Having escaped the human touch, the remote collection of volcanic islands showcases an incredible biodiversity and is home to largely endemic wildlife, that can be found nowhere else on earth. The Galapagos Islands are far removed from the common conception of a tropical paradise, in fact most islands may be devoid of vegetation and others may look more like the moon than Hawaii. However, the ecological wonderland has reached an almost mythological status for the observation and discovery of wildlife. Among its famous visitors is Charles Darwin, who studied the fragile ecosystem of the islands and was inspired to publish On the Origin of Species, subsequently introducing the theory of evolution to the world. Although human involvement is an increasing threat, the blue-footed booby still performs his mating dance right before your eyes and sea lions will twirl around you as you snorkel past. Leave nothing but footprints at this precious World Heritage Site!
Discover the arid and alien-esque landscape of the Galapagos
Now a little more familiar with the awe-inspiring Galapagos Islands, what is the best way to visit them?
Two obvious options arise: to remain land-based and hop from one stunning island to the next or, to sail boat-based through the volcanic archipelago on a cruise. Here is an outline of the best of both options and some guidelines to ensure an unforgettable trip with whichever option you choose.
Spot a blue-footed Booby in the Galapagos Islands
Hotel-based Island Hopping
Most of the islands in the Galapagos archipelago are uninhabited. However, a wide range of luxury and more affordable hotels are sprawled across the main islands. Small boats operate between harbors on the main islands and, a hotel by the sea guarantees splendid views of the sparkling water and a front row seat watching sea-lions cavort on colossal stones and small beaches. Some hotels may also have their own boat services, which may have the most practical and convenient itineraries. Island-hopping, unlike cruising, will allow for much easier access to a wide range of activities such as scuba diving, kayaking, hiking volcanoes or simply strolling through the alien-esque scenery. Don’t miss out on one of the best land-based activities, visiting the highlands of Santa Cruz and its Tortoise Reserve.
Stare at sleepy seals right on the beach
Cruising through the Islands
Most live-aboard boats offer five- to eight- day itineraries, with set departure dates and a set course. Routes are dictated by the Galapagos National Park officials to mitigate crowding and environmental stress. Cruises are the best option for a big-picture panoramic view of the Galapagos Islands, as you will visit many different islands and witness a larger proportion of the Galapagos’ extremely varied flora and fauna than by sticking to the main islands. Indeed, cruises allow access to remote visitor sites on uninhabited islands such as Fernandina in the far west, that are unreachable otherwise. Finally, a cruise is definitely preferable if you are looking to sit back, relax and gaze at the astounding wildlife around you. On a ship, the itinerary is set, meals are taken care of and best of all, your suitcase only needs unpacking once.
Meet the world’s most tropical penguin in the Galapagos Islands
Both cruising and island hopping provide excellent opportunities to discover the world’s most marvelous and unique set of islands. Whether you are soaring through the waters on a relaxing cruise or hiking to the tip of a volcano, your trip to the Galapagos Islands is bound to be unforgettable.
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Best Wildlife and Eco-Lodges in South America
Best eco-lodges in South America’s top wildlife destinations
When it comes to sustainable places to stay, South America is a wonderland of comfortable and just downright beautiful eco-lodges. With arguably the widest variety of eco-lodges in the world, these 5 exclusive lodges aren’t just a place to rest your head at night, but their unique location, proximity to wildlife, focus on sustainability and impeccable services and amenities will add to your vacation in South America. Get ready to discover the best eco-lodges located in South America top wildlife destinations.
