Atom The Adventure Van
1997 Hyundai GRACE Adventure Van in Santiago
About this van
Atom the van has had a host of wonderful owners and has travelled all through South America as a trustworthy and well-kept van. From high in the Andes (up to 4700m) to the windy dirt roads of Patagonia.
With nearly no electronics, it's easier and cheaper to repair, maintain, and find parts than new vehicles. It has a spacious inside living space but is still small enough to drive everywhere and park easily.
What this van offers
Specifications
Vehicle Details
Fuel & Equipment
Maintenance & Condition
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about buying Atom
How does the title transfer work in Chile?
We use Overandes services just outside Santiago (we're located in Quillota), which specializes in vehicle transfers for travelers. The process typically takes 1-2 days and we'll guide you through every step. You'll need your passport and we'll handle the rest of the paperwork together.
Can I drive this van in other South American countries?
Absolutely! Atom has Chilean plates which makes border crossings much easier than many other countries. We've driven through Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, and more. You'll need to get temporary import permits at borders, but it's straightforward with Chilean documentation.
What's included in the sale?
Everything you see! All the camping equipment (chairs, table, awning), kitchen supplies, bedding, tools, safety equipment, recovery gear (Maxtracks), and even our South America travel tips. Atom is ready to go - you could literally drive away and start your adventure immediately.
How reliable is this van for long-distance travel?
Very reliable! We've driven thousands of kilometers without major issues. The 2005 diesel engine is strong and parts are readily available throughout South America. We've maintained it religiously with oil changes every 8000km and always carry spare fluids and basic parts.
What about insurance and registration?
All current! The SOAP insurance is valid until March 2025 and Revision Tecnica (technical inspection) until January 2025. This gives you plenty of time to get familiar with the Chilean system. We'll show you how to renew everything when the time comes.
Can you accept payment in AUD or CAD?
Yes, we're flexible with currency. We can accept USD, AUD, or CAD at current exchange rates. We prefer bank transfer or cash, and we can help coordinate the payment process to make it as smooth as possible for international buyers.
How long have you owned ATOM?
We've been Atom's owners for our entire South American journey. We bought the van from the previous owners who had also traveled extensively with it. Atom has a great history with responsible travelers who've taken excellent care of it.
Meet the current owners
Tom & Katie
Current owners from Australia
We're Tom and Katie, and Atom has been our trusty home for an incredible South American adventure. Over the past months, this van has taken us through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth - from the high altitudes of the Andes to the windswept plains of Patagonia. ATOM has never let us down, and we've created memories that will last a lifetime.
Now that our journey is coming to an end, we're excited to pass Atom on to the next adventurers. We know how daunting the paperwork and buying process can be in a foreign country, so we're here to help every step of the way. As English speakers who've been through this process ourselves, we'll make sure you have everything you need for a smooth transfer. Send us a message on Facebook and let's chat about your South American adventure!