Unusual Ways to Dine Al Fresco

We’ve exposed some great places to dine al fresco in some of Latin America’s most treasured spots. From picnicking on a table made from a white water raft to romantic beachside dinners – there’s something for everyone here!

1. Curanto, Chiloe Island

As part of a visit to Chiloe, the second largest island in South America, you’ll be exposed to many aspects of the Chilotes culture and tradition. An insightful end to the day is found in the evening meal, where you’ll learn how a traditional curanto is made before tucking into a hearty meal.

What’s a curanto? A local speciality whereby chicken, pork, mussels, bacon, picoroco and potato dumplings are all placed in a pit and covered with layers of peat. This mountain of food is then cooked over several hours to lock in the smoky flavour and the peat layers are peeled off to reveal your dinner – simply delicious!

2. El Tatio, Atacama Desert

A visit to El Tatio Geysers in the Atacama Desert with Explora en Atacama provides an unexpected opportunity to dine al fresco. Take a private early morning excursion followed by a visit to Puritama hot springs – as Explora own the pool at the top you’ll have the place to yourself while guides set up a private picnic so you can relax and dine in this tranquil setting. This is an utterly unique twist on the typical picnic that promises zero Tupperware and ultimate luxury.

3. Esencia, Mexico

Could there be a more idyllic setting for al fresco dinning than the shores of a powder white Caribbean beach? At luxury hotel Esencia, on the Riviera Maya, there is the opportunity to sample the delectable choice of food on their award winning menu from a secluded candle lit table on the beach.

4. Pacuare, Costa Rica

We wouldn’t normally associate adrenaline activities with a scenic al fresco meal, but Pacuare Lodge really treat you on this adventurous day out. After paddling down the river and negotiating grade 3 and 4 rapids, you pull over onto a pebbled bank to relax and sunbathe while your guides prepare a special lunch for you – complete with chefs’ hats and aprons! Overturned rafts become dining tables and a selection of tasty food is laid out to refuel the hungry rafters. Enjoy fresh and flavoursome salads, avocado, tortillas, hams and cheeses before continuing on for a few more hours of adventure.

5. Picnic, Tikal

Rising early to see the ruins in Tikal is on every traveller’s Guatemala trip checklist. There’s not much that can add to the wonderful experience of listening to the wildlife awake in this atmospheric setting that’s filled with history. However, La Lancha make the experience even better by setting up a lavish picnic for you – enjoy crisp white table cloths and delicious food without having to part with these once-in-a-lifetime surroundings.