5. Mashpi Lodge, Ecuador
If your idea of heaven is being at one with nature, this one’s for you. At one of the most unique hotels in the world, peeking through the cloud forests of biodiversity hotspot, Ecuadorian Chocó, lies the breathtaking Mashpi Lodge, where you might catch sight of a “howler monkey while soaking in the indoor jacuzzi or wake up to the flitting of a velvet-purple coronet just outside your room,” according to National Geographic.
Mashpi leads rainforest preservation projects to protect the diverse and unique ecosystems that thrive here and offer guests an immersive experience. At the heart of their reservation efforts is Mashpi Reserve – dedicated to research, education, ecotourism, and community support of the local biodiversity – something they encourage their guests to get involved with during their stay.
For the wildlife enthusiast, Mashpi is the ultimate nature retreat deep in the wilderness where you explore and learn about the lush wildlife and tropical inhabitants by day and return to unwind in an understated, stylish haven at night. A magnificent modern creation of panoramic floor-to-ceiling glass windows nestled among abundant greenery and steaming clouds enables guests to really feel like they’re living and breathing the heart of the rainforest. The structure itself was carefully planned and built to prevent further damage to the trees respecting the natural space it occupies. Mashpi says, “The magic here is palpable and its raw, untouched essence is so thick you can always taste it.”