There’s nothing quite like waking up and falling asleep in the middle of the Brazilian Amazon at the Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge / Photo by Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge
Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica: Jungle Chic in the Peru’s Amazon
The Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica is situated in the heart of a 17,000 hectare private ecological reserve on the banks of the Madre de Dios River and adjacent to the lush Tambopata National Reserve in the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest. Waking to the symphony of tropical birdsong, exploring the verdant Amazon Rainforest by day and ending your days falling asleep to the sounds of the Amazon is all part of this natural Amazon experience. Read more about the Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica…
Finch Bay Eco Hotel: Relaxation & Wildlife in the Galapagos
Named after the famous Darwin’s Finches, the charming Finch Bay Eco Hotel is just a stone’s throw away from the beach on the Galapagos Island of Santa Cruz. The hotel enjoys a quiet location offering privacy, natural surroundings and superb attention to detail service. Read more about the Finch Bay Eco Hotel…
The Finch Bay Eco Hotel has a beautiful and secluded location allowing you to relax surrounded by the Galapagos’ nature / Photo by Finch Bay Eco Hotel
Refúgio Ecológico Caiman: The gateway to the Pantanal
Located in Brazil’s southern Pantanal wetlands, the Caiman Ecological Refuge is a stunning eco-pioneering lodge. Established in 1985 as the first eco-tourism project in the southern region of the Pantanal, the Refúgio Ecológico Caiman Lodge combines the beauty of the surrounding nature and local culture. Read more about the Refúgio Ecológico Caiman Lodge…
Get close to the Pantanal’s nature and culture while staying in the comfortable Refúgio Ecológico Caiman / Photo by Refúgio Ecológico Caiman
Rincón del Socorro: Tradition & Wildlife in Esteros del Ibera
The Rincón del Socorro Lodge was built in 1896 in classic Spanish style architecture and is the best and most luxurious eco-estancia in the Esteros del Ibera wetland area in north eastern Argentina. Loosely based on the concept of a traditional Argentine estancia (ranch) the lodge is made up of a series of buildings dispersed around the main building. Read more about the Rincón del Socorro Lodge…
After exploring the beauty and wildlife of the Esteros del Ibera wetlands, take a refreshing swim in Rincón del Socorro’s swimming pool / Photo by Rincón del Socorro
Finch Bay Eco Hotel: Relaxation & Wildlife in the Galapagos
Named after the famous Darwin’s Finches, the charming Finch Bay Eco Hotel is just a stone’s throw away from the beach on the Galapagos Island of Santa Cruz. The hotel enjoys a quiet location offering privacy, natural surroundings and superb attention to detail service. There are 21 air-conditioned rooms at this eco-hotel which has won the World Travel Awards category of South America’s Leading Green Hotel every year since 2012 (2012-2016). This hotel is the perfect option if you’re looking for an alternative way to experience the Galapagos Islands and prefer to end the day with your feet on dry land rather than staying on a Galapagos cruise. The Finch Bay Hotel’s prime position in the Galapagos means that you don’t need to worry about missing out on visiting the other islands as you can take a number of day cruises to the other islands of the Galapagos. After a day at sea and exploring the fascinating endemic species of the Galapagos, nothing quite beats being able to relax next to the Finch Bay’s swimming pool with a cool drink while watching the sunset over the horizon and beach. Discover more eco-lodges in South America’s top wildlife destinations…
The Finch Bay Eco Hotel has a beautiful and secluded location allowing you to relax surrounded by the Galapagos’ nature / Photo by Finch Bay Eco Hotel
With some of the remotest corners of the world, South America has some of the best wildlife destinations in the world. Year after year perseverant travelers grab their cameras and binoculars before traveling to South America to seek out the much sought after wildlife in the some of the region’s most pristine and natural habitats. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just interested in coming face to face with some of the rarest and most spectacular wildlife in the world; these breathtaking destinations in South America will be sure to bring out the nature-lover within.
Come face to face with the best of South America’s wildlife.
The quintessential Amazon experience in Brazil & Peru
Get up close to the wildlife of the Galapagos Islands.
An unmissable wildlife adventure in the Pantanal
Located in the southwest of Brazil, the Pantanal is the world’s largest freshwater wetland. Less glamorously known as the ‘World’s Swamp’, the 81,080 square miles of wetland is 10 times larger than the Florida Everglades and is a similar size to the country of Portugal.Read more about the wildlife of the Pantanal…
Hang around with the magnificent wildlife of the Pantanal.
