Unusual Places to Stay in Latin America

Where you sleep can shape a whole trip. Across Latin America, a handful of stays go well beyond the ordinary – from a transparent pod strung high above a valley to a vintage camper parked on the world’s largest salt flat. These are a few of the region’s most memorable places to spend the night.

A tented camp among Mayan ruins, Guatemala

Deep in the Guatemalan jungle, within the archaeological site of Uaxactun, it is possible to sleep under canvas at a small tented camp. Uaxactun lies roughly 12 miles north of Tikal and is one of the oldest known complete Mayan complexes, with well-preserved temples. The site is still home to local communities who make a living collecting gum from the surrounding forest, so a stay here offers a rare chance to learn about jungle life at first hand – and to combine it with a visit to Tikal.

Airstream campers on the Bolivian salt flats

For a different way to see Salar de Uyuni, consider touring by Airstream camper. Each unit sleeps up to two guests, comes fully equipped, and includes a personal chauffeur-guide. The campers hitch easily to a 4WD for off-road excursions, giving you more time to explore the salt flats and the surrounding area. Days can be spent cycling across wide open stretches and visiting local communities, with clear night skies for stargazing and remote terrain to trek.

SkyLodge pods, Peru

In Peru’s Sacred Valley, a transparent pod suite hangs 400 metres above the valley floor. The walls are completely clear, so the views run a full 360 degrees. It is a striking spot for breakfast at sunrise before zip-lining back down through the valley to solid ground. The surrounding area suits more active travellers too, with zip lining, white-water rafting and paragliding all on offer, along with the chance to seek out the finest views over Machu Picchu.