back across.The official will stamp your passport.
2. We then returned to the Migracion building with all the rest of our papers. The Officials took our paperwork to process and went outside to check the motorcycle registration numbers.
3. Once this has been done the Official explained that our deposits that we paid on entering Mexico would be refunded to our bank account within approximately 3 - 5 days. Mine was back in the bank within 3 days and Christopher's within 5. That's it, we've now exited Mexico.
Entering Belize
1. We rode what seemed like a couple of miles of 'no-mans' land and across the Hondo River. Not long after crossing the river we rode through a fumigation structure and pulled up at a small modern white 'pay' building where we handed the attendant $10 BZD each. Then a little further along we came to a roundabout. Went straight on without thinking, so had to turn around and then turned right at the roundabout. Remember you'll turn left.We rode a short distance to another roundabout and turned right,followed the road down and were ushered to park on the right hand side by an Official.
2. We gathered all our papers together and went inside the large Belize Immigration building on our left. At the first desk on the right we had our passports stamped.
3. The next desk we went to was under 'items to declare' almost at the end of the large room/area. The first Official wasn't too sure what to do but the second Official just breezed through our papers and asked how long we would be staying. It's important to state how long at this point as this gets put on the official stamp. We said 15 days and that's exactly what we got.
4. When we returned to our bikes we approached by another Official who we paid $15 BZD each. This is the Foreign Vehicles Border Processing Fee from the Border Management Agency and Ministry of Tourism. Keep the receipt for this very safe.
5.We re-mounted and rode a very short distance to the Inspection gate where an Official checked our paperwork and asked us if e had any fruit or veg.
6. From here we moved down to a 'T' junction. Turn right and the Insurance Corporation of Belize building is just on the left. We parked up and went in to pay our insurance . This cost us $40 BZD each for two weeks.
And that's it we're in. For those interested we rode from City Express Hotel, Chetumal, which is a great spot to stay before crossing the border. We also exchanged money there, in the shopping centre across the car park from it. After crossing the border we then spent or first night in Belize at Crooked Tree Lodge, a fantastic place for bird lovers. We saw about five different species within a couple of hours.
BELIZE
GUATEMALA
BORDER CROSSING - Melchor De Mencos
DATE CROSSED - 14/2/2018
TIME PERMITTED IN COUNTRY - 90 days (3 months)
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport (plus 1 copy)
UK Motorcycle Registration Certificate (V5C) (plus 1 copy)
Drivers Licence (plus 1 copy)
Belize Vehicle Import Papers
TIME TAKEN - 1 3/4 hrs
INSURANCE - Insurance is not a legal requirement in Guatemala. We did not purchase any during our stay.
COST - $37.50 BZD Belize Exit Fee per person.
Q12 Guatemalan Quetzals for Fumigation per bike.
Q160 Guatemalan Quetzals Vehicle Import Fee per bike
Q10 Guatemalan Quetzal Tip
Q10 Guatemalan Quetzals per person Bridge Toll/Entry Fee
OUR EXPERIENCE
That morning we were riding from Parrot's Nest Lodge in San Ignacio to Tikal. Before we left we were informed at breakfast that there was a roadblock on the road between the border and Tikal. It had apparently been there for several days and tourists were stuck both sides of the border. A bit of a mess really. We decided to 'hope for the best' that they'd clear it before we got there. One of our previous guides who'd come round for breakfast and to collect some more customers was already on the phone to his friend on the other side of the protest trying to get more information for us but couldn't reach him.
Exiting Belize
1.We parked on the right before entering a large white building on our left.
2. On entering the building we met some money exchangers who had a booth in the area outside the building. We told them we were going to sort our papers out first and would return. Once inside the building we first paid our $37.50 Exit fees at the first desk.
3. Next we had our passports stamped out at the second point/office at the back of the room.
4.From that point we turned around and were pointed to a door on the left of 'immigration'(authorised personnel) and walked through a hallway to the Customs Declaration desk. Here we handed in our Vehicle Import papers and passport and were stamped out.
5. On exiting the building we returned to the money exchange and purchased Guatemalan Quetzals. Then we returned to the bikes.
Entering Guatemala
1. We rode down the road a short way and parked at Fumigation on the right hand side. Here we paid Q12 each for them to spray our wheels. Don't forget to get a receipt.Two teenage boys (budding fixers) were quite excited at seeing our bikes and decided to attach themselves to us to escort us through our entry into Guatemala. Douglas and Tony. They were very sweet and actually quite helpful. Despite the fact that we really didn't need them, neither one of us felt compelled to tell them to 'go away'.We left our bikes parked at fumigation whilst we walked to the large open air style barn/building across the road.
2.Immigration was on the right at the desk at the back of the building. We had our passports plus copies stamped here.
3.The Customs desk is to the left along the same counter. Here we provided the rest of our papers plus the receipt for fumigation. The information was processed and we were given a receipt each which we then had to take to the Banjercito which is behind you along the right hand wall of the building (as you face it). Once you have paid your Q160 fee return to the Customs desk and finalise your papers and issue your Vehicle Import. George insisted on showing me his girlfriend and friends on his phone and was quite a 'chatty' little soul, though a little distracting.
4. We then returned to the motorcycles , gave George and Tony a tip and moved forwards to the Inspection gate where our papers were given a final once over.
5. Ride slowly over the bridge in preparation to stop at the toll booth. Here you will pay a Municipal Tax/Toll/Entry Fee, call it what you like, before you are free to ride off into Guatemala. The Guard on duty was very 'taken' by our bikes (I think it's a 'Harley Davidson' thing...well they do make an unmistakeable sound.) Anyways he wanted a photograph and we were very happy to oblige.
