MOTORCYCLE-TOURS · BOLIVIA
Bolivia Motorcycle Trip: The Jesuit Mission
The "Bolivia Motorcycle Trip: The Jesuit Mission by Motorcycle" is a compact motorcycle tour through the breathtaking lowlands of Bolivia (Chiquitania), combining riding pleasure with cultural and natural experiences.
The Journey
The Jesuit Mission Motorcycle Tour
This tour is perfect for motorcyclists seeking an adventure trip through Bolivia, especially those who appreciate photography and cultural highlights. The difficulty level is "Easy," ideal for participants with little to no experience on gravel roads who still want to embark on an exciting off-road Bolivia tour. The "Mission" tour takes you to the impressive, 300-year-old Jesuit missions, the only ones still standing in South America. These seven fascinating mission churches, which have been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1991, are a highlight for anyone interested in culture. Highest riding peak: 1,650m (Samaipata). Besides the cultural aspects, the Chiquitania region offers a variety of natural attractions that can be perfectly integrated into a motorcycle journey through Bolivia. For adventurers aged between 30 and 60, this is an ideal opportunity to experience a motorcycle vacation in Bolivia while discovering the scenic and historical highlights of the country. A motorcycle expedition in South America is always a special experience. With our experienced tour guide, this trip will also be safe and well-organized despite the challenges on site - such as fuel shortages or unpredictable changes. Such expeditions combine the allure of an adventure holiday for adults with the opportunity to experience Bolivia's breathtaking landscapes and rich culture. Flexibility is key to making the most of this South America motorcycle adventure.
Key Highlights of the Trip
Key Highlights of the Trip
Pickup at the airport in Viru Viru, Santa Cruz
Your motorcycle journey through Bolivia to the Jesuit missions begins today. We will pick you up at the airport in Santa Cruz/Bolivia and then drive to the small town of Samaipata (120 km, 2.5 hours). There we will check into a comfortable hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing and exploring. If your flight arrives late, you will need to spend the night in Santa Cruz. In that case, the following day will be counted as Day 1.
Samaipata
We start with an introduction where we learn more about safe driving, our route, the local traffic rules, and each other. To get accustomed to our motorcycles, we ride to the archaeological site "El Fuerte." This ancient Inca city, which developed around the much older largest stone sculpture in the Americas, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some believe it is an ancient alien landing field!
To San Javier (elevation 540 m)
Early in the morning we start our tour on a winding asphalt road towards Santa Cruz. After leaving the traffic behind us, we cross the Rio Grande over a huge modern bridge that runs parallel to the old railway/road bridge from 1959 in Puerto Paila. After two hours of relaxed driving, we stop to admire the impressive mission church of San Javier.
To San Ignacio de Velasco (elevation 410 m)
In San Javier, we visit the first Jesuit mission church with a museum from 1752, then Concepcion, the capital of the missions, where we visit the majestic church. After lunch, we drive through farming communities and take a special gravel road leading to a mysterious black rock in the jungle. The next stop is the fully restored mission church in San Ignacio. The rest of the afternoon, we can swim in a nearby lake or observe local life in the main square.
To San José de Chiquitos
After breakfast, the gravel road portion of the tour begins, and with a little luck, we might see some capybaras (large rodents) on our way to the small village of San Miguel, where time passes more leisurely. We visit a wood art workshop and of course, the mission church. The next destination on our route is the impressive mission church of San Rafael, which has remained intact for 300 years. After a photo stop, we continue our journey to the hidden Santa Anna mission (optional excursion, depending on group approval). For lunch, we stop at a restaurant of a Mennonite religious center. In the late afternoon, we reach our destination: San José de Chiquitos. A photo of the mission church is a must.
Questions about the tour itinerary?
Our tour guide is happy to answer any questions about the day-by-day route, stops, and details.
Santiago de Chiquitos (elevation 620 m)
In the morning we drive on the highway towards Brazil on a well-developed asphalt road to the small village of Chochis. No excursion would be complete without a look at the huge 180 m high rock that stands alone and dominates the landscape. After a short visit to the sanctuary, we reach our hotel in Santiago de Chiquitos, the last mission church of the tour. This last church is architecturally different from the others, but just as spectacular to photograph. In the afternoon we drive to the "Aguas Calientes," a hot river with magical powers. Here we are nibbled by hundreds of small fish, which many visitors perceive as a massage.
To San José de Chiquitos
In the morning we drive to the viewpoint Cumbre de Santiago. Here we are greeted by the sharp transition into the Amazon basin, surrounded by mysterious phallic rock formations - a panorama that should not be missed. After lunch, we return to San José de Chiquitos.
Samaipata
We are heading back on the highway towards Brazil, crossing the Rio Grande and heading towards the metropolis of Santa Cruz. One last special drive awaits us: a very narrow suspension bridge. Caution, it swings! On a winding mountain road, accompanied by wonderful memories and experiences, we make our way back to Samaipata. The hotel pool is already waiting for us…
To Santa Cruz
Late in the morning we set off for Santa Cruz, where we can relax and spend the day in the plaza and shop for souvenirs. In the evening we enjoy our farewell dinner.
To the airport
It is always sad to say goodbye. But who knows? You wouldn't be the first to come back.
Want a detailed description of all tour days?
Our expert will walk you through the full itinerary and answer all your questions.
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Trip includes
- Rental motorcycle: Suzuki DR650SE including SOAT insurance and fuel
- 3 meals per day
- All accommodation in double rooms
- Airport transfers
- Multilingual guide on the motorcycle (The guide speaks five languages)
- Support vehicle (also for luggage transport from 3 participants)
- Entry fees
- Medically trained guide according to IERCC
- Travel guarantee certificate (insolvency protection according to BGB §651r) is mandatory for all OVERCROSS trips.
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Specially prepared new Suzuki DR650SE Dual Sport motorcycles (models 2018/2024) are used.
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It lasts a total of 10 days.
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