Hotels Taking Steps Towards Sustainability in South America

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Hotel in Machupicchu,

Peru

8.8

Excellent

From $291

$

Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

Part of the world's first climate-positive hotel group, this hotel implements extensive eco-friendly initiatives including biodiesel, plastic compacting, and organic waste processing plants on-site. It is actively involved in reforestation efforts and sustainable farming, holding multiple sustainability certifications.

Tambopata Research Center

Lodge in Tambopata,

Peru

9.4

Excellent

From $592

$

Lodge Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

Tambopata Research Center has won South America's Leading Green Hotel award multiple times, recognizing its exemplary environmental practices and commitment to sustainability. Located within the Tambopata National Reserve, it actively works to minimize its ecological footprint and promotes conservation through science and ecotourism.

Questionnaire

Certifications:

TripAdvisor GreenLeaders

Travelife

Do you utilise any renewable energy sources to produce energy on the hotel/accommodation premises?

Solar radiation

What makes your hotel/accommodation eco-friendly?

Green roof

Building materials from sustainable resources

Written environmental policy statement in place

The structure maximizes air flow to reduce the need for air-conditioning

The structure maximizes natural light to reduce the need for lighting and heating

Engaged in eco-friendly initiatives (i.e. reforestation, wildlife conservation)

Use of non-toxic cleaning products

Serving organic food at the restaurant

LED lighting throughout the premises

Employees are trained to follow environmental policies

Carbon footprint is measured by recognised CO2 measurement tool

Wastewater is reused after treatment

Signs in the rooms informing guests that towels will only be changed upon request

Waste is separated into at least 3 categories

Recycling bins in guest rooms

No disposable (single use) cups/glasses, plates and cutlery

Organic waste is composted

Most of the ingredients used to prepare meals are locally produced

A vegetarian alternative menu is proposed in the restaurant

An energy audit is carried out at least once every five years

Is there anything that you would like to highlight, add or clarify?
At Rainforest Expeditions we design experiences that connect you with nature in its purest state at every moment of your stay. When you arrive at each of our ecolodges, you will leave a significant impact on the forest and its communities

Cannua Lodge

Hotel in Marinilla,

Colombia

9.7

Excellent

From $158

$

Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

Cannua Lodge is recognized as Colombia's first high-end sustainable ecolodge, uniquely constructed entirely of compressed earth bricks formed and sun-baked on-site, significantly reducing transportation emissions. Its earth-brick structure is energy-efficient, absorbing heat during the day and radiating it at night to minimize heating and cooling needs. The lodge utilizes rainwater exclusively for its operations and grows food using kitchen compost. It actively reforests for carbon negativity using permaculture methods and preserves 75% of its property as a protected forest, home to diverse biodiversity. Furniture and elements are crafted from reclaimed wood and materials sourced during construction, aligning with a no-waste policy. Cannua also educates the neighboring rural population on sustainable permaculture methods and provides fair wages and benefits for local employment.

Questionnaire

Do you utilise any renewable energy sources to produce energy on the hotel/accommodation premises?

Hydro

What makes your hotel/accommodation eco-friendly?

Building materials from sustainable resources

Written environmental policy statement in place

The structure maximizes natural light to reduce the need for lighting and heating

Engaged in eco-friendly initiatives (i.e. reforestation, wildlife conservation)

Rainwater collection and usage

Use of non-toxic cleaning products

Serving organic food at the restaurant

Environmental manager appointed

Toilets flush up to 6 litres per flush

Signs in the rooms informing guests that towels will only be changed upon request

Waste is separated into at least 3 categories

Recycling bins in guest rooms

Organic waste is composted

A vegetarian alternative menu is proposed in the restaurant

Is there anything that you would like to highlight, add or clarify?
We are designed under permaculture principles

