South America is a continent of unparalleled natural and cultural riches, and a luxury travel here goes far beyond sophisticated resorts and hotels. Between exotic landscapes, vibrant culture and exclusive experiences, there are several options for those who want to combine comfort and adventure. From popular destinations to hidden gems, we’ll explore some of the most incredible luxury travel spots in South America.
Travel through South America
Patagonia, Argentina and Chile
Patagonia is one of the most coveted destinations for nature and luxury lovers. The immensity of ice fields, imposing mountains and crystal-clear lakes offers a setting that seems straight out of a fairy tale. For those looking for comfort, there are several luxurious accommodation options, such as Explora Lodge and Awasi Patagonia. These hotels offer exclusive guided trail experiences, private tours and dinners prepared by award-winning chefs, all amid the grandeur of untouched nature.
The most expensive destination in South America is generally Patagonia, especially the region that covers southern Argentina and Chile. Specifically, Torres del Paine National Park (Chile) and Los Glaciares National Park (Argentina) are quite expensive, especially for those seeking a luxury experience.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Visiting Machu Picchu is an experience that any luxury traveler should have on their bucket list. And the most sophisticated way to discover this wonder of the modern world is by boarding the Belmond Hiram Bingham, a luxury train that connects Cusco to Machu Picchu. The route is an attraction in itself, with stunning landscapes and services that include gourmet meals, live music shows and exclusive tours.
For those who want to extend their trip, Cusco and the Sacred Valley offer several luxury accommodation options, such as the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, located close to Machu Picchu, offering exclusivity and tranquility to travelers.
Atacama Desert, Chile
The Atacama Desert, known as the driest place in the world, is a destination that mixes adventure and exclusivity. Surrounded by volcanoes, salt flats and unique rock formations, the scenery is breathtaking. Luxury accommodations, such as Tierra Atacama and Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa, offer everything from outdoor spa treatments to private desert tours, such as stargazing with powerful telescopes, personalized trails and romantic dinners under the starriest sky ever. you’ve seen it.
Chapada dos Veadeiros, Brazil: Glamping Hidden Treasure
For those looking for a luxury experience amidst Brazil’s wild nature, Chapada dos Veadeiros is a destination that mixes natural beauty and sophisticated accommodation options. Within an environmental preservation area full of waterfalls, trails and breathtaking landscapes, Glamping Hidden Treasure appears as a unique accommodation option.
Unlike traditional hotels, glamping combines the concept of camping with all the comfort of a luxury hotel. At Hidden Treasure, you stay in geodesic tents with spectacular views of Morro da Baleia and the stars. Cozy bed, soaking tub, minibar, and a complete dining experience, prepared with local ingredients. It is the perfect refuge for those who want to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature.
Galapagos, Ecuador
The Galápagos Islands are world-renowned for their unique fauna, which includes species such as giant tortoises and marine iguanas. To explore this natural paradise in style, Pikaia Lodge is one of the most exclusive options, offering a sustainable experience without compromising comfort. Situated in a strategic point, the lodge offers panoramic views of the islands and organizes private boat trips, where you can swim with dolphins, dive with sharks and explore stunning volcanic landscapes.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Tropical Luxury
No list of luxury travel in South America would be complete without mentioning Rio de Janeiro. The wonderful city offers a unique combination of beach, mountains and vibrant urban life. For those looking for exclusivity, the Hotel Fasano in Ipanema or the Belmond Copacabana Palace offer iconic views and top-notch services. To complete the experience, private boat trips around Guanabara Bay or helicopter aerial tours around Christ the Redeemer are unforgettable options.
Extra Tip: Pousada Trijunção
Pousada Trijunção is a luxury eco-hotel located in the Brazilian Cerrado, on the triple border of the states of Minas Gerais, Goiás and Bahia, within the Trijunção Private Natural Heritage Reserve (RPPN). The region is known for its rich biodiversity and the preservation of the Cerrado biome.
The proposal of Pousada Trijunção is to provide guests with an experience of deep contact with nature, without giving up comfort and luxury. The inn is famous for its ecotourism activities, such as bird watching, night safaris to see animals such as anteaters and maned wolves, ecological trails and canoe trips.
