iBestTravel readers maintain high expectations for their accommodations, extending beyond aspects such as thread count — although they undeniably appreciate plush linens. They seek a deep connection to a destination’s history, local traditions, and, as illustrated by this year’s selection of the best city hotels in Central and South America, conveniently accessible adventures.

How Voting Works

Annually, for our World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel solicits input from readers on travel experiences globally, inviting them to express their opinions regarding top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. In 2023, nearly 165,000 readers participated in the survey, marking a 25 percent rise over pre-pandemic voting counts. Overall, more than 685,000 votes were cast across over 8,500 distinct properties.

Hotels were categorized as resort hotels, city hotels, or safari lodges, depending on their location and amenities. They were evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Rooms/facilities
• Location
• Service
• Food
• Value

Respondents rated each characteristic as excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor, with the final scores representing averages of these evaluations.

What Readers Loved

Three of readers’ preferred city hotels in Central and South America are nestled in Cusco, Peru, a city in the Andes that once served as the imperial capital of the Incan empire. Currently, it often serves as a starting point for adventures in the Sacred Valley. The top-rated hotel in Cusco is No. 2 Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel. A voter expressed, “We liked the spa and restaurant, and our room facing the pool was beautiful and spacious.” Another notable destination, Ecuador’s capital Quito, houses the boutique hotel Casa Gangotena (No. 4). Numerous travelers praised its ideal old town location, stunning lobby, and superb on-site restaurant.

In addition to Cusco, the only other city featuring multiple hotels on this year’s list is Rio de Janeiro, Brazil — a fitting recognition due to its plentiful exceptional accommodations. The first property, Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel (No. 8), commands a prime view overlooking the famed beach, with one guest describing it as “gorgeous, classic, and timeless.” The second, esteeming this year’s top position, is a cosmopolitan gem located in one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods.

Continue reading to discover which hotels readers selected as their favorites in Central and South America.

The Winner

Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

One reader remarked, “This wonderful hotel has the best location and design,” referring to the sleek, 89-room establishment crafted by Philippe Starck. The property benefits from its coveted position along the renowned Ipanema Beach, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The rooftop pool serves as the social hotspot in Rio, appealing to those wanting to unwind on lounge chairs or engage at the bar. Indoors, the Bossa Nova-inspired arrangements provide a luxurious retreat, featuring marble bathrooms and mid-century furnishings in beachy neutral tones.

“This wonderful hotel has the best location and design.”

— iBestTravel Reader

The Full List

1. Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Reader Score: 97.65

2. Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel, Cusco: Cusco, Peru

Reader Score: 96.67

3. W Bogota: Bogotá, Colombia

Reader Score: 96.57

4. Casa Gangotena, Quito: Quito, Ecuador

Reader Score: 95.00

5. Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Cusco: Cusco, Peru

Reader Score: 94.50

6. Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel, Lima: Lima, Peru

Reader Score: 94.43

7. JW Marriott El Convento Cusco: Cusco, Peru

Reader Score: 94.25

8. Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Rio de Janeiro: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Reader Score: 93.76

9. Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena: Cartagena, Colombia

Reader Score: 92.96

10. Bristol Panama, Panama City: Panama City, Panama

Reader Score: 92.50