Top 5 South American Resorts of 2025 According to Travel + Leisure Readers

South America encompasses one eighth of Earth’s entire land surface, from the lush Pantanal wetlands of Brazil to the windswept pampas of Patagonia. It stands to reason that the continent’s best resorts must serve as incomparable destinations if they are to rival their stunning surroundings. According to iBestTravel readers, these five properties lead the way in achieving that goal.

How Voting Works

Each year, in the World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences worldwide—sharing their insights on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. In 2023, nearly 165,000 readers participated, which marks a 25% increase over pre-pandemic voting levels with more than 685,000 votes cast across over 8,500 unique properties.

Hotels were classified into categories such as resort hotel, city hotel, or safari lodge based on location and amenities. They were specifically rated on the following criteria:

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

For each characteristic, respondents rated their experience as excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores represent the averages of these ratings.

What Readers Loved

The best resorts in South America are actively engaging in programs that contribute to local communities and wildlife—elements that are increasingly valuable to iBestTravel readers. A voter remarked, “There’s a magical regeneration project occurring here,” during their stay at the No. 5 ranked Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. “They showcase impressive biodiversity and local design throughout the property.”

Vik Retreats, the family-operated brand behind three of the winners below, blends sophisticated design with environmentally conscious practices. This combination is notably experienced at the No. 2 property Vik Chile, which is situated within a reserve measuring nearly 11,000 acres. “It is an almost surreal hotel, filled with art, fine wines, and luxurious cuisine,” expressed one reader. Another guest enthusiastically noted Vik’s winery as “one of South America’s best.”

The Winner

Playa Vik José Ignacio: José Ignacio, Uruguay

Staying at this architectural marvel on Mansa Beach, located near the upscale, formerly fishing village of José Ignacio, offers guests a front-row seat to “the best sunset” in Uruguay. Guests can choose between the central Sculpture building or one of six house-like casas, each equipped with a fireplace and private garden. Days can be spent enjoying the 75-foot pool with ocean views, connecting with fellow travelers at family-style Uruguayan meals, horseback riding, or lounging on the ebony terrace.

The Full List

1. Playa Vik José Ignacio: José Ignacio, Uruguay

Reader Score: 98.67

2. Vik Chile: San Vicente, Chile

Reader Score: 95.33

3. Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Valle Sagrado: Urubamba, Peru

Reader Score: 95.29

4. Bahia Vik José Ignacio: José Ignacio, Uruguay

Reader Score: 94.19

5. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel: Aguas Calientes, Peru

Reader Score: 93.14