In addition to activities aimed at environmental preservation, the inn offers sophisticated suites, all with decor that combines rustic and modern styles. Local cuisine is also a highlight, with typical Cerrado ingredients.
Best South America Travel Itineraries: little-known destinations for a luxury trip
South America is full of iconic destinations like Machu Picchu and Patagonia, but it also hides true treasures that provide a unique luxury travel, far from the crowds. If you’re looking for an exclusive, authentic and luxurious experience, there are a number of lesser-known places on the continent that offer comfort, lush nature and local culture. Let’s discover some of these hidden destinations.
Urubamba, Sacred Valley of the Incas, Peru
Machu Picchu may be Peru’s most famous site, but the Sacred Valley offers a more tranquil and immersive luxury experience. The city of Urubamba, surrounded by mountains and rivers, is home to luxurious hotels such as Tambo del Inka, which mixes comfort with rich Inca culture. In addition to spectacular views, the hotel offers an award-winning spa and private access to the Sacred Valley trails. It is a perfect base for exploring the region, discovering archaeological sites and indigenous villages in an exclusive way.
Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay
Colonia del Sacramento is a historic and charming city, located on the banks of the River Plate, in Uruguay. Known for its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, it offers a luxurious experience for history and culture lovers. Boutique hotels like the Charco Hotel offer intimate and cozy accommodation, with stunning views of the river. Furthermore, it is a perfect destination for those looking for top-notch gastronomy, with great restaurants and wineries nearby.
San Agustin, Colombia
San Agustín, in southern Colombia, is a destination steeped in history, home to some of the largest and most mysterious archaeological sites in South America, but which still remains off the radar of most tourists. For those seeking luxury, Akawanka Lodge offers a unique stay with views of the Andean mountains and private access to archaeological areas. In addition to relaxing amidst nature, you can explore impressive pre-Columbian sculptures and monuments.
Los Roques, Venezuela
The paradisiacal beaches of Los Roques, Venezuela, are a well-kept secret in the South American Caribbean. This archipelago is made up of white sand islands and turquoise seas, perfect for those looking for a secluded luxury experience. Boutique hotels like Posada Mediterráneo offer an exclusive oceanfront stay, with private boat tours and access to coral reefs for diving and snorkeling. It is the perfect refuge for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy the tranquility.
What is the best country to visit in South America?
Choosing the “best” country to visit in South America largely depends on what you are looking for in a trip, as each country offers unique experiences.
Best countries in South America to travel
Brazil
- Highlights: Incredible natural diversity, with paradisiacal beaches, tropical forests (Amazon), Chapadas, Pantanal, vibrant cities such as Rio de Janeiro and Salvador, as well as a rich and varied culture.
Argentina
- Highlights: Buenos Aires is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Latin America, famous for tango and gastronomy. Patagonia is a region of immense natural beauty, with glaciers and imposing mountains.
Peru
- Highlights: Machu Picchu is one of the greatest historical heritage sites in the world, but Peru offers much more, such as the cuisine of Lima, the Nazca Lines and the Amazon rainforest.
Chile
- Highlights: Diversity of landscapes, from the driest desert in the world (Atacama) to the glaciers of Chilean Patagonia. Santiago is a modern capital, and Chile is famous for its wine.
Colombia
- Highlights: Cartagena with its colonial architecture and the Colombian Caribbean, Medellín which reinvented itself as an innovative city, as well as the Amazon and the Andean mountains.
Ecuador
- Highlights: The beauty of the Galápagos Islands is unparalleled, but Ecuador also has the Andes mountain range, rainforests and historic cities like Quito.
Why choose South America for your next Luxury Travel?
South America is a diverse continent full of destinations that offer luxurious experiences, whether in a desert, a paradisiacal beach, or in the middle of the jungle. The region’s biggest difference is the possibility of experiencing unique and exclusive adventures, without giving up comfort. Destinations such as Chapada dos Veadeiros, Galápagos and Patagonia are just examples of how luxury can blend with nature in its most exuberant form.
If you are planning your next luxury travel, consider exploring these destinations that combine adventure, comfort and exclusivity, and be sure to visit Glamping Hidden Treasure, in Chapada dos Veadeiros, for a unique and unforgettable experience!
