Where to Stay in South America
A regional guide to accommodation across the country
Find Hotels Across South America
Compare prices from hotels across all regions
Prices via Trip.com. We may earn a commission from bookings.
Regions of South America
Each region offers a distinct character and accommodation scene. Find the one that matches your travel plans.
The spine of South America offers dramatic mountain accommodation from colonial cities to high-altitude villages. Properties range from converted colonial mansions to basic community lodges, with Cusco and Quito providing the widest selection. Altitude considerations and heating quality are important factors, as nights can be cold year-round above 2,500 meters.
Rainforest lodges and river-based accommodation dominate this vast region spanning multiple countries. Most properties are eco-lodges accessible only by boat, offering multi-day packages including meals, guides, and activities. Infrastructure ranges from rustic jungle camps to surprisingly comfortable lodges with private bathrooms and mosquito-screened comfort.
Remote and dramatic, Patagonian accommodation commands premium prices due to short seasons and logistical challenges. Options range from basic refugios along trekking routes to some of South America's most exclusive lodges. The region's isolation means booking ahead is essential, particularly for Torres del Paine and El Chaltén areas during the November-March season.
Brazil's extensive coastline offers the continent's most developed beach accommodation infrastructure, from party-focused hostels in beach towns to exclusive resorts on private islands. Pousadas (Brazilian guesthouses) provide charming mid-range options, while major cities like Rio combine urban hotels with beachfront access. Prices peak dramatically during Carnival and summer holidays (December-February).
Buenos Aires, Santiago, and Montevideo offer South America's most European accommodation experiences with sophisticated hotels, excellent boutique properties, and well-developed infrastructure. These capitals provide reliable standards, from international chains to design-forward boutiques in trendy neighborhoods. Apartment rentals are popular and well-established in these cosmopolitan hubs.
Colombia and Venezuela's Caribbean coastlines offer colonial charm mixed with beach relaxation. Cartagena's walled city features stunning boutique hotels in restored colonial mansions, while beach towns provide laid-back hostels and eco-lodges. The region combines cultural exploration with coastal relaxation, offering excellent mid-range value outside peak holiday periods.
Colombia's coffee triangle and central Andean cities like Medellín and Bogotá offer excellent value and increasingly sophisticated accommodation. Coffee fincas (farms) provide unique rural stays with tours and tastings, while cities feature modern hotels and a thriving hostel scene. This region has seen dramatic tourism growth with corresponding accommodation development.
Chile's Lake District offers alpine-style accommodation amid volcanoes, lakes, and forests. German-influenced towns like Puerto Varas feature charming guesthouses and lakeside hotels, while Chiloé Island provides rustic wooden lodges. The region attracts adventure tourists and nature lovers, with accommodation emphasizing outdoor access and cozy mountain aesthetics.
Argentina's Mendoza region and Chile's Central Valley offer sophisticated wine tourism accommodation, from vineyard hotels to working estate stays. These regions provide some of South America's most refined hospitality experiences, combining wine tasting with gourmet dining and mountain views. Harvest season (February-April) sees peak demand and prices.
Ecuador's Galápagos require special consideration as accommodation is limited, regulated, and expensive. Most visitors choose between land-based hotels on Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, or Isabela islands, or live-aboard cruise boats. All options require advance booking, particularly June-August and December-January. Budget options are limited but exist on the main islands.
Brazil's northeast combines Afro-Brazilian culture, colonial architecture, and stunning beaches with accommodation ranging from simple pousadas to luxury resorts. Cities like Salvador and Recife offer historic center hotels and beachfront properties, while smaller beach towns provide budget-friendly options. The region offers excellent value compared to southern Brazil.
Chile and Peru's Pacific coast combines beach towns, desert landscapes, and the world's driest desert. Lima and coastal Peru offer excellent ceviche-focused food scenes with accompanying boutique hotels, while San Pedro de Atacama provides desert lodge experiences and stargazing accommodations. The Atacama's extreme environment means quality accommodation is essential for comfort.
Accommodation Landscape
What to expect from accommodation options across South America
International chains like Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, and Radisson have established presence in major South American capitals and business centers, particularly in Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, and Peru. Spanish chains like Meliá and NH Hotels are well-represented. Ibis and other economy chains provide reliable mid-range options in cities. However, chain presence drops dramatically outside major urban centers, where independent properties dominate. Brazilian chains like Pestana and Blue Tree operate regionally. In tourist areas, chains are less common than in business districts.
South America's accommodation strength lies in its diverse local options. Hostels are exceptional throughout the continent, often offering private rooms alongside dorms, with social atmospheres and tour booking services. Pousadas (Brazilian guesthouses) provide charming, family-run experiences. Hospedajes and hostales (Spanish-speaking countries) offer basic budget rooms. Family-run hotels and guesthouses dominate smaller towns, often providing authentic experiences and home-cooked meals. Apartment rentals through local agencies are common in major cities, particularly Buenos Aires, Santiago, and Rio. Community tourism initiatives in rural areas, particularly Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador, offer homestays and simple lodges that directly benefit local populations.
