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Do I need a Carnet De Passages En Douane (Carnet) to take my motorbike for a holiday in South America (Chile, Argentina, Peru)?

Chris

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 14 December 2009

We always recommend a Carnet for South America. It's almost like having a personal passport for the bike similar to your own passport.

Some countries insist on a Carnet at the border on entry others don't. It provides clear information about the bike and the fact it is a temporary import and can retain and run on its NZ registration.

A Carnet is a good back-up to have in our view even in countries where they say it is not required.

Most people who have taken a Carnet with them to these countries, have reported back it was the right thing to do.

You could try and contact the customs of each country and ask the question, but we have sometimes found what one person tells you via email or by phone is not always a guarantee those same rules will apply on arrival at the border.

Don't let it put you off your holiday, most people who report back say it's a great way to travel and many of them have had more than one overseas adventure travelling on motorbikes.