South America is home to some truly stunning luxury hotels, blending exceptional service, breathtaking locations, and world-class amenities. Here are some of the most luxurious hotels in South America:
1. Palacio Duhau – Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Location: Recoleta, Buenos Aires
- Why It’s Great: A historical palace turned into a luxury hotel, Palacio Duhau combines classic elegance with modern luxury. Located in the upscale Recoleta neighborhood, it offers a blend of French-inspired décor, gourmet dining, and a serene atmosphere.
- Key Features: A world-class spa, lush gardens, exquisite dining options, and an exclusive art collection.
- Price Range: $400–$1,500+ per night
- Website: Palacio Duhau
2. Belmond Hotel das Cataratas – Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil
- Location: Iguaçu National Park, Foz do Iguaçu
- Why It’s Great: The Belmond Hotel das Cataratas is the only hotel located within the Iguaçu National Park, offering stunning views of the majestic Iguaçu Falls. Guests have exclusive access to the falls after the park closes, making it one of the most unique stays in South America.
- Key Features: Infinity pool with views of the falls, exclusive access to Iguaçu Falls, luxurious spa, and fine dining.
- Price Range: $500–$1,200 per night
- Website: Belmond Hotel das Cataratas
3. Fasano Rio de Janeiro – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Location: Ipanema Beach, Rio de Janeiro
- Why It’s Great: Fasano Rio de Janeiro epitomizes sophistication and style with its location on Ipanema Beach. The hotel blends modern luxury with Rio’s tropical allure, offering a top-tier beach experience, stunning views, and exceptional service.
- Key Features: Rooftop pool with panoramic views of Ipanema Beach, gourmet restaurants, and a luxurious spa.
- Price Range: $400–$1,200 per night
- Website: Fasano Rio de Janeiro
4. The Singular Patagonia – Puerto Natales, Chile
- Location: Puerto Natales, Chile (Torres del Paine National Park)
- Why It’s Great: Set in the wild Patagonian region, The Singular Patagonia is a luxurious property that combines the rugged beauty of the landscape with refined design and hospitality. It’s an excellent base for exploring Torres del Paine National Park and other remote areas of Patagonia.
- Key Features: Panoramic views of the fjords and mountains, spa with locally inspired treatments, exclusive excursions, and gourmet dining.
- Price Range: $400–$800 per night
- Website: The Singular Patagonia
5. Hotel Unique – São Paulo, Brazil
- Location: Jardins, São Paulo
- Why It’s Great: Known for its avant-garde architecture and modern luxury, Hotel Unique in São Paulo is one of the city’s most stylish properties. It offers impeccable service, exceptional cuisine, and a prime location near top attractions.
- Key Features: Rooftop pool with stunning views, Michelin-level dining at Fasano, and luxurious rooms with contemporary design.
- Price Range: $300–$800 per night
- Website: Hotel Unique
6. Palacio de la Isla – Salta, Argentina
- Location: Salta, Argentina
- Why It’s Great: This 5-star hotel is located in the historical center of Salta, blending colonial charm with modern amenities. With its historical significance and luxurious setting, Palacio de la Isla is an elegant escape that offers both comfort and culture.
- Key Features: Colonial architecture, opulent rooms, and easy access to the vibrant culture and landscapes of Salta.
- Price Range: $250–$700 per night
- Website: Palacio de la Isla
7. Viceroy – Cartagena, Colombia
- Location: Cartagena, Colombia
- Why It’s Great: Set within the walls of the historic Cartagena’s Old Town, Viceroy offers a blend of modern luxury and colonial charm. With sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea and the Old City, it’s the perfect place to unwind in one of Colombia’s most romantic destinations.
- Key Features: Rooftop pool, excellent dining, luxurious rooms, and easy access to Cartagena’s cultural heritage.
- Price Range: $300–$700 per night
- Website: Viceroy Cartagena
8. Awa Boutique + Design Hotel – Montevideo, Uruguay
- Location: Montevideo, Uruguay
- Why It’s Great: Awa Boutique + Design Hotel offers a sleek and contemporary experience in Montevideo with personalized service and a focus on design. It’s perfect for those looking for a trendy and luxurious escape in Uruguay’s capital.
- Key Features: Modern design, personalized service, spa services, and close to the beach.
- Price Range: $150–$350 per night
- Website: Awa Boutique + Design Hotel
9. The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago – Santiago, Chile
- Location: El Golf, Santiago
- Why It’s Great: As one of the most luxurious hotel chains in the world, The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago offers the highest standard of comfort and service. Located in the El Golf area, it’s perfect for both business and leisure travelers.
- Key Features: Michelin-star dining, a luxurious spa, and impeccable service.
- Price Range: $400–$1,200 per night
- Website: The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago
10. Tierra Atacama – San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
- Location: San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
- Why It’s Great: Nestled in the Atacama Desert, Tierra Atacama offers a luxury retreat surrounded by stunning desert landscapes. It combines high-end service with sustainability, offering exclusive excursions to explore the surrounding natural wonders.
- Key Features: Desert views, wellness-focused spa, fine dining, and exclusive tours to the desert’s salt flats and lagoons.
- Price Range: $800–$1,500 per night
- Website: Tierra Atacama
11. Estancia Vik – Punta del Este, Uruguay
- Location: Punta del Este, Uruguay
- Why It’s Great: Estancia Vik is a luxurious boutique hotel located in the heart of Uruguay’s countryside near the beach. Its art-filled rooms and expansive grounds make it a fantastic retreat, offering both cultural immersion and relaxation.
- Key Features: Stunning art collections, expansive grounds with golf, exclusive beach access, and a full-service spa.
- Price Range: $400–$1,200 per night
- Website: Estancia Vik