Argentina
As in Chile, Argentinians drive on the right-hand side of the road. Roads are generally
in good condition but could be very narrow in places, making for challenging cycling.
Cyclists will most likely find themselves on Ruta 40, a route that can be challenging
due to weather conditions. Although Ruta 40 is a dirt road, it is generally in good
condition.
Health and safety hazards (please check the CDC website https://wwwnc.cdc.gov)
All three countries are remarkably safe. Petty theft and bag-snatching is a problem in
larger cities, bus terminals and beach resorts in summer. Always keep a close eye on
all belongings. Photographing military installations is strictly prohibited in most
countries. Stray canines are a growing problem for cyclists. Scabies can be common in
street dogs; don't pet those with bad skin problems, as it's highly contagious. Be
prepared for dogs barking and running after you.
Summer in the south brings about the pesky tábano, a large biting horsefly that is
more an annoyance than a health risk. Bring along insect repellent.
Inoculations
Travellers who follow basic, common-sense precautions should have few problems
travelling in Chile, Argentina or Uruguay. None of these countries requires particular
vaccines, but travellers should be up to date with routine shots. Mosquito-borne
illnesses are generally not a problem, while most infections are related to consuming
contaminated food and beverages. Always pack personal medication. Getting a rabies
shot before going on a cycling holiday may be a good idea. If you encounter a rabid
dog, it is most likely to go for those pedalling legs! Under normal circumstances, a
chasing dog will soon lose interest when you stop pedalling.
Recommended vaccinations
Specialised travel medicine clinics can advise which vaccines are recommended for
your trip. Some vaccines require multiple injections spaced out over a certain period;
start the process six weeks before departure. The World Health Organization (WHO)
recommends the following vaccinations for travellers to Chile, Argentina and Uruguay.
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and
rubella, tetanus-diphtheria and pertussis chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and
influenza.
I’m no medical expert, but it’s best to follow the above ideas as we don’t want to be
sick. We want to cycle.
Natural disasters in Chile
Earthquakes are a fact of life for most Chileans. Local construction often does not meet
seismic safety standards; residential buildings are especially vulnerable. The
unpredictability of quakes means there is little that a traveller can do to prepare.
Active volcanoes are less likely to threaten safety since they usually give some
warning. Nevertheless, unexpected eruptions in recent years have the country
monitoring volcanoes more closely than ever.
Natural disasters in Argentina
Tornados, drought and flooding are the most common natural disasters in Argentina,
and they occur mainly in the northern part of the country. Earthquakes also happen
occasionally, but they are less common than in Chile.