Peninsula Valdes’ mighty marine wildlife
The 250 mile long stretch of the Peninsula Valdes coastline is one of the top wildlife destinations in Argentina. From lethargic elephant seals and rare Southern Right Whales to adorable penguins and acrobatic dolphins; Peninsula Valdes is one of the most important areas in South America for marine mammals and birds.Read more about the wildlife of Peninsula Valdes…
An unforgettable whale watching experience in Peninsula Valdes.
The unspoiled wetlands of Esteros del Ibera
One of the best detours you can make while traveling in Argentina is to Esteros del Ibera. While second to the Pantanal as the largest wetland area in the world, the Ibera Wetlands are just as stunning and diverse as those found in its Brazilian neighbor. Read more about the wildlife of Esteros del Ibera…
There are plenty of wildlife photo opportunities in Esteros del Ibera.
Colombia’s Coffee Region will satisfy all your senses.
Thanks for visiting our Central & South America Travel Blog! Feel free to contact one of our Travel Specialists via email, phone or chat to plan your perfect trip to South America.
Touring the Galapagos Islands
Awe-inspiring biodiversity in Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands
Visiting the Galapagos is an extremely special experience not only because of the diversity of wildlife on offer or, its history as the inspiration behind Charles Darwin’s ‘Theory of Evolution’ but; instead of staying in hotels, you’ll travel around and stay on beautiful vessels. Sitting right on the equator, there is never a bad month or season to travel to the Galapagos Islands. The Galapagos Islands are a hive of activity where every month there is something going on. In January, green turtles begin laying their eggs, while from June until the end of September you can spend time with the local penguins. Humpback whales begin to arrive to the islands in June and from July through to the end of September the seabird activity is at its peak. In August you can see the sea lions pupping, but if you wait until November, you can spend time snorkeling with the newborn pups or, round off the year in December watching the giant tortoise eggs hatch. The Galapagos is one of the greatest year-round wildlife experiences that allow you to get up close and personal with some of the rarest wildlife on the planet. Read more about South America’s best wildlife destinations…
Get up close to the wildlife of the Galapagos Islands
Thanks for visiting our Central & South America Travel Blog! Feel free to contact one of our Travel Specialists via email, phone or chat to plan your perfect trip to the Galapagos.
South America’s Most Unique Island Vacations
If you’ve ever spent time wondering how Machu Picchu came to be, or how the first explorers felt when they reached the top of Mount Fitz Roy, you know there’s something irresistibly alluring about the idea of a unique experience. Luckily for us, getting to those sweet island vacations in South America‘s most unique places is as easy as booking a flight or boat ride with one of our travel specialists. Whether its speaking to descendants of stone-age settlers or seeing the world’s rarest animals, we’re sure that the Galapagos Islands and Easter Island combine beauty, precious ecosystems, and cultural significance into truly unique experiences waiting for you.
Crab seen during an Island Vacation
♦ Easter Island, Chile
An Easter Island vacation isn’t just one of the most unique trips to South America, it’s one of the most unique and remote trips in the world. The volcanic island, once called ‘Tepito Ote Henua’ meaning ‘center of the world,’ rests 2,300 miles off of Chile’s Pacific Coast. The chance to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site’s extreme remoteness, rich Polynesian culture, and massive moai statutes, is a once in a lifetime opportunity.
The beautiful Easter Island, or Isla de Pascua, was settled by two canoes full of Polynesians over 1,000 years ago. Legend has it that as the islanders began to seep across the tiny island’s coastlines (from the 10th to 16th centuries), its iconic moai statues started to slowly appear. The some 900 moai statues that symbolize the islands history range from 6 to a whopping 65 feet. Standing below them as they peer over the ocean connects travelers to the magic and stillness of the well-preserved history. Don’t be fooled though – the mystery surrounding these impressive monolithic statues isn’t the only thing that makes Easter Island one of our top places to visit in 2016. The unbelievably untouched beaches, balmy climate, and quaint Easter Island hotels, make it one of our favorite places to soak in history and relaxation.
Easter Island’s subtropical climate is shaped by pacific winds and ocean currents, so we suggest visiting this Pacific treasure during the warmer months (January and February) for surfing, biking, and all things beach related. For Easter Island tours that hike through island’s lush green expanse, try the cooler months of July and August.
