Top City Hotels in Central and South America: iBestTravel’s World’s Best Awards

This year’s World’s Best Awards survey closed on March 2, just before widespread stay-at-home orders were implemented due to COVID-19. The results reflect our readers’ experiences before the pandemic, but we hope that this year’s honorees will inspire your trips to come — whenever they may be.

Beyond the beauty of the landscape and rich flora and fauna, the allure of visiting Central and South America lies in experiencing the regions’ rich culture, history, and architecture. In urban centers, those facets are often reflected in the hotels. Many of the best hotels in Central and South America embody a deep sense of place, not to mention the elegance and top-notch service iBestTravel readers expect.

Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities.

South America swept the category again, but a couple of countries are especially well represented this year. In Peru, the draw of Cuzco is still strong: the historic colonial city high in the Andes has four hotels on the list, including last year’s winner, Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel, which is No. 3 in 2020. The property, set in a 500-year-old mansion, maintains an impressive collection of art, including pieces from the Inca and pre-Inca eras. Moreover, guests can enjoy local music at the hotel’s bar after a day of exploring.

Other historic properties in Cuzco also captured travelers’ hearts — notably, two Belmond hotels built in former religious structures. One guest expressed, “I could have stayed in my suite forever,” reflecting on their experience at No. 9 Belmond Palacio Nazarenas. While No. 4 Belmond Hotel Monasterio, formerly a home for priests, now serves as a sumptuous retreat celebrated for its gardens.

Colombia has made a strong impression on the list, featuring three hotels: two in Cartagena and one in Bogotá. iBestTravel readers particularly admired the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena, at No. 5, described as a “heritage gem” in the heart of Old Cartagena. Hotel Casa San Agustin, at No. 7, received accolades for its “impeccable” service, while the Four Seasons Bogotá, ranked No. 10, was praised for its traditional roots and modern features that honor its history.

This year’s top honor goes to Casa Gangotena, the sole Ecuadoran hotel on the list, ranked No. 1. Read on to learn why Casa Gangotena stands out — and which other hotels joined this year’s elite list of the best city hotels in Central and South America.

1. Casa Gangotena, Quito, Ecuador

Score: 94.56

More information: casagangotena.com

After placing fifth last year, this boutique property housed in a restored mansion with Art Deco and Art Nouveau influences leapt to the top. Casa Gangotena provides a beautiful hotel experience with exceptional service, located in the heart of Quito’s picturesque Old Town. The city, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts a rich tapestry of architecture blending indigenous and European styles. Guests can unwind with stunning views of the Plaza San Francisco from the hotel’s rooftop bar.