On the edge of the Salar de Uyuni, Casa Gastón is a ten-suite luxury hotel born from the vision of the late Gastón Ugalde, the ‘Andean Warhol’ – set to open its doors in March 2026.
Set at the foot of the majestic Tunupa volcano, near the small Andean village of Jirira, Casa Gastón has uninterrupted views across the gleaming white salt flats. The concept was thought up by Ugalde himself, widely regarded as the father of Bolivian contemporary art, for whom the salar was his greatest natural canvas. At its heart is a belief that art should be lived with, not observed from a distance.
Expect an excellent in-house program of immersive experiences exploring the salt flats, volcanic trails and quinoa fields, all rooted in sustainable tourism. Back at the hotel, soak in the lithium tubs, take in the on-site art installations and artworks, and enjoy the restaurant, with culinary direction by Bolivian star chef Marsia Taha.
What we love about Casa Gastón
- The architecture blends ancient Andean building techniques with contemporary design, using natural materials, muted tones and carefully framed sightlines that create a continuity between the interiors and landscape.
- Each of the ten suites has its own private terrace with fire pit and lithium bath, along with hand-sculpted natural stone bathtub, along with oxygen assistance to help with the altitude.
- The art focus, with works by Ugalde and other Bolivian contemporary artists throughout, and an on-site art residency program.
- The restaurant, led by chef Marsia Taha, one of Bolivia’s most important contemporary chefs.
- The vast array of activities designed to connect guests to the local landscapes and Ugalde’s vision, all rooted in sustainability.
- A clear commitment to community engagement, cultural preservation and environmental responsibility.
Experiences at Casa Gastón are rooted in the geography, mythology and everyday life of the Altiplano, curated with the same precision as the architecture and art itself.
Walk across the salt flats at sunrise, or set out with your guide for sundowners in the evening as the horizon softens and the full moon rises. Explore the slopes of Tunupa volcano on foot, passing pre-Columbian sites, ancient trails and natural viewpoints overlooking the Salar. Visits to nearby quinoa fields and llama herds offer insight into the agricultural traditions that continue to sustain Jirira and its small community.
On clear nights, the altitude and remoteness make for exceptional stargazing, with guided sessions that place Andean cosmology alongside astronomy. Cycling across the salt flats or descending from Tunupa provides a more kinetic way to engage with the landscape, while time spent within the property itself – in its art pavilions and communal spaces – invites quieter reflection on Ugalde’s enduring belief that art and life are inseparable.
When to Travel
May to September
The dry season, from April/May to October/November, is generally the most reliable time to visit the Uyuni salt flats. Conditions are at their clearest and driest, making it the best period for exploring the Salar and the surrounding Altiplano by vehicle or on foot. Daytime temperatures are typically mild, while nights can be cold, with sub-zero temperatures not uncommon at this altitude.
Those keen to see the salt flat’s mirror-like reflections should travel during the rainy season, from December to March, when shallow water pools across the surface. While visually striking, this period can limit access to certain areas and makes overland travel more dependent on conditions.
ENQUIRE NOWLooking for more inspiration? Learn more about our bespoke holidays and adventures in Bolivia, or discover our other luxury stays.