Border cleared, our next task was to get to Tikal. Would we escape a roadblock. Unfortunately we weren't that lucky and soon came across it. To read more,please visit my blog at Guatemala and to see more pictures check out Gallery 10.
GUATEMALA
EL SALVADOR
BORDER CROSSING - La Hachadura
DATE CROSSED - 27/2/2018
TIME PERMITTED IN COUNTRY - Part of our 90 days (3 months) for the C4.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport (plus 1 copy)
UK Motorcycle Registration Certificate (V5C) (plus 1 copy)
Drivers Licence (plus 1 copy)
Guatemalan Import Papers
Further copies to be made at border with exit stamps on them.
TIME TAKEN - 3 hrs
INSURANCE - Insurance is not a legal requirement in El Salvador. We did not purchase any during our stay.
COST - Should have cost $5 US per person plus a few Quetzals for photocopies. Actual cost to us $90 US......read on......
OUR EXPERIENCE
The night before we left for El Salvador we'd stopped at Hostel Las Marias in Taxisco, Guatemala. A great little place just off the main road with safe parking for the bikes and only 35 miles from the border. On the approach to the border we were hounded by fixers on motorbikes from quite a way back. One finally decided to ride alongside Chris and a decision was made to use him. A decision we were to regret.
Exiting Guatemala
1.We followed the fixer past a long queue of wagons to the Guatemalan Migracion building. He was trying to be helpful pointing out pot holes but he kept going off the road onto dirt edges with obstacles which he could easily manoeuvre round. He soon slowed down and backed off when he realised our much heavier bikes were not that nimble.
2. Outside the building more fixers tried to negotiate business with us. We parked on the left and the fixer introduced himself and his brother. He was called Alexander, I cannot remember his brother's name. Chris had agreed a $20 fee. At the booth marked 'Salida de Guatemala' we got our passports stamped out of Guatemala. Alexander accompanied us.
3. The next step was to get a two copies of our passports with the exit stamp on them . This was done across the road from where we were parked in a building/shed where the workers said they were having a power cut and then had to unplug a computer to get some power for a photocopier.
4.From there we returned to the Migracion building and went to the Customs/Ingeso sign at the opposite side to where the bikes were parked and had the Import papers cancelled. The VIN on the bike was checked. They will provide you with your exit paperwork which you will also need to copy.Alexander took control of copied paperwork.
5. We exchanged Quetsals for dollars with a gentleman recommended by Alexander. The money exchangers are all pretty much the same and you can haggle a little to try and get a better rate. We usually check the rates the morning we cross a border.
6. Return to the photocopiers and copy the exit stamped import papers.
Entering El Salvador
1. We then followed Alexander through no mans land and across the bridge into El Salvador. We had to queue for a short time on the bridge until an official waved us through. Alexander took a photo of us on the bridge. As we moved off the bridge Alexander handed the same official copies of our cancelled import permits and passports and he stamped them.
2.We followed the road round to the right and parked up again outside the large Migracion building. Alexander made a copy of our cancelled Guatemalan Import papers (There is a copy shop next door to Immigration.)
3.Alexander then took all copies of our papers into Customs. This is where we made the fatal mistake of 'losing sight of him' and 'trusting' him. Please don't anybody make the same mistake. Whilst we were waiting with his brother a young girl was sent back to Guatemala because there was a mistake on her passport. Alexander returned with an official to check our bike registrations and VIN numbers. There was a little bit of 'umming and arring' but nothing said to us. They returned inside and Alexander came out again and told us there was a mistake on my paperwork and that I could be sent back to Guatemala for a letter to say there was a mistake. I checked the paperwork and was horrified to find that he was indeed correct and that there was a typo in the bike registration. I explained to him that this was 'obviously' a typo and that himself and the official had just checked all the paperwork and examined the bike and not said anything. I also suggested that being sent back to Guatemala for such a small error was a bit extreme when you could clearly see the licence plate on my motorcycle registration papers. He returned inside and after some time came back out and apologised for the delay as he was trying to sort out the 'error' and starting making suggestions about buying the Official dinner which we did not 'rise to'. The Official he was dealing with then came out of the building under the guise of going to the toilet. He came across to us and started trying to say that our English Motorcycle Registration Papers were also 'not right' as they said on them that they were not a 'proof of ownership.' He is indeed correct of course, English papers do say that on them. I explained very firmly but politely that these were official English papers and showed him the originals. Alexander and himself returned inside. As you can imagine we have ceased to be amused by these antics and feel that they are trying to 'play' us despite the fact there is a typo.
4. Finally Alexander returns with our Import papers for El Salvador and says he's sorted it. We then have to move off down the road (because he refuses to take our payment outside the Official building), before pulling in to pay him. Remember he still has our Import papers in his hand and he's not for letting go.
5. He then says he wants $20 each for helping us across (not the $20 originally mentioned), so now it's costing $40, then he says he needs another $40 plus for sorting the mistake out, so now we're at $80. The final $10 was legitimate as there is a $5 charge each to enter El Salvador. So now we're at $90 and he still has our Import papers in his hand with his brother at the side of him with his motorcycle. We made it clear that we were unhappy about this. There was much face pulling but no offer to give us our papers. In the end to prevent the situation escalating, we explained to him why we were unhappy and Chris paid the money and Alexander happily handed the papers over. So were we 'had over'?....it certainly felt like it and we will not use a fixer again, my Spanglish has been good enough for the borders so far, we should not have engaged his services. Despite the fact that Alexander and his brother were very pleasant the experience left us with a bitter taste in our mouths as we left the border. Neither one of us agrees with the paying or encouragement of the mentality of the bribing culture. It only makes it harder for the next man to follow.
