Image courtesy of Explora Torres Del Paine
Part of what makes a great travel advisor is an unquenchable curiosity about our world and its hidden gems. And attending conferences is one way to discover new destinations, often connecting with new properties and experiences.
Fora advisors Dahlia Swerdloff and Gaya Vinay recently returned from the Remote Latin America conference, held in Puyehue, Chile.
“I connected with fantastic suppliers from Central and South America, many new to me,” Fora Advisor Dahlia Swerdloff said. “The warm, friendly culture and collaboration among properties stood out, along with the strong presence of Relais & Chateaux.”
Here are some of the hot topics from the conference and what they learned about a variety of spots in Central and South America, plus some new openings for 2025.
Family-friendly South America
Image courtesy of Txai Resort Itacaré
Txai Resort Itacaré: Brazil
“Villas with private chefs and pools are available, accommodating up to eight people,” said Fora Advisor Gaya Vinay. “The beach is always private due to its isolated location, and a heliport is available on the property. Guests can enjoy nature-based activities, including a walk to four famous beaches. Average stays are around five nights, with special offers between April and October.”
Tierra Atacama: Chile
Undergoing a renovation to be completed in 2024, Dahlia noted Tierra Atacama has expanded to include “24 rooms, including two apartments that each have three bedrooms, two bathrooms and private pools. Three new suites feature double size rooms, private pools and a private driver-guide for the entirety of the stay.”
Wellness retreats
Image courtesy of Río Perdido
Rio Perdido: Costa Rica
“Over 20 miles of private trails for running, hiking and mountain biking are on this property,” sail Dahlia, who noted a new spa and yoga studio are opening in 2025.
“One hour from Liberia airport, this is easy for a short stay in Costa Rica if you only have time for one property,” said Dahlia, who recommends this property for active adults.
Willka T'ika: Peru
“Located in the Sacred Valley in Peru, this wellness retreat is about sustainability and giving back to the community,” said Dahlia. “They host yoga retreats, and are able to do 2 groups of up to 25 at the same time. The resort has 35 rooms, spread out enough that 2 groups can be together or separate … They focus on supporting the community by serving farm-to-table food, warm service from local Quechua staff and guides, and a children's fund that supports the local mountain school. There are many activities on and off property including a healing wellness spa.”
Adventure lodges
Image courtesy of Awasi Atacama
Awasi: Chile and Argentina
“Awasi has three hotels in Atacama, Patagonia, and Iguazú (on the Argentine side),” said Gaya. “The newest property, in Iguazú, is built in the jungle and features large villas, including one with two bedrooms. Iguazú Falls excursions include visits to both the Argentine and Brazilian sides, with queue-skipping privileges. They also include airport pick-ups from both the Brazilian and Argentine sides.”
Explora: Chile, Argentina, Peru and Bolivia
“Explora offers all-inclusive stays with 30–45 activities per lodge,” said Gaya. “They have their own school of guides, who are well-trained. Explora operates three lodges in Patagonia (Chile and Argentina), the Atacama Desert, the Sacred Valley in Peru, Easter Island, and Bolivia. They offer expeditions that combine stays in rustic locations with their lodges, including flight, boat, and walking journeys. A highlight is the Salkantay trek in Peru, a new Inca Trail no other company is permitted to offer.”
Conservation-minded travel
Image courtesy of Sacha Lodge
Sacha Lodge: Ecuador
“This lodge of 26 rooms is set amongst a 5000 acre private reserve,” Dahlia said. “Once off your flight, the journey to Sacha Lodge begins on a canoe ride that takes you down the Napo river, and then a short hike to another smaller canoe where you head across the Pilchecocha lake. Your luggage will meet you there. Alternatively, you can helicopter in.”
“There are multiple activities daily including a Canopy Crane, Canopy Walkway, the Butterfly house and the Lake pool. All excursions are for up to six people, but can also be arranged as private.”
Ibiti Projeto: Brazil
“Located 3.5 hours from Rio, this is more than a hotel,” said Dahlia. “Its focus is a socio-environmental project that involves flora and fauna, regeneration and local cultural appreciation. There are three very different areas in which you can stay over the 6,000-hectare property. The property is involved in giving back to multiple organizations including education and animal protection.”
Amazon cruises
Image courtesy of Delfin Amazon Cruises
Anakonda Amazon Cruises: Ecuador
“Anakonda collaborates with 15 communities along the river to engage in authentic conservation work,” said Gaya. “The ships are family-friendly, accommodating 36 guests in 18 suites ... They offer three-, four- and seven-night cruises, with highlights like pink river dolphin conservation available on 4-night itineraries and longer. Guests can combine the cruise with a Galápagos visit.”
Delfin Amazon Cruises: Peru
Owned by a husband-and-wife team, Delfin has small to medium vessels that offer birdwatching, paddleboarding, kayaking and community visits.
“Delfin has the largest fleet of the smallest vessels, offering highly curated experiences,” Gaya said. “Owners are often on board (two to three times per month). Delfin was the first cruise company to join Relais & Châteaux … Access is via a flight from Lima to Iquitos, followed by a 30-minute drive.”
For insider tips on planning your Latin America trip, reach out to Gaya or Dahlia.
