| The designs were created by Denise Guislain, co-founder of the hotel group, former director of quality and design, and wife of founder José Koechlin von Stein. Driven by their shared vision of sustainable ecotourism in Peru, Inkaterra’s first hotel was built in the Amazon over 50 years ago. Until her passing in 2024, Guislain continued to shape the design of Inkaterra hotels with her eye, knowledge, and empathy. Her award-winning concepts combined historical and natural elements to create modern hotel architecture that is both aesthetically and ecologically compelling.
Denise Guislain continues to espouse an architectural philosophy that reconciles tradition and modernity. Her designs are based on a deep appreciation of local building methods, traditional craftsmanship, and natural materials. Every detail, from the layout of the rooms to the choice of materials, is carefully coordinated to harmonize with the environment while providing travelers with the highest level of comfort. By using regional raw materials such as wood, stone, and clay, she has minimized the environmental footprint of the hotels while creating authentic retreats. Her goal: architecture that is not only sustainable but also tells stories – about the people, culture, and nature of Peru. |
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The Architecture of Inkaterra Hotels
Each of Inkaterra’s seven hotels embodies its own architectural style, derived from the characteristics of its surroundings. Peru is a diverse country, characterized by great geographical differences and a rich cultural past. Guislain was inspired by local construction methods and traditional building materials when designing each hotel, giving each a unique character. We present four of the hotels as examples. |
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Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica: Ecological Architecture in the Heart of the Rainforest
In the Peruvian Amazon, on the banks of the Río Madre de Dios, lies Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica, a luxurious eco-lodge that blends seamlessly into its surroundings. The 35 thatched or palm-thatched wooden cabins pay homage to the traditional buildings of the Ese’Eja indigenous community and the region’s architectural identity. This also fits perfectly with the Reserva Amazónica’s central design principle: a deep connection to nature.
High roofs and open structures allow for natural ventilation in the tropical climate, ensuring comfortable indoor temperatures. Instead of walls and hard boundaries to the outside world, large verandas open up views of the rainforest and river. The diverse flora and fauna, including more than 540 species of birds, are never far away, inviting travelers to linger and enjoy nature. |
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| Despite its simple, natural construction, the lodge offers all the comforts of luxurious accommodation: handcrafted furniture gives each cabaña a unique charm, and natural cosmetics and decorations enhance the traveler experience. It has limited electricity and no internet, ensuring an unspoiled wilderness experience. There is, however, hot water and excellent service from the resort’s experienced guides.
The architecture of Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica demonstrates how sustainable design can restore and strengthen the connection between people and nature. For most people, a stay is not something that is easily forgotten. |
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