EL SALVADOR
HONDURAS
BORDER CROSSING - El Amatillo
DATE CROSSED - 1/3/2018
TIME PERMITTED IN COUNTRY - Part of our 90 days (3 months) of the C4
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport (plus 3 copy)
UK Motorcycle Registration Certificate (V5C) (plus 3 copy)
Drivers Licence (plus 3 copy)
EL Salvador Import Papers
TIME TAKEN - 1 1/2 - 2 hrs
INSURANCE - Insurance is not a legal requirement in Honduras. We did not purchase any during our stay.
COST - 74HNL (Honduran Lempira) = $3 or £2.37 Fee per person for Tourist Card 685 HNL = $28.10 or £22 Import Fee each
Plus about $5 or 122 HNL for extra photocopies (there's quite a few to do so have plenty of change on you.)
OUR EXPERIENCE
We rode from San Miguel, El Salvador to Choluteca in Honduras on the same day as crossing the border. It was a distance of approximately 93 miles. In San Miguel we stayed Hotel Florencia which is right on the Pan American and one of those lovely courtyard B & B style places with a security guard and gated parking. There was also a restaurant there so we could have our tea. Despite the fact that it doesn't have it's own website you can find it on Booking.com and it's only 37 miles to the border. On the Honduras side we stayed at Jicaral Hotel y Centro de Convenciones, which was a very large building with superb facilities but empty....such a shame. It suited us at the time right at the side of the CA3 but far enough back for no traffic noise.
On our approach to El Amatillo another traveller on a bike passed us and waved. We later caught up with him.
EXITING EL SALVADOR
1.As we got a little nearer to the border we were waved over by an Official and asked to stop. This is where we caught up with the traveller that had just passed us. Martin, from Canada. A lovely young lad just having a ride round and doing a route back to Canada. We ended up chatting and crossing the border together. Anyways I digress. At this point we all handed in our El Salvador Import papers plus a copy and the Official checked our motorcycle vin numbers. The permit copy was then returned to us with a new sticker on it' Permit Cancelled'. At the side of the road there are some shops where you can make 3 copies of your cancelled permit. We also changed money with the fixers here and got some Honduramn Lempira.
2.We set off again and came to a fork in the road where we bore left and than came upon a bus station style building where we parked on the right hand side.
3. Take your passports to the building, If you've parked on the right you will be able to see the window booths along the side of the building.They are at the end. the 'Migracion Counter'. Hand in your passports and the Official will give you a piece of paper with the number of passports on it. You do not get a stamp and there are no exit fees. Now for myself and Chris this is where it was a little interesting. If you've been reading my border write ups you'll remember that we had 'issues' crossing into El Salvador. All I can say is 'yes' something went very wrong with the Official at the El Salvador border. When I handed my passport in at the exit booth the nice elderly father type Official figure struggled with something on the computer disappeared with my passport and came back. He then beckoned me to lean in closer to the booth so he could speak to me. He asked me if anybody had taken my passport off me at any point. The answer was'no' as Alexander had only ever been given copies (never hand a fixer originals). None of my information had been entered into the system. It was like I'd never existed in El Salvador. He even asked me at which border I had crossed at on entry into El Salvador. I glanced across at Chris's Official and he was having problems as well. We were at separate booths. My Official sorted everything out and asked me to be very careful and not give my papers to anybody. He really was quite lovely and obviously concerned for my safety as a female because he hadn't realised I was with Chris and Martin. Chris also got sorted.
4.From here we rode to the Honduran side. As you are exiting El Salvador an Official will take a copy of your cancelled Import papers from you and wave you on.
ENTERING HONDURAS
1. As we drove over the bridge to Honduras an Official stopped us, checked the papers and as we looked ahead we could see the large bus station style building which was the Honduran Customs building.
2. We parked on the right hand side of the building by the shops. This was a really busy border for people wanting to watch your bike etc. Very distracting but 'No necesito' really does go along way.
3. As you walk into the building (facing it) there is a booth to your right which is where you get your fingerprints done and you fill in your tourist card which is $3 US. They will stamp your passport and give you a receipt.
4. At the 'Aduana' window on the left hand side hand the Official all your paperwork plus three copies of each. Here he will fill out more forms and stamp passports and paperwork.
5. The forms will be handed back to you to make further copies I think if I remember rightly it was 2 copies of the passport stamp and 3 of the form he gave you. The copy shop is outside the back of the building on the left hand side. A fixer or other person will try and point you there to earn a tip. This is where you will need your change or you might not get any if your notes are too big.
6. Return to the Aduana and pay the 685 HDL for the Import paper. Get a receipt and go back to the copy shop to make a copy of it and then return to the Aduana again.
7. More forms filled out, copies of the bike papers taken ( we already had these) and then the Import is granted.
8. There is no insurance to pay as it's not a legal requirement in Honduras.
Once we all had our paperwork complete we returned to the bikes and rode a very short distance to a snack shop for a cold drink. I dropped my bike....embarrassed.....nope not really anymore. A stone caught under my wheel as I was moving at ...wait for it...approx 1mph...it just toppled my balance…..some lovely Honduran men and Martin rushed to my aid and picked the bike up. Chris was already parking behind a car and missed the minor kerfuffle Refreshments drunk and contacts for each other saved we said our goodbyes and rode off into Honduras. Martin stayed with us for a short time before shooting off and continuing on his own adventure and we headed off to our digs for the night.