The unique Galapagos Islands also happen to be volcanic, nestled into the Pacific Ocean, and a renowned World Heritage Site. Instead of Chile though, this fascinating archipelago lies just about 620 miles from the coast of Ecuador. Charles Darwin brought this extraordinary chain of islands to fame after using Galapagos Islands facts in his world-famous evolution theory – but it’s a myth that scientists and researchers are the only people who can enjoy their wonder and majesty. With Class Adventure Travel, a vacation to the Galapagos Islands is as easy as booking any other trip to South America!
Galapagos Sea Life
The Galapagos’ extremely isolated location fosters the world’s most unique endemic species, dynamic ecosystems, and breathtaking cruises. Dancing penguins, kissing fur seals, ocean-going iguanas, and blue-footed boobies are only four of the many species you’ll encounter which only thrive on the archipelago’s 20 islands. Even lodging during your stay in the Galapagos is a unique experience in itself as travelers board luxurious boats where educated guides lead a tranquil cruise through the heart of these diverse islands.
Because they’re so close to the equator the Galapagos Islands only have dry and wet seasons, which to many people’s surprise, are both wonderful times to visit the islands. The dry season, from June to December, is the best time to jump into a Galapagos tour for snorkeling, catching the colorful display of sea life, and bird watching. Whales, penguins, and jumping dolphins dot the blue skies and waters during this exciting time of year as the Humboldt current brings nutrients to the islands. The wet season, from January to May, is filled with short showers that renew verdant landscapes and signal a different version of new life. As eggs hatch, watch newborn wildlife stretch their legs and explore the islands for the first time – right alongside you!
If all of this adventure has you ready for more, think about following South America’s most unique islands with one of it’s greatest landmarks. Customize your Galapagos islands vacation with a trip to the unforgettable site of Machu Picchu or another unique destination on the mainland of South America so you can go home with an undeniably unique set of lifelong memories.
Galapagos Wildlife
Thanks for visiting our Central & South America Travel Blog! Feel free to contact one of our Travel Specialists via email, phone or chat to plan a trip to South America’s unique Islands.
The Best Places to Visit in South America This Spring
Spent time daydreaming in the office lately? Whether you’re getting restless from the cold fronts and winter storms, or are just eager for that sweet spring escape, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about places to visit in South America. Luckily for us in the Northern Hemisphere, thebest time to visit South America lines up perfectly with the kids being home for spring break. So grab the whole family and join us for our favorite places to visit in South America during the spring.
Mendoza grapes in full fall harvest.
♦ Argentina: Buenos Aires, Patagonia, Mendoza & Bariloche
Whether you’ve got high schoolers eager to hike, college kids ready to fall in love with good wine, or someone who just wants to watch the leaves change, touring Argentina in autumn is the answer. As the balmy weather turns crisp, there’s no better time to discover the magic of an afternoon maté and medialuna.
After the sweltering Buenos Aires summers, the city picks up its feet with a smooth breeze and slides into a beautiful fall. Mild weather and a cultural calendar bursting with activity make it an exciting time to enjoy the area’s tree-lined boulevards.
Adventure-seeking families are in for a treat; this time of year is a shoulder season for Argentina’s National Parks, so you’ll see friendly temperatures and less foot traffic while touring Patagonia’s iconic glaciers. With thinner crowds and clearer skies, your family can get a perfect view of some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes.
If you’ve convinced a college kid to come along, they won’t be disappointed by a chance to develop their palate with Mendoza’s finest wine harvest. But Mendoza’s not just for those of legal age, a dip in the region’s natural hot springs or a zip line through its colored canyons are sure to have the whole family remembering this trip with a smile.
However you chose tovisit Argentina, don’t miss Bariloche’s breath-taking lake district, where skiers, fisherman, and general leisure enthusiasts of all kinds gather for South America’s most impressive foliage. Seeing the magical leaves will send you back to the office feeling full of color and life.
