Mi Pueblo Samary Boutique Hotel | Courtesy of Hotel Mi Pueblo Samary
Bolivia may not be the world’s premier luxury travel destination, mostly due to an undeveloped tourism industry which is struggling to find its feet. Nonetheless, a number of swanky hotels have begun to pop up in recent years to provide well-heeled intrepid travelers with a sophisticated place to stay. Culture Trip has compiled a list of the most opulent digs from all corners of the country.
Since opening its doors in 2016, Atix has quickly established itself as a major player in Bolivia’s luxury travel scene. Boasting an eccentric modern facade and a plethora of eclectic artwork, this quirky five-star hotel offers unbridled opulence while paying homage to the country’s distinct cultural heritage. Guests can indulge in a fine-dining in-house restaurant, sip on cocktails in their trendy top-floor cocktail bar, or take a take a dip in their stylish indoor pool.
Sucre has an abundance of boutique colonial hotels, yet the unusual village design of Pueblo Samary ensures it stands out from the rest. Each room of this quirky themed hotel represents a residence, while its leafy central patio depicts a plaza, and the local tavern serves up fantastic food and drink. Attentive service and attractive original decor add to the appeal.
Similar to El Pueblo Samary, this stunning Samaipata lodging recreates a unique small-town vibe. It’s situated on a pristine farmland lot, meaning there is plenty of space to fit in the various village buildings. Don’t miss the local restaurant at this town-within-a-town, which offers the best fine-dining in all of Samaipata.
Gran Hotel Cochabamba has the market covered for large and fancy lodgings, boasting an exuberant blend of modern and traditional decor. Each of its 120 rooms overlooks magnificent gardens and pools, while a stately indoor conference center is popular for weddings and meetings. Be sure to wake up in time for the free buffet breakfast which is about as good as you’ll get anywhere in town.
Big and boisterous, Los Tajibos brings 5-star decadence right into the heart of Santa Cruz. Well-heeled travelers love its convenient location among the city’s best nightspots, not to mention the full-service spa and multiple outdoor pools. Each of its 208 rooms features icy cold air con and chic modern decor, while the three upmarket onsite restaurants are a hit with locals and guests alike.
A mashup of luxury with the downright bizarre, El Palacio de Sal is the first and finest hotel to be made entirely out of salt. Large sections of the luxuriant 30 room complex must be rebuilt due to environmental degradation each year, but that doesn’t stop the determined owners from providing their guests with the latest in modern amenities. Among the salty facilities are a fully-stocked bar, a sauna and spa, a swimming pool, and even an 18 hole golf course.
Overlooking the shimmering waters of Titicaca, Hotel Rosario is the most beautiful hotel on the Bolivian side of the lake. The elegant three-story edifice has been constructed in a unique colonial style, of which each of the 28 rooms is outfitted with colorful indigenous artwork and feature unrivaled lake views. A leafy multi-level patio is an excellent spot for a sunset cocktail, while the in-house restaurant serves up mouthwatering fresh caught trout.