HONDURAS
NICARAGUA
BORDER CROSSING - Guasuale
DATE CROSSED - 02/03/2018
TIME PERMITTED IN COUNTRY - Last part of our 90 days (3 months) of the C4.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport, UK Motorcycle Registration Certificate (V5C), Drivers Licence
Honduran Tourist Card
Honduras Temporary Import Papers
Nicaragua Entrance and Exit Form
Nicaraguan Fumigation Receipt
TIME TAKEN - 4 hrs
INSURANCE - $12 US or for one month per person.
COST - $3 US for fumigation per bike.
$12 US or 389 NIO per person, Tourist Card Fee
OUR EXPERIENCE
Exiting Honduras
1. We rode from Cholutecas, Honduras to Leon, Nicaragua, crossing the border in between. As we approached the border we were stopped, the import papers written on and pointed to a large newly painted blue and white building with a lot of glass window/wall.
2.We parked our bikes at the side of this building as we could see the Officials behind their desks through the windows. This meant looking out, we could also keep a check on our bikes. We were approached by money changers at this point and told them we would exchange after we'd dealt with the paperwork.
3.We entered the building and had our passports stamped out of Honduras and our fingerprints checked again. We were a little unlucky here as a bus load of people got in the queue before us. The booths for the passports stamping were on the opposite side of the building to where we had parked our bikes and very easy to find. They did not ask us for our Honduran tourist card.
4.We then returned to the booths/desks at the same side as the bikes and had our import permits cancelled.
5. Returned to the bikes outside the windows and exchanged currency. A very easy exit border.
ENTER NICARAGUA
1.From where we were parked we just rode straight on to get back on the road to Nicaragua and continued a short distance over the bridge. Once over the bridge, bear right Here we were stopped by officials where we dismounted and showed all our papers including the Nicaragua Invitation Form. A young lady Official pointed us towards fumigation and told us where to go after that. She also told us she would be along shortly to check on how we were getting along. She was very impressed that we had a completed Invitation form and had asked how I knew about it. At this point we were also given a declaration/tourist form to complete and the young Official took a copy of our passports.
2.Fumigation was just in front of us. Whilst they sprayed our wheels we paid at the little building. Provide your bike details and on payment you will be handed a receipt. Keep hold of this as you'll need it later.
3. After fumigation we rode past the car park and across the main road to a large white building with a car park at the side of it. We parked up and as we were getting all our papers ready the lady Official reappeared and took us into the building to have our passports stamped out. She also explained to the passport Official that we had completed our invitation form and we handed in our copy of it plus the completed declaration form and our passports which he stamped and then issued a tourist card which cost us $12 each.
4. The young lady Official then showed us into the room next door where she pointed to the counter behind a glass perspex. We were unlucky with the queue again here. There were three people in front and only one clerk working. Eventually we got to the window and handed in all our motorcycle information plus the fumigation receipt. She had a little difficulty understanding the English papers and had to work out on her computer where to imput various numbers. Once done we were handed a customs form which we took outside for another Official to check the number plates of the bikes and sign. Once this was done we returned to the same window and the Vehicle Import Papers were issued. There was no fee.
5. We left the bikes in the car park and walked across the main road to the Aduana building where there were several other little shops. One of these is a copy shop. Make a copy of your tourist card. We also bought some homemade chocolate cakes off the lady doing the copying.
6. Around the back of the Aduana were some Insurance agents. The gentleman from fumigation who'd just sprayed our wheels was there and explained to one of the agents our requirements. We didn't need him, he was just being friendly. We paid $12 each for one months insurance.
7. We then returned to the bikes and rode back towards fumigation to get back on the road to Nicaragua. The road was blocked with wagons but the man from fumigation reappeared again and pointed for us to go through the car park which we did. A little further along we were stopped again and an Official checked our papers, Finally we were free to go. This border took a while but only because we were unlucky with the queues.
NICARAGUAN ENTRANCE AND EXIT FORM
This year,2018, there has been much discussion online about the need for the Nicaraguan Invitation Form. I applied for ours 10 days before we crossed the border. They replied within 3 days. Despite the fact that some people have crossed without the form pre done, they've had to wait and fill one in when they've arrived. It's your choice. I prefer to be slightly organised which is why I applied in advance. For those of you wishing to do the same, here is the information you require.
1. The email addresses you need to send the form to are; solicitudes@migob.gob.ni and a copy to preyes@migob.gob.ni
2. The website if you wish to check for further information and where you can also download the forms is : https://www.migob.gob.ni/migracion/tramites/solicitud-de-ingreso-ordenado-y-seguro-de-visitantes-invitados-por-motivos-diferentes-al-Turismo/
3.You can see what the forms look like below. I stopped short of putting a download link on my site as I wasn't sure whether the Nicaraguan Government would be too happy about that. If you struggle to download the forms from their site, just contact me here.