El Calafate, Patagonia, Argentina.
♦ Brazil: Rio de Janeiro & Iguazu Falls
Though there’s never really a “bad” time to visit Brazil, fall is a sweet spot because it’s emblematic beaches and waterfalls are free of their infamous crowds.
If getting an early start on your tan with a coconut in hand sounds right up your alley, Rio de Janeiro is the place to be. After summer vacationers and Carnaval crows have gone back home, Rio’s warm autumn weather and affordable accommodations await travelers who want a glimpse of the next Olympic city. Spend your family spring vacation exploring the Rio de Janeiro’s beaches and botanical gardens at your own pace, all while reveling in the reinvigorating energy Rio has all year long.
Iguazu Falls is a site to marvel at and arguably one of the best places to visit to in Brazil. With heights over 80m and an average flow of over 60,000 cubic feet per second, the falls are some of the grandest in the world. Though Iguazu spans the borders of Argentina and Brazil, the Brazilian side’s special treat is the massive Devil’s Throat Gorge – a paradisiacal fall with a sinister name sure to empower you with its roaring sounds.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
♦ Ecuador: Galapagos Islands
For animal lovers and nature fanatics, the pristine Galapagos Islands are one of the best places to visit in Ecuador and really, in the world. Because of their remote location along the equator, the 18 volcanic islands always enjoy have bright blue skies and sunshine ready for visitors. The real draw during the fall is the incredible wildlife you’ll see in this season. Think courting penguin couples, unforgivably cute sea lion pups, and fuzzy blue-footed booby chicks all out and about waiting for the whole family to play.
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.
♦ Peru: Machu Picchu
Because of its insane popularity, Peru’s Inca trail and Machu Picchu are often booked and brimming with tourists. The shoulder months of April, May, and June (between the dry and wet seasons), are the best time to visit Machu Picchu and get the entire family on the trail. We can guarantee you won’t regret making memories along the path leading to the world’s most wonder-filled ancient citadel.
Machu Picchu, Peru.
Thanks for visiting our Central & South America Travel Blog! Feel free to contact one of our Travel Specialists via email, phone or chat to book your perfect spring vacation in South America.
Best Family-Friendly Destinations in Latin America
The idea of planning a family adventure to Latin America can be daunting when considering the incredible variety of sights and activities the beautiful continent has to offer.
Not to worry, whether it’s experiencing wildlife and nature preserves first hand, traveling back in time to revisit ancient history or partaking in excursions that you want, there is something for every family in Latin America.
From trekking on Argentina’s glaciers to zip-lining through Costa Rica‘s rainforest, we’ve chosen our favorite family-friendly destinations in Latin America to get you started on your way.
Los Glaciares National Park
♦ Walk along Patagonia’s awe-inspiring glaciers
The Patagonian glaciers in the South of Argentina are some of nature’s most impressive achievements, and for families seeking a hands-on adventure, a trip to the Los Glaciares National Park is not to be missed. A mini-trekking tour of the Perito Moreno Glacier gives visitors the chance to see the massive ice formation from afar during a walk along the Magallanes Peninsula before they strap on crampons and follow a professional guide on a tour of the icy surface itself. Due to the rigorous nature of the mini-trekking experience, we recommend family members be between the ages of 10 and 65
The sail back to land across Lake Rico finishes the day with the incredible sights and sounds of glacier pieces crashing into the water (an experience you’ll surely want a camera for).
If traversing ice isn’t for you, an equally amazing alternative is a visit to Estancia Cristina where a cruise along Lake Argentino will get you an unforgettable seat in front of icebergs and one of Patagonia’s largest and most treasured glaciers, Upsala. The estancia, wrapped in the typical Patagonian landscape, is a peek at what it’s like to live amidst the glaciers in the majestic Los Glaciares National Park. Though the park is a white wonderland year-round, the coolest temperatures set in from June to September before warming up again for the longer summer days of December to February.
Explore the icy landscape of Perito Moreno with an experienced guide
♦ Go back in time to Guatemala‘s “Lost City”
For families excited at the idea of traveling in space and time, a visit to Guatemala’s mystical Tikal National Park transports guests through a thick green jungle to the heart of ancient Mayan culture.
