We stopped here on our second night of a three day trip from San Pedro de Atacama to Uyuni.
It is a low stone building above San Pedro de Quemez – a small village in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by desert. The night we stayed we were the only people in the hotel. The staff were excellent, very kind and went out of their way to make sure we enjoyed our stay.
There is a large reception area with dining room off. This has a large stove which takes the chill off the room.
A corridor with textile wall hangings leads to the bedrooms which are arranged round 2 small covered courtyards. We had a large pleasant room with views across village. There were 2 double beds with light but extremely warm quilts. The bathroom off the bedroom had a sink, shower unit, toilet and plenty of towels.
Meals were simple but filling.
Solar panels provide electricity and hot water. Electricity is turned off about 10pm so it is advisable to have a torch handy for night trips to the bathroom. If there are a lot of people stopping, the hot water supply may run out during the evening. There is no TV or internet (although there are plans for it). There is no mobile phone coverage and the hotel uses radio to keep in contact.
It is a short walk from the hotel to explore the ruins of the old village destroyed by fire.
Don’t expect luxury and all the trappings which seem essential to the modern traveller. Enjoy this lovely place with great character and a lot of charm.
The Tayka hotel website is here:
tinyurl.com/63f7xx7
tinyurl.com/5sexlmc
Our pictures (and the next 2) start here:
http://homepage.mac.com/wasleys/sth_amer_10_mw/04ToSPdQ/image-html/16IMGP3410.html