Hotel Las Islas

Hotel in Baru,

Colombia

9.0

Excellent

From $315

$

Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

Hotel Las Islas is recognized as one of the best sustainable hotels in Colombia and is part of the Beyond Green network, promoting responsible tourism and ecosystem protection. Its sustainable practices include mangrove reforestation and marine species protection, with guests able to participate in coral planting and sea turtle observation. The bungalows are built with sustainable materials and strategically placed to minimize environmental impact, avoiding the felling of trees during construction. The hotel uses recycled and organic materials, such as certified wood and reused glass bottles for water. Its sustainability policy is aligned with the 2030 agenda, focusing on fauna and flora conservation, job creation, and support for the local Barú community, with over 90% of staff hired from the area and hammocks made by local artisans. It also grows organic produce on-site and supports local coral reef conservation projects.

El Albergue Ollantaytambo

Inn in Ollantaytambo,

Peru

9.2

Excellent

From $114

$

Inn Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

This family-owned boutique hotel is deeply committed to sustainability and community engagement. It features an on-site organic farm supplying its restaurant, uses solar power for water heating, LED lighting, and environmentally-friendly soaps. The hotel also works to minimize its environmental impact through careful use of water and energy, carbon emission management, waste management, and supports reforestation projects. They also offer filtered water in reusable glass bottles and use non-organic waste to produce eco bricks for construction.

Questionnaire

Certifications:

Tourcert

What makes your hotel/accommodation eco-friendly?

Building materials from sustainable resources

Written environmental policy statement in place

The structure maximizes natural light to reduce the need for lighting and heating

Engaged in eco-friendly initiatives (i.e. reforestation, wildlife conservation)

Use of non-toxic cleaning products

Serving organic food at the restaurant

LED lighting throughout the premises

Environmental manager appointed

Employees are trained to follow environmental policies

Carbon footprint is measured by recognised CO2 measurement tool

Bicycles provided to guests

Signs in the rooms informing guests that towels will only be changed upon request

Recycling bins in guest rooms

No disposable (single use) cups/glasses, plates and cutlery

Organic waste is composted

Zero-waste hotel/accommodation

Most of the ingredients used to prepare meals are locally produced

A vegetarian alternative menu is proposed in the restaurant

Is there anything that you would like to highlight, add or clarify?
We are the stewards of our own environmental program here in Ollantaytambo. Our organic farm holds our native tree nursery designed to produce 50,000 trees a year (to be planted on deforested mountainsides), the farm is also host to our alternative eco-oriented elementary school Kuska School.

Royal Palm Galapagos, Curio Collection Hotel by Hilton

Hotel in Bellavista,

7.4

Good

From $235

$

Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

This hotel adheres to Hilton's 'Travel with Purpose' ESG strategy and holds three third-party sustainability certifications. It features a water reduction system that reuses rainwater and recycles almost 90% of its residues. The hotel implements a Miconia and Scalesia Reforestation Program and a Plant-a-Tree Program. It also operates an on-site produce farm for its restaurants, sourcing island-specific ingredients, and integrates local textiles and hand-crafted furniture from local artisans.

Amérian Portal Del Iguazú Hotel

Hotel in Puerto Iguazu,

Argentina

8.6

Very Good

From $132

$

Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

This hotel demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability through multiple certifications, including Hoteles más Verdes Gold category and Rainforest Alliance. It incorporates bioenergy use, provides eco-friendly toiletries, and has recycling programs in place.

casArtero eco posada

Inn in San Rafael,

Argentina

9.8

Excellent

From $66

$

Inn Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

Operating on circular economy principles, this eco posada has banned plastic in bathrooms and breakfasts and is a signatory of the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative with targets to eliminate plastic packaging by 2025. It utilizes renewable energies, sustainable construction, and is certified by Hoteles más Verdes.

Questionnaire

Certifications:

Hoteles + Verdes (Argentina)

Do you utilise any renewable energy sources to produce energy on the hotel/accommodation premises?

Solar radiation

What makes your hotel/accommodation eco-friendly?