The park, which is also a UNESCO site of Human Patrimony, is the largest existing Mayan city where archaeologists believe the Maya settled around 900 BCE.
A walking tour through the five main temples of Tikal provide visitors with the daunting beauty of the surrounding jungle and an in depth explanation of how the very palaces and temples they stand before became the Mayan center for commerce, culture, and ceremony. Don’t worry about the weather, Guatemala’s mild climate makes it easy to visit all year long, and though the winter months are rainier than others, downpours end quickly and should not interrupt your stay. If you have more time and are eager to dig deeper into Mayan history we recommend exploring the rest of Guatemala’s Peten region with visits to the Ruins of Yaxha, Flores Island, or simply hiking in the jungle to see the ruins from stunning viewpoints. No matter what you choose, including Guatemala in your trip is an unbelievable way to experience Mayan culture like no other place in the world.
Explore the mysterious ruins of the Ancient Mayans in Tikal
♦Play with the world famous wildlife on the Galápagos Islands
Natural scientist Charles Darwin was so impressed with the variations in endemic species he found in the Galápagos Islands that he used them to develop his theories on natural selection and evolution.
For wildlife enthusiasts and explorers alike, a trip to these islands is an opportunity to see and be a part of one of the world’s most valued ecological reserves (not to mention the chance to interact with the incredible variety of species unique to these islands!).
The natural archipelago was formed between 3 and 10 million years ago when volcanic activity split the earth’s surface open and now the islands rest peacefully off the western coast of Ecuador as a national park, biological marine reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dry season is from June to December and wet is from January to May but because of the archipelago’s position along the equator, visitors are welcomed by warm weather all year. Instead of planning your trip around wet vs. dry, we suggest checking out this guide to see when your favorite wildlife will be out and active. Whether watching green turtles lay their eggs in January or playing with sea lion pups while snorkeling in November, there’s no doubt that a trip to the Galápagos will fascinate families with its beauty and bustling wildlife.
Snorkel with these adorable Galápagos sea lion pups in November
♦ Pioneer a new travel experience in enchanting Cartagena
Cartagena is a colonial port city nestled into Colombia’s Caribbean coast filled with colorful cobblestone streets, 16th century history plazas, and flavorful seafood, making it an ideal destination for families hoping for a leisurely tropical vacation. As if the enchanting atmosphere isn’t alluring enough, visiting Cartagena offers guests a rare chance to encounter what feels like a relatively “unexplored land” because, despite it being well connected to international and domestic airports, the town charmingly lacks an international tourist presence.
Cartagena’s consistently warm and humid climate make it a great place to visit all year, though it can get hot during the middle of the day for which we recommend packing lightly and taking afternoon swims.
Time can be passed easily by exploring the cathedral or iconic clock tower in the city center (which also happens to be UNESCO World Heritage Site) or taking a day trip to the Rosario Islands which, just off the coast of Cartagena’s white beaches, give everyone from beginners to experts the good fortune to snorkel in the dazzling reef. The flower-packed balconies, lunches of freshly caught fish, plantains and coconut rice, and unforgettably azure water are sure to sweep every adventure seeking and lounge loving member of the family off their feet.
Fall in love with Cartagena’s colonial charm
♦ Zip-line above Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano
Few places offer thrill seekers the opportunity to explore the rainforest like the northern lowlands of Costa Rica do. Home to some of the world’s most magnificent cloud forests, pastures, and wetlands, a visit to the Arenal Volcano National Park and nearby town of La Fortuna is an impeccable choice for families who want walk alongside monkeys one day and swing through the greenery like them the next.
After parents enjoy a smooth cup of Costa Rican coffee in the morning the whole family can get an exclusive bird’s-eye view of the park’s dormant volcano while zip-lining through the treetops or exploring the diverse ecosystem of the Hanging Gardens by foot.
