4 Latin American getaways to start 2026

Minor Hotels highlights Lima, Cancún, Buenos Aires and Medellín as ideal Latin American destinations for early 2026 holidays.

As travelers plan their early-year breaks, Minor Hotels, a global hospitality group with over 640 hotels in 59 countries, presents four standout destinations in Latin America to kick off 2026. The selection mixes summer cities such as Lima and Buenos Aires with milder or warmer-climate options like Cancún and Medellín, all with strong cultural scenes, memorable gastronomy and experiences tailored to different travel styles.

Lima: city of kings and creativity

In Lima, early-year holidays unfold between the Pacific Ocean and a vibrant cultural scene. Districts such as Miraflores and Barranco invite visitors to bike or walk along the Malecón, take in sweeping ocean views, explore art galleries and independent design shops, and discover cafés, bars and restaurants that showcase the city’s creative spirit.

World-famous Peruvian cuisine is one of the main highlights, alongside walks through historic neighborhoods filled with murals, distinctive architecture and buzzing nightlife. This combination turns Lima into one of the most complete destinations in Latin America for those seeking culture, flavors and scenery to begin 2026.

To enhance this urban experience, nhow Lima stands out as an ideal base for discovering the capital. Set in the heart of Miraflores, the hotel is known for its contemporary design, signature food and beverage concepts and dynamic atmosphere, designed for travelers who want to connect with the city from a modern perspective.

With characterful spaces, distinctive rooms and a curated agenda of experiences that echoes Lima’s pulsating culture, nhow Lima offers a stay that goes beyond rest and becomes part of the journey itself.

Cancún: turquoise waters and vibrant energy

Cancún remains one of the most sought-after destinations in Latin America for the start of the year, and it is much more than sun and sand. The city combines relaxation, design and a close connection with nature, with turquoise beaches, author-driven gastronomy, lively nightlife, wellness experiences and cultural getaways to nearby islands and Mayan archaeological sites.

January stands out as one of the best months to visit, with warm and stable weather that is perfect for outdoor activities and water sports. Between snorkeling, boat trips and visits to historic sites, travelers can enjoy a full program right at the beginning of 2026.

Within this setting, Avani Cancún offers a fresh and contemporary option for those seeking an urban yet sophisticated stay. Located in a dynamic area with easy access to beaches, restaurants and entertainment, the hotel features modern design, social spaces created to connect people and comfortable rooms.

Its food, beverage and leisure concepts complete a stay that reflects new travel trends: flexible, vibrant and closely linked to the surroundings, reinforcing Cancún’s profile as a well-rounded early-year destination.

Buenos Aires: captivating summer modernity

In summer, Buenos Aires adopts a different rhythm and confirms its status as one of the most engaging urban destinations in Latin America to start 2026. With lighter traffic, quicker commutes and fewer lines, visitors can rediscover neighborhoods, parks and cultural icons at a more relaxed pace.

From NH Collection Lancaster, guests can walk through the historic downtown area, enjoy sunset strolls along Puerto Madero, explore nearby museums and art galleries, or dive into the city’s diverse culinary and cultural scene, which remains lively throughout the summer.

A landmark in the local hotel scene, NH Collection Lancaster blends classic elegance with contemporary comfort, offering a calm haven in the heart of Buenos Aires. Its recent renovation enhances comfort, refreshes common areas and invites guests to experience the city with style, practicality and convenience.

Medellín: Colombia’s eternal spring

Medellín is consolidating its position as one of the most attractive destinations in Latin America, bringing together culture, nature, gastronomy and entertainment in a single trip. Known as the city of eternal spring, it offers pleasant weather at the beginning of the year, ideal for exploring its neighborhoods and green areas.

The city invites visitors to discover landmarks such as Comuna 13, Parque Explora, the Botanical Garden and Pueblito Paisa, as well as enjoy nightlife in districts like Provenza. Short getaways to Guatapé and the impressive El Peñol rock formation add to the experience across the department of Antioquia.

To match this diversity, NH Collection Medellín Royal stands out as an ideal accommodation choice, combining a strategic location with a strong focus on comfort. The hotel offers elegant, quiet rooms, wellness services such as spa and jacuzzi, a pet-friendly policy and a carefully designed gastronomic offering.

Highlights include a generous breakfast buffet, an international restaurant with local touches and the Pegasus bar, where live music and a sophisticated atmosphere complete the early-year experience in Medellín.