Lodges Immersed in Nature
Latin America
The sheer number of Latin American countries is enough to impress any travel advisor – there are a remarkable 20 of them. Each one hides its own luxury lodges set amid extraordinary natural landscapes, many still under the radar. And with demand for high-end travel across Central and South America on the rise, here are a few hidden gems to keep in mind!
Lodges Immersed in Nature
Latin America
The sheer number of Latin American countries is enough to impress any travel advisor – there are a remarkable 20 of them. Each one hides its own luxury lodges set amid extraordinary natural landscapes, many still under the radar. And with demand for high-end travel across Central and South America on the rise, here are a few hidden gems to keep in mind!
New to the Awasi portfolio – and undeniably chic – is Awasi Mendoza, set at the foot of the Andes in the heart of Argentina’s Luján de Cuyo wine region. Formerly known as Cavas Wine Lodge, the property became part of the Awasi group on November 1 and is now welcoming guests. Surrounding the lodge are 35 hectares of picturesque vineyards and olive groves, which can be explored on horseback with the property’s gauchos on private excursions. True to the Awasi philosophy, all experiences are tailored exclusively to each guest, never in groups. Personal guides handle every detail, from private rides to hands-on experiences like traditional harvest rituals or open-air cooking classes. Naturally, curated wine tastings featuring both the lodge's own vintages and select South American labels from the cellar are also on offer. Awasi Mendoza features 17 villas, each designed with understated elegance. Depending on the category, guests can enjoy a plunge pool, fireplace, or rooftop terrace – perfect for a sunset wine tasting. The lodge is also expanding with a new open-air dining area around a firepit, an upgraded spa, and a redesigned restaurant. Good to know: alongside Awasi Mendoza, Awasi Santa Catarina in Brazil has also joined the collection.
Trade Contact: The Sales-Team at Awasi Mendoza
There’s something almost magical about the setting of Bio Habitat Hotel, located near Armenia. Yet there’s no trace of city life here – only the dense cloud forest that blankets the hills of Colombia’s Coffee Triangle in the foothills of the Andes. The view? Absolutely stunning. The hotel was built following the principles of bioclimatic architecture. Every structure responds to its surroundings – sun, wind, humidity, and temperature – creating a naturally balanced atmosphere. Concrete, wood, and glass blend seamlessly with the landscape, minimizing environmental impact and blurring the lines between indoors and out. Guests can choose from eight accommodation categories divided into Mountain Experience and Forest Experience, reflecting their respective views. Some, like the Grand Master Suite Mountain (pictured), feature a private pool. The Bio Spa & Wellness focuses on local healing plants and traditional rituals. Also perfect for unwinding: guided nature walks. Trails wind through the forest past orchids and hummingbirds, inviting guests to hike and spot wildlife. Fresh Colombian flavors take center stage at Basto Resto Bar, where local valley produce, homegrown vegetables, and regional ingredients inspire every dish.
Trade Contact: The Reservations-Team at Bio Habitat Hotel
ANZEIGE – Wir sind Dein verlässlicher Reiseveranstalter-Partner des AER für maßgeschneiderte Privatreisen durch Mittel- und Südamerika sowie weltweit. Aktuelle Vor-Ort-Kenntnisse, ein verlässliches Netzwerk und exklusive Kontakte schaffen dabei Sicherheit, beste Konditionen und verblüffende, unvergessliche Erlebnisse für die Gäste. Für Dich bedeutet das: zufriedene Stammkunden und sichere Abschlüsse. Außerdem garantieren wir ab der ersten Buchung 10 % Provision, ohne Mindestumsatz und flexibel höher einstellbar.
Ihr Kontakt: Dirk Gowin, Geschäftsführer | Telefon · E-Mail · Website
Close to the Belize border, in Bacalar in southern Quintana Roo, lies a stylish member of Design Hotels: Boca de Agua. This boutique retreat features just 22 treehouse villas nestled between jungle and water, with direct access to a 42-kilometer-long (27-feet-long) lagoon that shimmers in shades of blue and turquoise – aptly nicknamed the "Sea of Seven Colors". Opened in 2024, Boca de Agua has since joined the Design Hotels collection. The property was designed by architect Frida Escobedo, who worked with 82 hectares (202 acres) of land – 90 percent of which remains untouched. Surrounded by lush nature, the stilted villas offer serene views and are built entirely from local materials. Guests can choose between three categories: Jungle Treehouse (45 square meter/484 square feet), Master Pool Treehouse (75 square meter/807 square feet), and Two Bedroom Pool Treehouse (90 square meter/968 square feet). At the restaurant Flora, regional and seasonal ingredients take center stage. The property also features a spa shaded by four Chaka trees, a yoga deck, a boutique showcasing local crafts, a bocce court, and a variety of activities – from paddleboarding and kayaking to creative art workshops.