Those who can’t get enough of the adventure might want to challenge themselves with a hike down to the Cataratas de La Fortuna’s cascading waterfalls or an encounter with ‘Sabanero’ (Costa Rican Cowboy) culture on a horse ride along the Don Tobias trail. Perhaps after all of your adventure heavy activities, we recommend sitting back and enjoying the lush scenery with a dip into La Fortuna’s natural hot springs. Weather patterns for the Northern Plains can be tricky and guests will have luck with unrestricted views of Arenal’s volcano from February to April, which are the hottest, driest and busiest months of the year. Like with many other family friendly destinations, you shouldn’t count out the rainier season from June to mid-November as the rain brings the forest alive to its fullest color. The shoulder months to the dry and wet seasons from May to June are also great times to visit, with small chances of precipitation that provide fresh, clear air.
Zip-line through the trees of Costal Rica’s Arenal Volcano National Park
Thanks for visiting our Central & South America Travel Blog! Feel free to contact one of our Travel Specialists via email, phone or chat to plan your perfect family itinerary.
Top Hotels For Thanksgiving Getaways in Latin America
With Thanksgiving and the Holiday Season creeping closer and the stress of spending hours upon hours prepping for a seemingly endless feast begins to kick in, why not instead get ready for a whole new Turkey Day tradition.
Doesn’t it seem much more appealing to relax in a luxurious and unique hotel, and have all the hard work done for you after a day exploring a new and excited destination?
All you have to do is think about the incredible travel experience that’s waiting for you the following day while trying flavorsome, local dishes in some of the gastronomy capitals of Latin America. So, get ready for our list of the top hotels for Thanksgiving in Latin America that will relieve you of the Thanksgiving stress, post-dinner cleanup while satisfying your annual travel cravings.
Soak up the views of Lake Atitlan from the manicured gardens of Hotel Atitlan / Source
♦ Hotel Atitlan, Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
Surrounded by manicured botanical gardens and overlooking the magnificence of Lake Atitlan and its surrounding volcanoes, Hotel Atitlan is located deep in the awe-inspiring Guatemalan Highlands. Hotel Atitlan is one of the most charming and welcoming boutique hotels in Guatemala and has a unique history as an estate of a family owned coffee plantation.
Combined with its beautifully preserved Spanish colonial architecture, Hotel Atitlan makes every effort to frame the stunning vistas of Lake Atitlan and the Atitlan, Toliman and San Pedro volcanoes, especially from the hotel’s infinity pool.
The rooms are no less spectacular and with each one having a private balcony, you can soak up the views of one of Guatemala’s most precious treasures and one of the most beautiful lakes in the world from the moment you wake up until when to go to sleep.
Hotel Atitlan is situated on the shores of Lake Atitlan & has a warm, Spanish-Colonial style throughout / Source
♦ Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Machu Picchu, Peru
The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is without a doubt one of the best hotels in the proximate area of Machu Picchu. Located at 6,627 ft. above sea level, the hotel occupies a stunning, private 12.3-acre mountain reserve complete with over 372 native orchid species, more than 200 kinds of birds and 111 species of butterfly.
Several miles of trails loop through the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo’s verdant reserve from the doorsteps of the 81 private casitas that are discreetly tucked among the trees.
The main colonial-style property, Andean sauna and local, handmade Andean tapestries give a feeling of warmth and tradition while the comforting and warm Alpaca blankets ensure that you get the best night’s sleep before hiking to Machu Picchu. The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is much more than just a base for visiting the World Wonder of Machu Picchu, and is in itself an exceptional destination.
Get nice & cozy in the luxurious Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel / Source
♦ Casa San Agustin, Cartagena, Colombia
The luxurious Casa San Agustin Hotel located within the historical, colonial walls of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cartagena perfectly portrays the seamless interaction between Cartagena’s contemporary touches and its authentic Colombian style. With 20 rooms including 10 suites all beautifully featuring traditional, colonial furnishings alongside luxurious linens and details; the Casa San Agustin perfectly encapsulates the Cartagena atmosphere.
A refreshing cocktail at the rooftop lounge-bar which offers stunning views over the rooftops of Cartagena’s historical center or taking a dip in the central courtyard pool, provide a welcome retreat from the afternoon Caribbean sun.