Building materials from sustainable resources

Written environmental policy statement in place

The structure maximizes air flow to reduce the need for air-conditioning

The structure maximizes natural light to reduce the need for lighting and heating

Windows that block heat/cold (i.e. triple-glazed windows)

Engaged in eco-friendly initiatives (i.e. reforestation, wildlife conservation)

Use of non-toxic cleaning products

LED lighting throughout the premises

Toilets flush up to 6 litres per flush

Signs in the rooms informing guests that towels will only be changed upon request

Waste is separated into at least 3 categories

No disposable (single use) cups/glasses, plates and cutlery

Organic waste is composted

Most of the ingredients used to prepare meals are locally produced

A vegetarian alternative menu is proposed in the restaurant

Los Cauquenes Resort + Spa + Experiences

Hotel in Ushuaia,

Argentina

9.4

Excellent

From $303

$

Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

Los Cauquenes Resort + Spa + Experiences is committed to preserving environmental resources and implementing eco-efficiency. They participate in a recycling program, use signage to raise environmental awareness, utilize motion sensors and low-voltage LED lighting, and optimize their climate control system with double-pane windows. The resort has a greenhouse for growing herbs and vegetables used in their restaurant and recycles organic waste. They have received HMV Certification (Hoteles más Verdes) and Environmental Management guidelines certification from the Ministry of Tourism of Argentina. They also encourage guests to use reusable bottles and avoid unnecessary printing.

Toca da Coruja

Hotel in Pipa,

Brazil

9.7

Excellent

From $206

$

Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

This hotel holds the Green Destinations Gold Seal certification, the first in Brazil to do so, and is a member of Roteiros de Charme, signifying a commitment to environmental preservation. It focuses on energy efficiency, has ionized pools, and promotes local culture and the preservation of the surrounding Atlantic Forest.

Glamping Lumbre

Lodge in Salento,

Colombia

9.0

Excellent

From $147

$

Lodge Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

Glamping Lumbre is a luxury ecohotel committed to sustainable tourism and environmental care, located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cocora Valley. It emphasizes direct contact with nature and a sustainable escape, providing rooms designed for immersion in the natural surroundings while maintaining luxury comforts. The hotel's menu is crafted with local ingredients and natural preparations by their kitchen team, promoting local sourcing and sustainable dining. Guests are encouraged to care for nature during their stay.

Questionnaire

Certifications:

TripAdvisor GreenLeaders

Do you utilise any renewable energy sources to produce energy on the hotel/accommodation premises?

Hydro

What makes your hotel/accommodation eco-friendly?

Building materials from sustainable resources

Written environmental policy statement in place

The structure maximizes air flow to reduce the need for air-conditioning

The structure maximizes natural light to reduce the need for lighting and heating

Windows that block heat/cold (i.e. triple-glazed windows)

Engaged in eco-friendly initiatives (i.e. reforestation, wildlife conservation)

Use of non-toxic cleaning products

Serving organic food at the restaurant

LED lighting throughout the premises

Environmental manager appointed

Employees are trained to follow environmental policies

Toilets flush up to 6 litres per flush

Wastewater is reused after treatment

Signs in the rooms informing guests that towels will only be changed upon request

Toilet paper made of non-chlorine bleached paper or awarded with an eco-label

Waste is separated into at least 3 categories

No disposable (single use) cups/glasses, plates and cutlery

Organic waste is composted

Automatic system or key card that turns off the light and electrical appliances when guests leave their room

Most of the ingredients used to prepare meals are locally produced

A vegetarian alternative menu is proposed in the restaurant

MadreTierra Patagonia

Hotel in El Calafate,

Argentina

8.9

Excellent

From $98

$

Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

With an explicit eco-friendly focus, this hotel incorporates natural and recycled materials in its design and construction. Its operations are designed with environmental and social responsibility in mind, and it is certified by the Hoteles más Verdes program.

Questionnaire

Certifications:

LEED Certification level: Platinum (80+ points earned)

TripAdvisor GreenLeaders

Do you utilise any renewable energy sources to produce energy on the hotel/accommodation premises?

