The surreal, barren landscape presents an out-of-this-world camping opportunity
Words by ANUSH J. BENLIYAN
Amid the 4,000 salt-encrusted square miles of Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni sits Kachi Lodge, the new property from luxury camp outfitter Amazing Escapes. Situated at the foot of the Tunupa volcano, the camp, opened in May, features a string of six solar-powered geodesic dome accommodations equipped with plush bedding, wood-burning stoves and, upon request, a supply of extra oxygen to help combat the 12,000-foot altitude.
Isolated on the windswept highland terrain — which happens to be a breeding ground for several species of pink flamingos — Kachi Lodge is dedicatedly sustainable, designed to run solely on solar energy, and produces no water waste through a cutting-edge pump filtration system. In fact, though it is permanent, the property itself is mobile, having been installed on wood floors and panels sans excavation or anchoring on the actual land.
Hike the rugged Mad Max-evoking salt plain or venture to nearby Coquesa to explore the village’s ancient ruins; and come wet season (December through April), paddleboard upon the flooded, reflective terrain while soaking up the mesmerizing views. Take in the site-specific contemporary works of the Kachi Lodge’s first artist-in-residence, famed Bolivian enfant terrible Gastón Ugalde, whose spellbinding pieces converse with nature, environments and culture.
Back at camp, tuck into a multicourse dinner at the only satellite outpost of restaurateur Claus Meyer (Noma) and chef Kamilla Seidler’s La Paz restaurant, Gustu — one of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants in Latin America.
Two-night minimum stay from $1,980/person.
Feature image: Bolivia’s new luxury camp KACHI LODGE by AMAZING ESCAPES is situated 12,000 feet above sea level, on the world’s largest salt flat, the Salar de Uyuni. Photos copyright Amazing Escapes.