ENGLISH VERSION
SPANISH VERSION
NICARAGUA
COSTA RICA
BORDER CROSSING - Penas Blancas
DATE CROSSED - 13/3/2018
TIME PERMITTED IN COUNTRY - 90 days (3 months)
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport (plus 1 copy)
UK Motorcycle Registration Certificate (V5C) (plus 1 copy)
Drivers Licence (plus 1 copy)
Nicaraguan Vehicle Import Papers
TIME TAKEN - 2 hrs
INSURANCE - $26 per motorcycle for 3 months
COST - $4 plus approx. 100 Colones for photo copies
OUR EXPERIENCE
We rode from San Jorge in Nicaragua to Liberia in Costa Rica with the border in between which was approximately 72 miles. On our approach to the Nicaraguan side we were initially stopped by a guard who looked at our papers and pointed us past the trucks that were hogging the centre of the road to a large white building with turquoise, greenish facias on our right hand side. Take deep breaths before tackling this border and have a cold drink if you're already flustered with the heat. There's quite a bit of running back and forth finding people and with lots of sellers and other people milling about it's not always easy to spot an Official.
EXITING NICARAGUA
1. We rode towards the building that had just been pointed out to us and immediately spotted some other Harley Davidsons parked outside it, so promptly parked up alongside them. They turned out to be a local club from San Jose in Costa Rica.
2. Once parked we gathered our papers together and entered the building on the side where we had parked the bikes and paid a $1 entry fee each. There were quite a lot of booths in there and we weren't sure which one to go to so an Official pointed us to the right desk in a different room where we were charged another $1 each to get our passports stamped. I think we'd gone in the wrong door initially which is why we got charged twice but it wasn't worth causing a fuss over so make sure you go in the right door.
3. Return outside and find a customs official, they're not easy to spot so look for a man checking number plates. He will give you a form to complete and check your plates and vin number.
4. Next find a policeman to put a second signature on your completed signed customs declaration form. They are usually stood under a canopy in the shade across from the main building.
5. Return to the building with your signed papers and go to the desk at the end of the corridor and they will sign your bike out and give you an exit slip.
6. We then returned to the bikes and rode away, just getting stopped again for an Official to take the exit slip off us and check our passports.
ENTERING COSTA RICA
1.Riding forwards from the Nicaraguan side about half a mile you will be stopped by an Official who will probably just glance at your passport. Once through that you will see a large building on your left and a couple of small shed like buildings on your right. Pull forwards past those and park on your right hand side along the fence before the lorry park. Watch out for buses just stopping and letting lots of people off or on. We exchanged a small amount of money whilst we were parked here.
2. Walk back to the large building and get your passport stamped out.
3. Across the road from the large building there is a green shed (that's what colour it was when we passed through) marked 'ADUANA'. He will give you an import form to complete and will check all your papers plus copies and then he will stamp your completed form.
4.We then walked through the lorry park to go to the new Aduana building to purchase our insurance and complete our Importation. At this stage you can actually move your bikes/vehicles up to the new building. Once inside after you have paid for your insurance you will need to make a copy of it and also a copy of the entry stamp in your passport. This is when we moved our bikes up. The copy shop is just outside the building at the edge of the top of the lorry park. When you've done your copies go back into the new Aduana building and complete the importation. The insurance and importation windows are two separate ones.When you go in there is a security/help guard who will point you to the correct window. I think the importation window was straight ahead as we walked in and the insurance on the right. I'm writing from memory as I lost some of my notes on this border. The whole office is not that big, you can't get lost.
5. Riding away we had our papers checked again and the form that we'd received stamped from the green Aduana shed was taken from us. After that our passports were checked and we were free to ride off to Liberia.
COSTA RICA
PANAMA
BORDER CROSSING - Paso Canoas
DATE CROSSED - 18/4/2018
TIME PERMITTED IN COUNTRY - 90 days (3 months)
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport (plus 2 copy)
UK Motorcycle Registration Certificate (V5C) (plus 2 copy)
Drivers Licence (plus 1 copy)
Costa Rica Vehicle Import Papers
TIME TAKEN - 1 hrs 45 mins
INSURANCE - $15 per motorcycle for 1 month
COST - $16 ($7 exit fee each and $1 each fumigation)
OUR EXPERIENCE
We rode from Golfito in Costa Rica to a little B & B, Little Italy in an area called Urban Donna Fela. A total distance of approximately 55 miles with the border inbetween. A great place to stay with very safe parking for motorcycles and only just off the Pan Am Highway.
EXITING COSTA RICA
1. On arrival to the border, we parked on the left outside the Costa Rica Immigration building.
2. We paid our exit fee of $7 each at a little office across the road signposted ' Impuesto de Salida'. Keep your receipt.
3. Return to the immigration building with your passport and 'Departure Tax' receipt and go to the 'Salir' window for your passport exit stamp.. We were not asked to complete an exit form at this point.
4. Next we went to the 'Aduana' office. Here we completed a form which we then returned along with our passports, bike papers and Costa Rica Import Papers. An official will then check your vin numbers . After that they cancel and keep your Import Papers and hand you back the form you just completed with a stamp on it.
ENTERING PANAMA
1.As you approach Panama, which is a very short distance to move the bikes, you will see right in front of you a large building with Panama written across the top. Ride underneath the Paso Canoas sign.There was no queue as we arrived and so we managed to park the bikes right outside the passport stamp window which is on your left hand side. Just park the bikes at the side of the road. You can see clearly what we did on the photographs below
2.Hand your passport into the Panama Immigration window and they will take your photograph and stamp your passport.
3. Next get your insurance across the road from the large Immigration building there is a 'Seguro' office. Take all your papers plus copies. The insurance cost us $30 each for two months.
4.Return to the Immigration building and go to the 'Capture and Manifesto' office/window. Hand in your papers again plus copies and be prepared to show proof of insurance. They will hand you back your original papers and your Panama Vehicle Import Papers. We also changed some money with an 'exchanger' as we returned to the bikes.