Solar radiation

What makes your hotel/accommodation eco-friendly?

Building materials from sustainable resources

The structure maximizes air flow to reduce the need for air-conditioning

The structure maximizes natural light to reduce the need for lighting and heating

Windows that block heat/cold (i.e. triple-glazed windows)

Engaged in eco-friendly initiatives (i.e. reforestation, wildlife conservation)

Rainwater collection and usage

Use of non-toxic cleaning products

LED lighting throughout the premises

Environmental manager appointed

Employees are trained to follow environmental policies

Toilets flush up to 6 litres per flush

Signs in the rooms informing guests that towels will only be changed upon request

No disposable (single use) cups/glasses, plates and cutlery

Organic waste is composted

Most of the ingredients used to prepare meals are locally produced

A vegetarian alternative menu is proposed in the restaurant

An energy audit is carried out at least once every five years

Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Valle Sagrado

Resort in Urubamba,

Peru

9.3

Excellent

From $477

$

Resort Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

This hotel is the first in Peru to earn LEED certification, recognizing its commitment to sustainable site development, water efficiency, energy savings, material use, and indoor environmental quality. It has a water treatment plant to filter water and irrigate grounds and uses indoor climate monitoring and lighting control systems for energy efficiency. The hotel also supports local farming communities.

Iguazu Jungle Lodge

Lodge in Puerto Iguazu,

Argentina

9.2

Excellent

From $131

$

Lodge Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

Iguazu Jungle Lodge is an eco-friendly retreat with two third-party sustainability certifications: Hoteles más Verdes and Preferred by Nature. The lodge offsets its carbon footprint and invites guests to contribute to the reforestation of the Paraná rainforest by planting native trees on the hotel grounds. It also supports local communities by offering souvenirs handcrafted by aboriginal communities and sources local, seasonal products for its restaurant.

Chalten Suites Hotel

Hotel in El Chalten,

Argentina

8.7

Very Good

From $147

$

Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

Chalten Suites Hotel has a third-party sustainability certification from Hoteles más Verdes. It utilizes building materials from sustainable resources, has a written environmental policy, and maximizes natural light and airflow to reduce energy needs. The hotel also uses LED lighting throughout and is engaged in eco-friendly initiatives.

Questionnaire

Certifications:

Certified to GSTC-Recognized Standards

Hoteles + Verdes (Argentina)

What makes your hotel/accommodation eco-friendly?

Building materials from sustainable resources

Written environmental policy statement in place

The structure maximizes air flow to reduce the need for air-conditioning

The structure maximizes natural light to reduce the need for lighting and heating

Windows that block heat/cold (i.e. triple-glazed windows)

Engaged in eco-friendly initiatives (i.e. reforestation, wildlife conservation)

Rainwater collection and usage

Use of non-toxic cleaning products

LED lighting throughout the premises

Environmental manager appointed

Employees are trained to follow environmental policies

Toilets flush up to 6 litres per flush

Signs in the rooms informing guests that towels will only be changed upon request

Waste is separated into at least 3 categories

Recycling bins in guest rooms

No disposable (single use) cups/glasses, plates and cutlery

Organic waste is composted

Automatic system or key card that turns off the light and electrical appliances when guests leave their room

A vegetarian alternative menu is proposed in the restaurant

Amazon Planet

Resort in Tambopata,

Peru

7.8

Good

From $349

$

Resort Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

Located along the Madre de Dios River, this resort is committed to preserving the Amazon rainforest. It likely implements sustainable practices and offers guests opportunities to connect with nature.

Questionnaire

Certifications:

TripAdvisor GreenLeaders

Biosphere Responsible Tourism

Aliados por la Conservación SERNANP Peru

Do you utilise any renewable energy sources to produce energy on the hotel/accommodation premises?

Solar radiation

What makes your hotel/accommodation eco-friendly?

