You will be sometimes driving on gravel roads in areas that are practically uninhabited. When you plan the stages of your trip, take into account that, with the exception of some paved stretches, your average speed will not exceed 60km/h. Most accidents on little-transited roads are the result of underestimating difficulties. Don’t trust stretches of the road that look good. Slow down to a crawl when you pass a vehicle coming from the opposition direction. When driving on dirt backroads, follow the one you’re on, and keep in the ruts that look like they have had the most traffic recently. Some places in the road may not be as firm as they look. If your driving day will include a particularly isolated stretch of road, take along sleeping bags just in case. A burner, some water and food on board can turn out to be very useful if you have to spend a night out somewhere in the countryside. Check the fuel and tires before leaving the last town for the next several hundred kilometres, and top off the tank whenever possible. Remember to close cattle guard gates behind you, and don’t drive over fields unnecessarily. Help keep roads and paths clean by taking your trash to the next ranch or town for disposal.

In southern Patagonia people are valuable and few. If you see someone at the roadside who seems to be asking for help – stop.