5. Return to your bikes/vehicle and move away a short distance and park up on the right hand side. Here you will show your bike papers again and pay $1 each at a little office for Fumigation. Keep hold of your receipt. Then ride through the fumigation spray area. At this point we met two other motorcyclists from a local club 'The Brotherhood' in Panama.
6. After fumigation you will ride a short way and then be stopped again for a final inspection of your papers. The two bikers from 'The Brotherhood' were not stopped here but they waited for us to ensure we cleared the checkpoint and then rode with us for a while before waving goodbye and riding off into the distance.
7. NOTE - AT THE PANAMA BORDER YOUR PERSONAL VISA IS FOR 90 DAYS BUT YOUR VEHICLE IMPORTATION PAPERS ARE ONLY FOR 30 DAYS AT THE TIME OF WRITING THIS INFORMATION.
EXTENDING TEMPORARY VEHICLE IMPORTATION PERMIT (TVIP) IN PANAMA
LOCATION - National Customs Authority ( Autoridad National de Aduanas ), Avenida Ascanio Villalaz, Panamá, Panama
WEBSITE - ana.gob.pa
TELEPHONE - +507 506-6400
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport x 2, Insurance x 2, Original Vehicle Import x 2, Motorcycle Papers x 2
COST - $5 Each
1. After parking up in their busy car park we entered the building. You will be asked to leave some form of identification at the entrance. We left our driving licences and were given a 'visitors pass' each.
2.Walk down the hallway, turn right and then left and carry on walking until you reach the 'Certificacion Vehicular ( Control Vehicular ) open 8am - 3.15pm.
3. Hand in all your original papers plus copies. He will staple them all together and make more copies, fill in a form and hand back to you all clipped together. You sign the form. He will keep your originals.
4. Return back down the corridor you just walked up to the Ministration Regional Zona Oriental office which will now be on your left in the corner. Hand all the paperwork in. You will be asked to take a seat whilst they check the paperwork and sign it. We had to wait 30 mins.
5. Return to the Certificacion Vehicular office with the signed paperwork and he will return your originals. We extended for 30 days. You can extend twice bringing your vehicle papers inline with your personal 90 day visa.
PANAMA
COLOMBIA
BORDER CROSSING - Tocumen Airport, Panama to El Dorado Luis Carlos Galan Sarmiento International Airport,Bogota, Colombia
DATE CROSSED - 05/06/2018
TIME PERMITTED IN COUNTRY - 90 days (3 months)
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport
UK Motorcycle Registration Certificate (V5C)
Drivers Licence
Panama Vehicle Import Papers
TIME TAKEN - 4 days
INSURANCE - Our insurance was included with a deal but is normally approx $10/15 per motorcycle for 1 month
COST - $1000 per bike including insurance for 3 months with Air Cargo Pack, Personal flights $238 each with Copa Airlines
OUR EXPERIENCE
Our experience crossing from Panama to Colombia began with the cancellation of our sailing with the Stahlratte. Unfortunately Customs in Cartagena had stopped any further sailings with motorbikes. This resulted in Ludwig from the Stahlratte having to cancel until he could resolve the issues.
A flurry of emails then ensued between fellow riders who'd also been caught up in this unfortunate situation, about 14 of us I seem to recollect. We were all immensely disappointed but on the road' things happen' and you have to learn to adapt and move on. The emails meant much information sharing and people deciding whether they wanted to hang on to see if Ludwig would sort the problems out in Cartagena and return for us on the next sailing. Some decided to use a container and some of us decided to fly.
So four of us Chris and I, Ron Bedard and Vincent Lawless all ended up in the same hotel in Panama where between us we organised our personal flights and bike flights. Because there were four of us and Vincent's inept ability at securing/blagging discounts, we ended up with a really good price for the bike flights including three months insurance for us all in Colombia......or was it Vincent's 'Luck of the Irish' 🍀.
We'd booked the bike flights first and it was a good job because we rode the bikes to Tocumen Airport the day before they were due to fly only to discover that there was a festival on in Colombia so the bikes would fly a day later than expected.
The process with the bikes was easy. We simply rode fully loaded to the cargo area of the airport to Air Cargo Pack's warehouse. Here we handed our paperwork in which was re-copied despite the fact we'd already emailed all the information. Once that was done we walked a short distance to the Aduana on the airport and got our Panama Import papers cancelled. Then we returned to the warehouse and paid our fees. After that we returned to the hotel in a taxi, Ron booked our personal flights online and we were good to go.
Entering Colombia was a slightly different affair. Flying in for us was straight forward but when went to collect the bikes we discovered they'd made several mistakes on the paperwork and the insurance wasn't ready for all of us. Chris and I plus our bikes had been registered as Irish and Vince, whose last name was Lawless had been renamed Vincent Eireann, which is actually Irish in Gaelic.
The mistakes meant we spent two days getting the bikes out of customs and dealing with the Dian (Aduana/Customs) on the airport. Ron who spoke the best Spanish of the four of us complained to John the Boss of Air Cargo on behalf of all of us and we were bought dinner as an acknowledgement of the issues and as way of an apology.
