Top 5

  1. Explora, Torres del Paine
If even a photo can be as breathtaking as this one, imagine what it's like to actually be there! This extraordinary hotel, part of the elite Explora chain, occupies prime position in Chile's Torres del Paine National Park. The décor was designed in a harmonious, minimalist style in order that guests best enjoy the eye-popping views free from distraction no matter where they are in the hotel, including the bedrooms – request a cordillera room for sweeping views right across the Cuernos del Paine massif and Lake Pehoé. You can also get even closer to the action on an exceptional programme of excursions offered on an all-inclusive basis by the hotel (or just by jumping into the outdoor Jacuzzi!).

  2. Das Cataratas, Iguazú national park
The 275 individual cataracts that make up Iguazú Falls thunder over nearly three kilometres of jungle-backed clifftop and into a huge river demarcating the border between Brazil and Argentina. The unspoilt national parks on either side of the divide harbour just one hotel each, and while both offer extraordinary proximity to one of the world's greatest natural wonders as well as the privilege of access outside of park opening hours, Das Cataratas on the Brazilian side has to be our top choice. Just a few paces from the elegant hotel entrance you are confronted with a jaw-dropping vista as the falls sprawl out in front of you, mist rising up through the surrounding jungle. Several rooms offer their own private views of the falls, and you can climb up to the bell tower for an even better view of the incredible panorama from above. In fact so magnificent are the views here that they even inspired a Journey Latin America proposal!

  3. Sanctuary Lodge, Machu Picchu
The only hotel at Machu Picchu itself, Sanctuary Lodge is a unique base for visiting the famous Inca citadel. A stay here is distinguished by the chance to beat the crowds by exploring at the start and end of opening hours, when those without the benefit of your unparelleled access to the ruins will struggle to visit. From the hotel you can also enjoy the sight of the distinctive hump of Huayna Picchu (the mountain that overlooks the ruins) from several points, including from the deluxe bedrooms.

  4. Hotel Saratoga, Havana
Located in the heart of Havana, the Saratoga looks out over an enchanting Cuban cityscape. You can enjoy views of the iconic Capitolio building – the former seat of government – from several rooms as well as from the fabulous pool, the perfect place for a sundowner.

View-seekers continuing their journey through Cuba to Viñales should also head for Los Jazmines, a less sophisticated hotel but one that more than compensates with the stunning backdrop of mogotes (limestone hills) and tobacco plantations.

  5. Totoco Eco Lodge, Nicaragua
One of a select handful of hotels that have recently brought the accommodation options in unspoilt Nicaragua up to the top-end level of many other Central American countries, Totoco Eco Lodge leads the field when it comes to views. Its setting halfway up Maderas volcano would be stunning in itself, but add to that a twin volcano, Concepción, across the waters of the equally beautiful Lake Nicaragua, and you have something seriously special.