Embark on your thrilling motorcycle tour in Bhutan with confidence by ensuring you have all the necessary documents in order. Here's what you need to ride smoothly:

1. International Driving Permit (IDP): Ride legally with an IDP, especially if your home license isn’t in English. It’s your ticket to exploring Bhutan’s stunning roads.

2. Passport: Keep your passport handy—it’s your primary ID and must be valid for the duration of your stay.

3. Visa: Secure a Bhutanese visa before you travel. Obtain it through a licensed tour operator or the nearest Bhutanese embassy.

4. Insurance: Protect yourself with comprehensive travel and motorcycle insurance. Ensure it covers medical emergencies, theft, and any damage.

5. Motorcycle Registration: If renting, bring a copy of your rental agreement. For personal bikes, carry your motorcycle’s registration documents.

6. Local Permits: Some regions require special permits. Your tour operator will help you with these to ensure smooth travel.

Get these documents ready to make your Bhutanese motorcycle journey safe, legal, and unforgettable!

Yes, you can bring your own motorcycle to ride in Bhutan, but there are specific requirements and fees involved. Here’s what you need to know:

Requirements and Procedures:

1. Permits and Documentation:

   • Customs Declaration: You must declare your motorcycle at the border and provide necessary customs documentation.
   • Motorcycle Registration: Carry the original registration documents of your motorcycle.
   • Insurance: Obtain motorcycle insurance that covers Bhutan or ensure your existing policy covers international travel.

2. Temporary Import Permit:

   • You will need to apply for a Temporary Import Permit (TIP) for your motorcycle. This permit allows you to bring your bike into Bhutan for a limited period.

3. Customs Duty and Fees:

   • Customs Fees: Pay any applicable customs duties or taxes upon entering Bhutan. The exact amount can vary based on the value of the motorcycle and other factors.
   • Processing Fees: There may be processing fees for the import permit and other administrative costs.

4. Vehicle Safety Inspection:

   • Your motorcycle might need to pass a safety inspection to ensure it meets Bhutanese road safety standards.

5. Local Regulations:

   • Adhere to Bhutan’s road safety regulations and driving rules, including having an International Driving Permit (IDP) if necessary.

Additional Tips:

• Tour Operator Assistance: Consider working with a local tour operator who can help facilitate the import process and ensure all paperwork is handled correctly.
• Advance Planning: Begin the process well in advance of your planned trip to accommodate any potential delays.

Consult with Bhutanese customs authorities or your tour operator for detailed and up-to-date information on requirements and fees before you travel.

Prevention and Safety

Safety is our top priority. To ensure your well-being, we require all riders to wear helmets and armored riding gear and maintain a minimum “2 Second Rule” to keep a safe distance between riders. If you’re feeling unwell on a ride day, you may travel in the support vehicle if available. For groups of 2 or more, our mechanic will ride your bike until you’re fit to resume riding.

Insurance

While we hope you remain injury-free, accidents can happen. We strongly advise having comprehensive travel insurance that covers personal health needs, hospitalization, and repatriation. In remote areas, mobile signals may be unavailable, and helicopter rescue or ambulances might not be accessible. Our tour leader will ensure the best possible evacuation services based on local resources. Note that while your insurance may include helicopter rescue, accessing such services in remote mountain areas may require sending someone to find a working telephone. In case of a serious incident, please provide an alternative emergency contact, and we will notify them of your condition promptly.

Physical Fitness

For a successful motorcycle tour, especially through challenging terrains like the High Himalayas, you need to be in good physical condition. Even tours labeled as “easy” can be demanding, requiring endurance and strength. Regular exercise and fitness training before your trip will help you handle the physical demands of riding and navigating diverse terrains.

Vaccinations

While no specific vaccinations are required for our tours, it’s wise to consult with your personal physician or a travel clinic for personalized advice. This ensures you’re prepared for any health concerns specific to your destination and enhances your peace of mind and safety during the trip.

Tired or Unwell

If you feel unwell on a riding day, you may use the support vehicle if available. For groups, our mechanic can ride your bike until you’re able to continue. Your health is a priority, and we want to ensure you can recover comfortably while still enjoying the tour.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

On tours through the High Himalayas, AMS is a risk due to high altitudes. Symptoms include difficulty sleeping, dizziness, fatigue, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, and shortness of breath. Our local guides are experienced in handling AMS and will assist with treatment. Diamox and oxygen cylinders are available in the backup van’s first aid kit. You may also bring your own Diamox. To reduce the risk of AMS, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, eat carbohydrate-rich meals, and consider chewing coca leaves. Riders with heart or lung conditions should consult their physician before high-altitude travel.

Age Group of Riders

Our tours are open to riders of all ages. More crucial than age is your physical health and fitness. For challenging routes, such as high mountain passes, obtain a medical check-up to ensure you’re fit to handle the demands of the tour. A doctor’s clearance is especially important for high-altitude rides.