Trade Contact: Andrej Blaho, Senior Sales Manager at Design Hotels
It doesn’t get much more remote or nature-focused than this: reaching Cristalino Lodge in Brazil’s Mato Grosso state starts with a flight to Alta Floresta. From there, it's an hour's drive to a river dock, followed by a boat ride along the Rio Cristalino to the lodge. Set within a private nature reserve in the southern Amazon, this eco-retreat – originally built in the 1990s – has evolved beautifully over time. The accommodations, including distinctive bungalows, are bright and contemporary, featuring natural wood, small gardens, and outdoor showers. The Special Bungalow even adds a chic outdoor bathtub. For sunseekers, there's the Floating Deck, a wooden platform anchored in the river with loungers and a designated swim area. Guests eager to explore can choose from nine Forest Trails, each two to four kilometers (1,24 to 2,5 miles) long, guided by experts who reveal the region's flora and fauna. Four nearby Sierra Trails lead into the surrounding hills, while birders can enjoy four dedicated observation routes and two lookout towers. Canoe trips and private tours can also be arranged for those wanting a deeper dive into the Amazon's wild and diverse beauty.
Trade Contact: Alex Da Riva, Managing Partner
For those seeking an exclusive stay immersed in nature, Eleven Rio Palena Lodge in Patagonia should be on the radar. Tucked away in Chile's remote south, between the Andean peaks and the namesake river, this lodge sits where the road ends – and adventure begins. Guests paddle across glacier-fed lakes, fly-fish in pristine waters, and hike through landscapes few have ever seen. The property offers seven rooms with king or twin beds and private bathrooms. It's a perfect fit for adventurers, families, and luxury travelers eager to explore Patagonia's wild corners. The curated excursions and experiences are exceptional, with the helicopter taking center stage: heli-fishing, heli-skiing, or a scenic private flight – you name it. Even heli-après is part of the fun. Guests can also book guided hiking, biking, kayaking, or whitewater rafting tours. And for something truly unforgettable? Heli-accessed paddleboarding on a glacier lagoon. After the day's adventures, the lodge's chef serves exquisite meals infused with Chilean flavors – a well-deserved reward after a day in the wild.
Trade Contact: The Reservations Team at Eleven Rio Palena Lodge
High in the lush highlands of Santa Cruz Island lies Galápagos Magic Camp & Lodge, where guests share the grounds with giant tortoises slowly roaming the meadows. Those wanting to get closer can stay at the eco-camp, part of the Tropic DMC portfolio. The true luxury here? Untamed nature and proximity to one of the planet's most extraordinary wildlife habitats. Spanning 40 hectares (99 acres), the property features just 16 accommodations and doubles as a refuge for more than a hundred tortoises that wander freely around the site. Guests can sleep in treehouses (pictured), safari tents, or lodges for up to five people – some with glass floors overlooking small ponds for close-up wildlife viewing. By day, hiking boots are laced up for guided walks along nature trails through the highlands. In the evening, locally inspired cuisine is served at D’Cave Restaurant. Just in the mood for a sundowner? Head to the Meadow Bar above the restaurant for a drink paired with panoramic views of the Pacific. Good to know: Galápagos Magic Camp is about an hour's drive from Puerto Ayora town.
Trade Contact: Maria Eugenia de Aliaga, Commercial Manager
Let's Ask the Industry
Is the Luxury Segment Growing in Latin America?
"Demand for travel to Latin America is currently soaring – significantly higher than in the past two years. Countries such as Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay are especially popular for their rich cultural offerings and political stability. Peru is recovering well, and Ecuador is seeing a notable surge in interest. For many travelers, South America represents a safe alternative away from global trouble spots. The luxury segment in Latin America holds tremendous potential and continues to grow rapidly. Increasingly, high-end travelers are seeking authentic experiences paired with exclusive comfort – something traditional luxury destinations often can't provide. Investment in boutique hotels, lodges, and villas is rising steadily, particularly in Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Bolivia. The number of premium expedition ships is also increasing, especially in destinations like the Galápagos and the Amazon. In very remote areas, however, the ultra-luxury offering remains limited – early booking is essential. Unique properties immersed in nature are highly valued by our clients, more than ever before. For many, they are not just places to stay but the true heart of the journey. What matters most isn't necessarily the highest level of luxury, but rather the blend of seclusion, extraordinary location, and refined comfort. Whether in the desert, the jungle, or the mountains, these lodges allow guests to experience nature deeply – without compromising on service or cuisine. Many are also architectural standouts with an emotional wow factor – like the spectacular Mashpi Lodge in Ecuador."
Alice Hansemann-Beier, Senior Travel Advisor, Argentum Reisen (Germany)