The handling of the bikes was all good just make sure to check every last scrap of paperwork even if they tell you it's ok. F
or more information you can contact John Fabio Agudelo at Air Cargo at ggeneral@aircargopack.com or telephone +507 238-4630
COLOMBIA
ECUADOR
BORDER CROSSING - Rumichaca
DATE CROSSED - 06/08/2018
TIME PERMITTED IN COUNTRY - 90 days (3 months)
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport
UK Motorcycle Registration Certificate (V5C)
Drivers Licence
Colombia Vehicle Import Papers
TIME TAKEN - 4 hrs
INSURANCE - None. At the time of crossing Insurance was not a legal requirement in Ecuador.
COST - Zero
OUR EXPERIENCE
The actual process of crossing the border at Rumichaca is very easy and in normal circumstance should not take a long time to complete. However at the time of our crossing the border was heaving with Venezuelan refugees and a very sad sight is was to see, with families camping out at the border, waiting to see if they would be accepted into Colombia or Ecuador. There were two sets of queues. One for people with passports and one for people who only had identity cards. Authorities that spotted us...it wasn't hard....as travellers passing through and other tourists would point us to the relevant windows for passport stamps or provide us with wrist bands and place us in different queues to avoid confusion with the endless queues of Venezuelans. The situation has deteriorated further over the years in Venezuela and about three million people have fled the country. EXPLAINER ARTICLE.
EXITING COLOMBIA
1. On our approach to the border we managed to park right outside the Aduana/Customs office.
2. We walked around the corner where we walked past a long queue of Venezuelans trying to enter Colombia and up some steps and the Salir office was on the left hand side. Luckily we were exiting so our queue for the exit stamps was not a long one.
3. After obtaining our personal exit stamp we walked through a gap in the buildings back towards our bikes and presented our Colombian import papers for cancellation.
4. The process of leaving Colombia took about 20 mins and then we rode over the bridge to Ecuador.
ENTERING ECUADOR
1. On our approach to the Ecuador border we instructed to park. Luckily this was right outside the Aduana/Customs office.
2. We were given a wrist band and instructed to queue on the opposite side of the buildings for access to the Immigration for our entry stamps into Ecuador. Normally it would appear that you could walk through but because of the queues we had to go round. Our queue was long but the authorities had done their best in organising a bad situation. So the wait was a long one but during the time spent in the queue we met Richard and his friend who were also travelling to Ecuador on a motorbike.. Richard was a policeman from Colombia and also had his own promotional motorcycle clothing company, MODA JERSEY. So queueing ended up being quite entertaining and Richard gave me a free MODA JERSEY buff. Thank you Richard.
3. After obtaining our personal entry stamp we walked back to the bikes through the door we would originally have come through. As the bikes were right outside the Aduana this proved to be quite useful as on presenting our bike papers for the Import, we were handed the official's mobile phone and asked to photograph our number plates and vin numbers ourselves. It seemed the officials were non too happy about exiting their offices to push past crowds of the Venezuelan people.
4. The process of entering Ecuador took over 3 hours because of the situation. I'm sure many of you following behind us may not have the same problem unless mass migration continues. Finally done we rode off in the direction of Ibarra, our first stop in Ecuador.
ECUADOR
PERU
BORDER CROSSING - Huaquillas
DATE CROSSED - 04/09/2018
TIME PERMITTED IN COUNTRY - 90 days (3 months)
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport
UK Motorcycle Registration Certificate (V5C)
Drivers Licence
Ecuador Vehicle Import Papers
TIME TAKEN - 1 hr
INSURANCE - $25 per bike per month
COST - Zero
OUR EXPERIENCE
Our experience leaving Ecuador and entering Peru at Huaquillas was one of the best border crossings we've had. Up to date and modern systems in place and no fixers, money exchangers or sellers hassling you. No queues apart from one man in front of us at the Ecuador side.
EXITING ECUADOR
1. On the approach to the Ecuador side, turn left at the sign marked CEBAF. We were then instructed to park on the right hand side right by the Ecuador Aduana. The Soldiers/Police on duty at the time liked our bikes and wanted to look at them.
2. We were pointed in the direction of the Immigration, which simply meant us crossing the road and walking a short distance to the main complex of buildings to get an exit stamp in our passports.
3. We returned to the Aduana where our bikes were parked and handed in our Ecuador Import papers and passports. After entering information into his computer the official handed us back our passports and kept the now cancelled import papers.
4. We rode round the back of the main building complex and through the last check point to turn left and rejoin the main Pan American Norte into Peru.
ENTERING PERU
1. After riding approx. 3 miles you will finally find yourself at the Peru Border Complex. Park in front of the 'PERU' sign
2. Enter the first door of the Immgration building which is behind or in front of you depending on how you've parked. As you turn to face the back of the building, the passport entry stamp desk is on your right, an insurance desk on the left and at the back of the building is the import papers desk.
3. On completion of our paperwork we exited the immigration building and walked over to the shops/cafe area. There is an ATM on the left hand side as you walk towards the the exit of the complex so you can easily obtain Peruvian Sols.
4. We then walked back to the bikes and rode through the complex to the final check point where they will ask to see your papers before you can return to the Pan American Norte road into Peru.
5. We stayed in a hotel at km 1234.5 Pan American Norte, Zorrittos called El Delfin. An excellent place to stay about 42 miles from the border and safe parking for motorcycles.
EXTENDING YOUR STAY IN PERU
1. Extend your personal visa online at Superintendenci National de Migraciones. Scroll down the front page to 'Extend your stay online'. Click on that first and then on 'Generar Prorroga'. Complete the online form with your details. When it gets to 'Días Prorroga Solicitados', this means 'How many days' do you want. At this point it's important to know that as a tourist you are only allowed 6 months or 183 days in any one year. So.… if you've already been given 3 months/90 days at the border on entry, you can only apply for a maximum of a further 3 months/90 days. When you're filling the form out and press enter it may be a little tiresome with the number of days applied for....if 90 days is not being accepted , try putting in 89.