If you’re looking for a further touch of luxury, a select number of the guest rooms also feature private plunge pools or Jacuzzis, allowing you to sit back and relax after a day exploring the city’s architecture, museums and gourmet food.
Relax on the peaceful roof terrace of the exclusive Casa San Agustin Hotel in Cartagena / Source
♦ Cormorant Catamaran, Galapagos Islands
Exploring the untouched world of the Galapagos Islands is made only better by the way you can travel and explore these vibrant and beautiful environments. There are a number of luxurious yachts which we provide that allow you to comfortably indulge in the beauty of the Galapagos Islands. One of our most recommended Galapagos boats is the Cormorant Catamaran which is designed with only luxury in mind.
Accommodating up to 16 guests and with the rooms on the upper and main deck having their own private balconies, you can enjoy uninterrupted panoramic views of the Galapagos landscapes around you.
What could be more romantic than after an enchanting day exploring the Galapagos Islands, watching the sun set over the horizon while enjoying a refreshing cocktail on the sun deck or relaxing in the Jacuzzi? The luxurious Cormorant Catamaran and all our Galapagos cruises provide the highest quality of service and accommodation leaving you feeling refreshed and ready to delve into the Galapagos Islands.
Watch the Galapagos landscape go by from the comfort of your spacious cabin / Source
♦ Portofino Beach Resort, Ambergris Caye, Belize
Situated on the pristine northern coast of Belize’s heavenly Caribbean island of Ambergris Caye, the charming Portofino Beach Resort provides the epitome of barefoot luxury. Accessed mainly by boat, you’ll arrive surrounded by the warm, crystal-clear azure waters of the Caribbean with stunning white beaches and swaying palm trees.
The small, boutique Portofino Beach Resort has just 17 bedrooms including beach cabanas and spacious suites, allowing you to find your own peace, quiet and private paradise.
From its freshwater outdoor pool and enjoying a massage on the beach under a traditional thatched palapa hut to exploring the spectacular underwater world with a snorkel; the Portofino Beach Resort is welcomingly unpretentious, focusing on providing a romantic and relaxing getaway in paradise.
Enjoy the barefoot, Caribbean luxury at the Portofino Beach Resort in Ambergris Caye / Source
♦ Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge, Brazilian Amazon
Set deep within the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest, 111 miles from Manaus, the city at the gateway to the Amazon, is the Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge. Situated on the world’s largest fresh water archipelago on the famous Rio Negro, the location of this luxurious lodge means that you are never too far away from the prime Amazon wildlife spots for seeing monkeys, sloths and caiman.
With awe-inspiring views accompanied by the sounds of the surrounding Amazon Jungle, the Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge has 16 cottages and 4 superior bungalows to choose from.
The lodge also has an exclusive restaurant which will introduce you to the unique flavors of the local Amazon cuisine. From swimming with pink river dolphins and fishing for piranhas to hiking and canoeing through the flooded forests of the Amazon with local expert nature guides, the Anavilhanas Lodge experience is the best that the Brazilian Amazon has to offer.
Wake up & fall asleep to the sounds of the Brazilian Amazon at the Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge / Source
♦ El Remanso Lodge, Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica
Hidden deep within a primary rainforest filled with wildlife, El Remanso Lodge is perched above a long stretch of unspoiled beach on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast. Awarded the highest rating for sustainable tourism by the Costa Rica Tourism Board, El Remanso Lodge provides you with a unique opportunity to make the most of the surrounding diverse jungle while feeling comfortable in the 13 charming guest cabins that blend in with its natural setting.
With an extensive trail system from the El Remanso Lodge you can be spotting wildlife, visiting waterfalls or taking long strolls along the beach in no time at all.
Whether you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, rappelling down waterfalls or merely taking time to appreciate the exotic birds and monkeys from the deck of your private cabin; El Remanso Lodge provides you with the quintessential Costa Rica experience.
Have a special eco-tourism experience at El Remanso Lodge in Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula / Source
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