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The title does not make any sense? Then bear with us until we have reached the exposed coastal city of Chaiten.
But first things first. The slight drizzle continued in the early morning, but certainly did not stop our crew of 4 to make it to the ferry terminal Caleta La Arena. This 45 km drive served all adventurers to test their vehicles and braking abilities (with luggage onboard). It was all well until in one curve the Suzuki was exploring with a bit too much enthusiasm the grassy area next to the road. But neither bike nor driver took any lasting shock from that detour.
What to do on a ferry for over 3 hours? Frankly, not much. The ride itself was fairly calm with the weather and visibility slowly improving. Time to catch up on some sleep or study the maps and camping possibilities for the night ahead. The app iOverlander would turn out as an absolute gem when it comes to finding hidden and picturesque camping spots.
Speaking of camp spots. Our pick for that crucial first night (the real life test!) fell on a ground just next to the Carretera and in walking distance of Lago Rio Negro. Soft moss on the ground and a wooden shed for cooking were approved to satisfy the needs of the crew. The tents were pitched (it might have taken two attempts...), the lake explored by foot, and finally a drone flight (here he comes, the man of future/technology!). After some carbs in the form of pasta and some non-alcoholic beverages we retreated to our tents.
Relatively well rested did we clear camp in the morning and prepared departure towards Chaiten. A city that would promise us a notary (for the later border crossing to Argentina), a petrol station (we better fuel up, especially the smaller Suzuki tank), a hot dish, yet also unexpected masses of wind and rain. This horizontal rain was an impressive sight while we were 'stuck' in a local restaurant, feasting on a heavy dish and preparing the game plan, i.e. the rain gear.
The following hour saw two yellow-vested motorcyclists (and two happy and dry campers in the car) fighting their way inland, focusing on stabilizing their bikes from the still heavy yet slowly weakening side winds...
Links:
Phone App iOverlander: http://ioverlander.com/
Ferry Hornopiren to Caleta Gonzalo: http://www.barcazas.cl/barcazas/web/hornopiren-caleta-gonzalo/#descripcion-ruta
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