Hotels in South America that elevate the experience through singular settings

Traveling through South America means crossing some of the most striking natural landscapes in the world.

In this special curation of hotels across South America, each property has been selected for its ability to transform its surroundings into an experience, whether through architecture seamlessly integrated with nature, expert-led expeditions, or the level of privacy and service offered.

This is a selection by Douglas Vojivoda, bringing together properties where design, authenticity, and a sense of place engage in a rare dialogue. These are hotels that elevate travel to another level, revealing the continent from privileged perspectives. Discover them below.

Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Cartagena, Colombia

In the heart of Cartagena’s walled city, Cartagena, Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Cartagena occupies a collection of meticulously restored historic buildings, preserving its colonial heritage while incorporating a contemporary aesthetic. Overlooking the Caribbean Sea and set among streets steeped in centuries of history, the hotel translates the city’s vibrant energy into a sensory experience that blends original architecture, inner courtyards, and thoughtful design interventions that brightness and materials. Experiences such as guided walks through the historic center, cuisine inspired by local culture, and joyful moments at the sunset on open terraces.

AndBeyond Vira Vira, Pucón, Chile

On the outskirts of Pucón, in Chile’s Araucanía, the hotel AndBeyond Vira Vira brings together lush nature and rural life. Set on a 22-hectare property along the Liucura River, the lodge offers privileged views of Villarrica Volcano, one of the most active in South America. With just over twenty accommodations, including suites and villas, it maintains an intimate atmosphere fully integrated with the landscape. The property features an organic garden, a small farm, and an artisanal dairy producing cheeses, butter, and yogurts served in the restaurant. Hiking trails, horseback riding, rafting, and cultural encounters with Mapuche communities complete the experience.

Awasi Atacama, Chile

Amid the landscapes of Atacama Desert, the hotel offers a personalized journey in San Pedro de AtacamaA limited number of adobe-built accommodations respect the local aesthetic and blend into the surrounding silence, creating a secluded atmosphere where each experience is individually designed with private guides and vehicles. Guests are led through explorations of high-altitude lagoons, geysers, salt flats, and valleys shaped over time. Upon returning, they find a setting devoted to contemplation, cuisine rooted in Andean ingredients, and one of the clearest skies in the world, ideal for stargazing.

Vik Chile Hotel, Millahue Valley, Chile

Atop a hill surrounded by vineyards in the Millahue Valley, Vik Chile together contemporary art, bold architecture, and wine tourism in a single experience. Its futuristic structure offers panoramic views of the valley and houses suites adorned with works by international artists. The property spans thousands of hectares of preserved nature and vineyards producing award-winning labels from Vik Winery, recognized by international critics. Private tastings, horseback rides through the vines, and wine-paired dinners are part of the daily rhythm for guests.

Casa de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina

Among vineyards stretching to the foothills of the Andes, Casa de Uco is set in the Uco Valley with a concept that combines contemporary architecture and wine tourism. Minimalist lines, reflecting pools, and expansive openings create a continuous relationship with the landscape, while the experience unfolds from the winery itself through guided tastings,seasonal harvests, and wine-paired dinners that reveal the identity of local labels. Activities such as sunset horseback rides and picnics among the vines further enhance the sensory character of the stay.

Las Casitas, A Belmond Hotel, Colca Canyon, Peru

In the dramatic setting of Cânion do Colca, Las Casitas, A Belmond Hotel is spread across a remote valley with private accommodations featuring terraces and heated plunge pools overlooking the Andean landscape. The result is a serene environment that invites contemplation. The destination experience includes hikes along ancient trails, visits to local communities, and the observation of condors soaring above the canyon, integrating nature and culture at an unhurried pace, complemented by wellness rituals and cuisine that highlights Peruvian ingredients.

Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel, Cusco, Peru

In the heart of Cusco, Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel occupies a carefully restored 16th-century monastery , where colonial heritage and Andean culture intertwine in every detail. Built on Inca foundations and arranged around a central courtyard marked by a centuries-old cedar tree, the property preserves stone arches, sacred art, and quiet corridors that evoke the region’s history. The experience is defined by a contemplative atmosphere and careful attention to well-being at high altitude, with rooms adapted for enhanced comfort and oxygenation. Gastronomy highlights Peruvian ingredients through refined interpretations, while experiences such as Andean music performances and easy access to the Sacred Valley’s historical sites deepen the connection to the destination, transforming each stay into an immersion in the essence of Cusco.

Fasano Punta del Este, Punta del Este, Uruguay

Designed by Brazilian architect Isay Weinfeld, Fasano is set within an expansive rural estate near sophisticated Punta del EsteIts minimalist architecture uses large glass surfaces to integrate interiors with a landscape of rolling hills and lagoons. The resort features a spa, refined dining venues, and a golf course designed by legendary golfer Arnold PalmerThe experience also includes exclusive access to the Fasano Beach Club on Uruguay’s coast, combining nature, design, and contemporary style.

Awasi Santa Catarina, Santa Catarina, Brazil

Between the preserved Atlantic Forest and Brazil’s southern coastline, Awasi Santa Catarina offers an experience defined by privacy and a deep connection with its surroundings. With just a handful of independent villas, each featuring a private pool and open views of nature, the hotel follows a concept of fully personalized journeys, shaped at each guest’s pace. In a still largely undiscovered region, the destination reveals untouched beaches, trails through native vegetation, and tailor-made experiences ranging from coastal hikes to boat excursions. The architecture emphasizes natural materials and integration with the landscape, while discreet service reinforces an atmosphere of refined seclusion, where every detail invites guests to explore the territory in an intimate and exclusive way.

Mashpi Lodge, Ecuadorian Cloud Forest

At the heart of the protected Mashpi Reserve, Mashpi Lodge emerges as a glass structure suspended among mist-covered mountains. Surrounded by more than a thousand hectares of preserved cloud forest, the hotel offers privileged access to one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet. Guided trails, observation of rare bird species, and the Dragonfly cable car, which glides through the forest canopy, reveal the complexity of this unique environment. The lodge also hosts scientific projects dedicated to studying local biodiversity, transforming each stay into an immersion in both nature and knowledge.

Exploring South America through these hotels is to discover a continent of striking contrasts, home to some of the most diverse ecosystems on Earth. Set within extraordinary landscapes, the properties presented here have been conceived to engage directly with their surroundings and reveal their essence.

More than places to stay, these properties become gateways to understanding the landscapes, cultures , and natural environments that define the continent. For travelers seeking authentic and thoughtfully curated experiences , this selection is only the beginning of the next journey.