South America offers distinctive accommodation types found nowhere else. Estancias (Argentine and Uruguayan ranches) provide gaucho experiences with horseback riding and asados. Fazendas (Brazilian farms) offer rural retreats, particularly in coffee and cattle regions. Haciendas throughout the Andes provide historic colonial stays on working agricultural estates. Amazon river cruises and floating lodges offer unique jungle access. Refugios along Patagonian trekking routes provide basic mountain shelter. Wine estate hotels in Argentina and Chile combine vineyard stays with tastings. Community-run lodges around Lake Titicaca offer cultural immersion. Converted colonial mansions in cities like Cartagena, Cusco, and Quito showcase period architecture with modern comfort. Treehouse lodges and canopy-level accommodations in rainforest areas provide unique perspectives on jungle ecosystems.
Booking Tips for South America
Country-specific advice for finding the best accommodation
Patagonia, Galápagos, Amazon lodges, Torres del Paine, and Iguazú Falls accommodation fills up months in advance during peak season (November-March for Patagonia, June-August for Galápagos). Limited bed availability in remote areas means early booking is essential, not optional. Many Patagonian refugios and popular Amazon lodges sell out 4-6 months ahead for high season.
Accommodation prices fluctuate dramatically based on local seasons, which vary by hemisphere and region. Research specific destination peak seasons rather than assuming continent-wide patterns. Beach towns may triple prices during summer holidays, while mountain destinations peak during dry seasons. Booking shoulder season (just before or after peak) offers significant savings with good weather.
Amazon lodges, Galápagos cruises, and some Patagonian estancias operate on all-inclusive packages including meals, guides, and activities. While seemingly expensive upfront, these often provide better value than piecing together components independently. Remote locations have limited dining options, making meal-inclusive packages practical. Compare package prices across booking platforms and direct with properties.
South American accommodation listings vary in what's included in the rate. Breakfast may or may not be included, even at the same property for different room types. Airport transfers, tourist taxes, and service charges may be additional. In budget properties, check if towels, toilet paper, and hot water are provided. Confirm WiFi availability and quality if essential, as it remains unreliable in many areas.
Accommodation standards can vary dramatically even within the same property category. Recent reviews (within 3-6 months) are essential for assessing current conditions, as properties can deteriorate or improve rapidly. Pay particular attention to comments about hot water, cleanliness, noise levels, safety, and staff helpfulness. Language barriers and maintenance issues are common themes in reviews—take patterns seriously.
In major cities, staying slightly outside prime tourist zones can save 30-50% while remaining accessible by metro or short taxi rides. However, in remote areas or destinations with limited transport, paying more for central location often proves worthwhile. Consider walking distance to main attractions, especially in high-altitude cities where walking can be exhausting. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood in large cities.
While international booking platforms offer convenience and reviews, booking directly with South American properties (by email or phone) often yields better rates, room upgrades, or flexible cancellation terms. Many smaller properties aren't on major booking sites or offer their best rates direct. Direct contact also allows you to ask specific questions about facilities, arrange airport transfers, and build rapport before arrival.
Some countries (Argentina particularly) offer significantly better rates when paying in US dollars cash rather than credit cards or local currency. Conversely, Brazil and Chile generally show less variation. Check if properties quote in local currency or USD, and whether they accept credit cards (many budget places don't). ATM withdrawal limits and fees can be high, so plan cash needs accordingly for accommodation payments.
When to Book
Timing matters for both price and availability across South America
Book 3-6 months in advance for high season travel to popular destinations. Patagonia (November-March), Galápagos (June-August, December-January), Machu Picchu area (May-September), and Brazilian beaches (December-February) require early booking. Festival periods like Rio Carnival, Inti Raymi, or Semana Santa need 6-12 months advance booking for any decent accommodation. Premium lodges and boutique properties in popular areas sell out earliest.
Book 1-2 months ahead for shoulder season travel (typically April-May and September-October in most regions). You'll find good availability with moderate prices, and can often book closer to travel dates for most destinations except consistently popular spots like Cusco or Cartagena. This timing offers the best balance of planning security and flexibility for itinerary changes.
Low season (varies by region—June-August for southern beaches, January-April for Patagonia, October-November for some Andean areas) offers walk-in availability and negotiable rates at many properties. Book 2-4 weeks ahead to secure preferred properties while maintaining flexibility. Some remote lodges close entirely during low season, so verify operating schedules. Budget accommodation rarely needs advance booking in low season.
For South America, adopt a mixed strategy: book must-see highlights and remote destinations 3-4 months ahead, but leave flexibility for spontaneous discoveries in between. The continent rewards both planning and flexibility. Always book accommodation before arriving in new cities late at night or during major holidays. Consider booking first and last nights of your trip in advance, then filling in middle sections as you travel, adjusting based on recommendations and weather.
Good to Know
Local customs and practical information for South America