Written environmental policy statement in place

The structure maximizes air flow to reduce the need for air-conditioning

The structure maximizes natural light to reduce the need for lighting and heating

Engaged in eco-friendly initiatives (i.e. reforestation, wildlife conservation)

Serving organic food at the restaurant

LED lighting throughout the premises

Environmental manager appointed

Employees are trained to follow environmental policies

Toilets flush up to 6 litres per flush

Signs in the rooms informing guests that towels will only be changed upon request

Waste is separated into at least 3 categories

Recycling bins in guest rooms

No disposable (single use) cups/glasses, plates and cutlery

Organic waste is composted

Most of the ingredients used to prepare meals are locally produced

A vegetarian alternative menu is proposed in the restaurant

Is there anything that you would like to highlight, add or clarify?
We are located within a natural protected area living in harmony with nature and we protect 45 hectares of Amazon Rainforest land from logging hunting etc. We are part of the Taricaya Ecoreserve and support the wildlife restoration projects making our visitors direct contributors of rainforest conservation.

Monte La MaMa Ecolodge

Lodge in Viota,

Colombia

9.8

Excellent

From $56

$

Lodge Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

Monte La MaMa Ecolodge is an eco-friendly retreat dedicated to environmental preservation. The lodge is built with soft, natural materials to ensure comfort within the forest environment. It features a 1.5 km mountain trail in a cloud forest, ideal for birdwatching and connecting with nature. The on-site restaurant, 'El Gorgojo,' utilizes local vegetables sourced from their own gardens and those of neighboring farms, promoting local agriculture and fresh cuisine. The lodge also offers hiking activities, allowing guests to explore the natural surroundings.

Questionnaire

What makes your hotel/accommodation eco-friendly?

Building materials from sustainable resources

Written environmental policy statement in place

The structure maximizes air flow to reduce the need for air-conditioning

The structure maximizes natural light to reduce the need for lighting and heating

Engaged in eco-friendly initiatives (i.e. reforestation, wildlife conservation)

Rainwater collection and usage

Use of non-toxic cleaning products

Serving organic food at the restaurant

LED lighting throughout the premises

Environmental manager appointed

Employees are trained to follow environmental policies

Toilets flush up to 6 litres per flush

Wastewater is reused after treatment

Signs in the rooms informing guests that towels will only be changed upon request

Toilet paper made of non-chlorine bleached paper or awarded with an eco-label

Waste is separated into at least 3 categories

No disposable (single use) cups/glasses, plates and cutlery

Organic waste is composted

Zero-waste hotel/accommodation

Automatic system or key card that turns off the light and electrical appliances when guests leave their room

Air-conditioning and heating automatically switches off when windows are open

Most of the ingredients used to prepare meals are locally produced

A vegetarian alternative menu is proposed in the restaurant

Elementos Eco Lodge

Hotel in Pucon,

Chile

9.1

Excellent

From $87

$

Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

Elementos Eco Lodge is actively working to become a sustainable, innovative, and successful company with a commitment and respect for the environment and people. They are implementing a Sustainable Management System and following the Global Criteria of Sustainable Tourism. They prioritize local suppliers for items like bread, jam, cheese, eggs, milk, and hygiene products.

VOA Hotel Paraíso das Águas Bonito

Hotel in Bonito,

Brazil

8.4

Very Good

From $56

$

Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

Recognized as the first Zero Waste Hotel in Mato Grosso do Sul, demonstrating a strong commitment to waste reduction and management.
The hotel has received the Sustainable Travel seal from Booking and the Responsible Tourism seal, highlighting its dedication to environmentally conscious operations.

Posada Rural La Matilde

Hotel in San Javier,

Argentina

9.7

Excellent

From $270

$

Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

This rural inn combines comfort with a strong emphasis on nature and sustainability, being part of a dedicated sustainability program. The property spans 60 hectares, encompassing native forest, vineyards, an organic and biodynamic garden, and a mushroom greenhouse. Its restaurant, DeAdobe, highlights local and fresh ingredients, many sourced directly from their own garden.