2. Paying for the extension only costs 11.70 sols. You can pay this online at Banco de la Nación or at any of their banks in person, telling them you want to extend your visa and the code for their computer is 1857.You will be given a receipt with a code on whichever way you pay, a paper or email receipt.
3. Back to the online form.....when you push to continue with your form it will ask you to imput the code number from your payment receipt. As there are several numbers on the receipt it's not always clear exactly which one it is. I had a couple of attempts before I got the right one so don't get too disheartened if it doesn't go through straight away, just play with the numbers and eventually it will accept. You then need to wait for the Banks computers to talk to the Migraciones computers....ie, recognise the receipt payment number. You may encounter a delay here. It took me about 3 hours to do two applications.
4. Finally you will receive your extension as an email attachment. Print two copies of this and keep one in your passport as this replaces your normal passport stamp.
5. Now to extend your motorcycle/vehicle Import documents for those that have them. This can be done in Lima at the Air Customs and Postal building, Centro Aereo Comercial, Av. Elmer Faucett, Callao 07036, Peru. See maps below.
6. We caught a taxi to the Air Postal building from Miraflores where we were staying. The reason for our extension was because I had broken my ankle. Some of the taxi drivers are a little unsure of how to get into the entrance of this building, so a good place to direct them to is at the back of the Holiday Inn. You may be asked to pay to enter the car park.
7. At the entrance of the building there is a security booth. You have to leave your passport here before you are given a pass to enter.
8. Once inside you will see lots of windows. You will need to sit and wait at the 'Seccion de Despacho de Importaccines'. Hand all your vehicle paperwork in plus your import papers and explain to the official that your passports are at the entry booth. You will be given some forms to complete and sign and asked how long you require the extension for. Don't worry the official will help you if you get stuck. The official will collect your passports from the entry booth and they may ask you to accompany them upstairs to print off and sign some more forms.
9.The official will hand your passports back to the entry booth. Once your paperwork is complete the official will inform you that you will receive email confirmation of your extension within a few days. They will also inform you to contact them and give you a telephone number to call in case your extension is delayed. We spent about an hour here sorting the paperwork out.On your way out, hand your visitor pass in and collect your passport.
10. We received our extensions after two weeks but only because apparently somebody had been off sick. Once you receive your email notification and attachment, print two copies off and keep one in your passport. This is your new Import Paper for your motorcycle/vehicle.
PERU
BOLIVIA
BORDER CROSSING - Desaguadero
DATE CROSSED - 16/01/2019
TIME PERMITTED IN COUNTRY - 30 days (1 month)
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED - Passport
UK Motorcycle Registration Certificate (V5C)
Drivers Licence
Peru Vehicle Import Papers
TIME TAKEN - 1 hr
INSURANCE - None at border. Purchase in La Paz. We bought 6 months insurance for the rest of our trip for Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, Paraguay, Brazil and Uruguay for $160 each from Seguros Illimani.
COST - Zero
OUR EXPERIENCE
A little difficult to find the new complex initially as they need to improve their signposting but once there, another easy, modern border, where you stamp in and out of each country in the same room and simply ride around the corner to the Customs office where again you import and export in the same place. Peru and Bolivia working together.
1.After you've turned left into the entrance of the complex an Official will stop you. He will ask for your passport and write down your passport numbers and names.
2. Park up and enter the office indicated on the map. Inside you will see a set of desks/counters in front of you. The left set is Peru and the right set is Bolivia They are signed and there is a queue for each country. Get your exit and entry stamps here first before moving your vehicles/bikes.
3. Ride around the corner and stop at the Customs office underneath the canopy.
4. An Official will ask you which country you are exiting first and check your vin numbers and number plate. Hand your papers into the Peru window in this case for the Peruvian Import papers cancelling.
5.Next hand in your papers to the Bolivia window for your Import. An Official will check your vin numbers and number plate again before your Bolivian Import papers are processed.
6.Ride forwards and left to the exit. An Official will again ask for your passports and 'check you out' of the car park.
7. As you ride away from the complex and towards La Paz you will find that there are a lot of wagons parked both sides of the road and facing both ways (you may have noticed some on your way into the complex). In some places they have reduced the road to a single lane. Just ride past them all but take care as some of them set off without warning. Just before a small bridge you may encounter two men who may try and stop you and usher you into a car park for money. Ride past with a smile and a polite 'No Nescito'. You will then pass under another canopy area again with lots of wagons parked both sides. Just carry on riding. As you leave the outskirts of Desaguadero you may be stopped again by another Policeman at a checkpoint. He just asked us our Nationality and where we were going but seemed more interested that we had cameras mounted on the helmets.
8. Insurance - As mentioned above we bought ours in La Paz at Seguros Illimani (RSA Insurance Group Network Partner) purchasing 6 months for $160 each covering us for the rest of our trip in South America. You can view their website on the link above or you can contact them by email. On the same street as the Insurance Office there are also Money Exchange Offices if you haven't managed to change any money yet.
Lic. Daniel Arce S. - Gerente De Operaciones - darce@segurosillimani.com.bo
Tel; (591-2) 2392392
Address - Piso 10, Edificio Mariscal de Ayacucho, Loayza 233, La Paz
## MORE SOUTH AMERICAN BORDERS COMING SOON ##
