These incredible private villas and boutique hotels situated in remote wilderness, nestled in the middle of expansive vineyards, or on faraway islands have always been some of our favorite places in South America. Now, with privacy and space on the forefront of everyone’s minds, the amenities that these hotels already offered are striking us in a new and exciting way. Clear your head and relax in one of these breathtaking settings.
Do you want to have something on the horizon to look forward to? Our regional experts will be here whenever you’re ready to bring your South America vision to life. Reach out to one of our trip specialists at 612-315-2894 or by filling out the short form below and let them know you’d like to incorporate one of these incredible private villas or boutique hotels into your next adventure!
At any one of these unique properties, you can be close with your family or small group of friends, experience adventure, savor incredible cuisine, and enjoy endless wilderness all while in your private casita or cabin. Read on to learn about our favorite South America boutique hotels and private villas.
Our Favorite South America Private Villas & BOutique Hotels
CLOS APALTA RESIDENCE
Nestled in Chile’s Colchagua Valley this 4-villa residence is a classic, elegant, relaxed slice of paradise. Hike, bike, horseback ride, savor world-class wines, enjoy Relais & Châteaux cuisine, and more – this place does not disappoint.
- Insider Tip: Go “all-inclusive” for the best value. This includes all meals – which truly are an experience but not too heavy-handed – visits to neighboring vineyards (choose Neyen; it’s mind blowing), the quirky and super interesting Museo Colchagua, and Santa Cruz town.
- Learn more about Clos Apalta Residence >>
AWASI
Located outside the eastern Torres Del Paine park boundary, Awasi differentiates itself from other Patagonia Luxury lodges by offering totally private excursions to their guests and it is unequivocally the most high-end Patagonia lodge experience. Unrivaled service and staff-to-guest ratio, private excursions, most refined and delicious food (the only lodge in Patagonia that’s Relais & Châteaux), massive villas with private wood-burning hot tub outside. Great for those who prefer intimate settings.
- Insider Tip: Availability here is often challenging, so we recommend booking early!
- Learn more about Awasi Patagonia >>
ESTANCIA CRISTINA
A former ranching outpost of the Masters family, early-20th-century British Pioneers, Estancia Cristina is situated in an isolated valley at the Northern end of Lago Argentina. It’s remote location makes it ideal for an authentic off-the-grid experience.
AGUAS ARRIBA
Aguas Arriba Lodge, located in the heart of the Patagonian wilderness. Accessible only by boat or foot, Aguas Arriba is the ideal basecamp to disconnect from the bustle of modern life and experience the pure, natural wonder of the region. Sit back in this cozy lodge and take in the views over the lake and mountains, go for a trek to discover the surrounding forest, or fly fish on your doorstep.
BUSTAMANTE
Located in Argentina’s Atlantic Patagonia coast region, Bahia Bustamante is the perfect place to clear your mind and immerse yourself in nature. Built on the coast in a national park and private wildlife sanctuary, Bahia Bustamante is a haven for marine wildlife including Magellanic penguins, sea lions, and sea birds. With fewer than 35 guests, Bahia Bustamante offers an exclusive and inclusive experience in Patagonia, with activities guided by on-site specialists including navigations on the water and excursions on land such as hiking, biking, visits to archaeological and geological sites, experiencing local ranch life, and more.
- Insider Tip: Bahia Bustamante is located approximately 3.5 hours from Puerto Madryn, one of the top whale watching destinations in Argentina. If you are interested in whale watching during the October – mid-December whale season, spend a night or two in the city of Puerto Madryn before you continue on to your lodge stay.
- Contact a Knowmad Trip Specialist to learn more >>
GALAPAGOS SAFARI CAMP
9 safari-style tents are positioned thoughtfully in the lush highlands of Santa Cruz island to make up Galapagos Safari Camp. This property defines appropriate luxury, with a focus on sustainability, authentic hospitably, and facilitating once-in-a-lifetime wildlife and nature experiences. They ask and answer the question, “when was the last time you saw something for the very first time?”
ZULETA
A place where long standing traditions are weaved into the pattern of daily life, Hacienda Zuleta dates back to the late XVI century and has belonged to the family of Mr. Galo Plaza Lasso – a former president of Ecuador – for more than 100 years. This property is spectacular; 4,000 acres of working farmland, detailed gardens, an onsite creamery (with cheeses that are only enjoyed on the property or at local markets), a phenomenal equestrian program, hiking, mountain biking, farm-to-table cuisine, and just 17 charming, spacious rooms spread throughout.
CASA YAhRI
Casa Yahri is a fully staffed, and fully inclusive, 4 bedroom private villa in Barichara, a small, charming town – where a relaxed, slower pace of life is infectious – known for its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. There is truly something for everyone in this magical area, from mountain biking and whitewater rafting to coffee plantation visits, cooking classes and more, everyone in your group will be sure to disconnect and enjoy themselves.
- Insider Tip: The minimum length of stay is two nights, but due to travel time to/from Barichara and all the adventure there is to experience in the area, we recommend 4 nights minimum.
- Contact a Knowmad Trip Specialist to learn more >>
SOL Y LUNA
Sol y Luna’s private casitas, dotted throughout the lush, peaceful property and surrounded by the high Andes mountains, are simply enchanting. Being a part of the Relais & Châteaux family, it certainly makes Peruvian cuisine a focal point, but your senses will also be tickled by their colorful décor, extensive gardens, and serene spa.
MACHU PICCHU PUEBLO
Although not your shiny, new, or modern luxury hotel, Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is a slice of heaven with its authentic cabañas surrounded by the lush, green cloud forest, beautiful gardens, and teeming with birdlife. Take a dip in the semi-natural thermal pools after your long day of hiking, or unwind in its unique Andean Sauna heated with hot stones from the river. After dinner (included in the rate) at its fantastic restaurant, finish the evening relaxing in front of your fireplace and toasting to your adventures.
INKATERRA RESERVA AMAZONICA
Reserva Amazonica is a private Amazon Jungle lodge and ecological reserve. Its 35 comfortable cabañas are done in a traditional jungle style and offer more privacy than other lodges. A selection of a-la-carte excursions in the reserve and its surroundings, a spectacular canopy walk way system, and the best food make this jungle stay a relaxing yet adventurous experience and a traveler favorite.
- Insider Tip: Although two night stays are possible, Knowmad highly recommends staying three nights so that you can have two full days for full day excursions.
- Learn more about Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica >>
Reach out to one of our trip specialists at 612-315-2894 or by filling out the short form below to start planning your next epic adventure.
Nos Vemos, Lisa
Lisa is the Media Manager at Knowmad Adventures, a company dedicated to creating unique, private and custom trips in South America. She studied abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina in 2012 and is continually planning her next adventure. Read Lisa’s biography and more about the Knowmad team.
