7 Best Hotels in The Southern Andes and Lake Titicaca, Peru

Although the exterior of this upscale resort and spa along the Colca River feels more condo than boutique, the rooms are modern and airy, the amenities are superb, the restaurant and bar are among the best in the area, the get-away-from-it-all location is stunning, and it features authentic Peruvian hospitality and culture. All bathrooms are huge and have tubs; suites and chalets have Jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces (it can get cold here at night). The grounds have a variety of landscaping features, from waterfalls and pools to terraced gardens and a water mill, and the setting offers plentiful flora and fauna. The lovely full-service spa includes a heated pool, sauna, steam, skilled massage therapists, and more. The restaurant and bar, which serves Novo Andino dishes and wood-fired pizzas, is superior to other dining options in the area. 

At the most luxurious property in the Colca area, with service and amenities to match, each thatched bungalow has its own outdoor terrace with a private heated pool, heated smooth-stone floors, and deep bathtubs beneath skylights for after-dark soaking and stargazing (though you can get an even better view from the outdoor showers). Rooms are bright and comfortable, with leather armchairs and wrought-iron beds piled with elegant bedding and harkening to days gone by. You can join cooking and pisco-sour-making classes, baby-alpaca feedings, and familiarization tours of the vegetable garden, and—for an additional fee—activities such as fly-fishing, horseback riding, hiking, and spa treatments can be arranged. The Quiriña restaurant serves creative Peruvian fusion dishes using vegetables from the garden.

An ecological paradise for those who can afford it, this exclusive hotel is on Isla Suasi, a private island on a remote end of Lake Titicaca (a 5½-hour boat ride from Puno, including a stop at Uruos). The remote location and absence of TVs in the rooms does not mean you will be bored: activity options include hiking among wild llamas, canoeing, studying astronomy, learning Andean spirituality, taking in flower-filled terraces, learning about ecosystems, and relaxing with a massage. Rooms are comfortable, and most have balconies. All meals are provided in the gourmet restaurant (or barbecue pit), and for an extra-special treat, there's a private cottage that comes with its own butler.

Part of the luxe Relais & Châteaux brand, this is the best hotel on the lake, period—a stylish all-inclusive ecotourism resort with contemporary flair and an off-the-beaten-path location. Overlooking the lake next to the Chucuito Peninsula, it's about a 40-minute car ride from Puno. The brick exterior resembles a lake house rather than a boutique hotel, but the interior is classic Euro-contemporary, with hints of Peruvian color, making this a truly unique place. All rooms have high-quality furnishings and linens, plasma TVs, heated floors, and lake views. Activities include trips to the islands and remote weaving communities, bird-watching, kayaking, and massage services. Room service is available 24 hours.

One of the most complete resorts in Colca, with its own hot springs and solar heating, this hotel is at the same time relaxing and family friendly, with an understated look thanks to its adobe and clay walls and thatched roof, and a natural location on a bend of the river filled with quinoa fields and grassy meadows. There's plenty to do, including canyon hikes, biking, horseback riding, and visits to the property's own Rancho Alpaca. Kids will love the nonstop on-site activities. Rooms are spacious and well appointed, decorated in a minimal, country-home style with a Peruvian flair. Adobe suites come with large bathrooms, and the on-site restaurant serves flavorsome meals that rely on zesty local trout and alpaca meats. Above all, this hotel has the best hot springs around, located right next to the river. Relax in the therapeutic waters, and then indulge in one of the on-site spa's therapies, which include an aromatic steam bath and a thermal Jacuzzi set right above the crashing Colca River.

Located about five minutes from Chivay and set in a stunning landscape hugged by mountains and lush greenery alongside a rushing river—the sound will lull you to sleep at night—this peaceful hotel allows you to take refuge from the world without compromising comfort. Private thermal baths are right on the premises. Rooms have a modern-rustic decor that fits in perfectly with the surroundings, which can be enjoyed from each room's small terrace. The on-site restaurant assures there's no need to leave this little bit of paradise, unless you want to head out for a tour or local activities. Plan on spending at least a couple of nights here, because you won't want to leave.

Although it may look a little institutional from the outside, inside this low-rise hotel, which functions more like a resort, is the most luxurious stay close to the city—just 5 km (3 miles) away on Isla Esteves, an island in Lake Titicaca that's connected to the mainland by a causeway. Rooms and bathrooms are all comfortable, large, clean, and modern, with stunning views of the lake, especially on the sunrise side. You can get a taxi into town, but the hotel also has an upscale international restaurant and a cozy bar that has beautiful night views, good pisco sours, and a fireplace.