Soak Up the Magic of Patagonia at This Eco-Friendly Geodesic Dome Retreat

Nature lovers looking for an unforgettable experience would do well to stay at EcoCamp Patagonia—an award-winning, sustainable oasis lauded as the world’s first geodesic dome hotel.
Text by

Nestled in the heart of Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park is Cascada Expediciones’ EcoCamp Patagonia, a luxury resort that goes green with glamping. Opened in 2001, EcoCamp comprises a collection of geodesic domes that run on renewable energy and are designed for minimal landscape impact. The domes offer an immersive experience in a stunning Andes landscape sculpted by glacial forces.

Soak Up the Magic of Patagonia at This Eco-Friendly Geodesic Dome Retreat - Photo 1 of 12 -

Considered an industry leader in sustainable lodging, EcoCamp provides a comfortable haven for those seeking modern amenities within a wild environment. 

Soak Up the Magic of Patagonia at This Eco-Friendly Geodesic Dome Retreat - Photo 2 of 12 -
Soak Up the Magic of Patagonia at This Eco-Friendly Geodesic Dome Retreat - Photo 3 of 12 -

Solar and hydraulic energy power the site, while waste is handled by composting and recycling. EcoCamp also prides itself on working closely with the local community by generating jobs, raising environmental awareness, and purchasing locally grown and harvested foods.

Soak Up the Magic of Patagonia at This Eco-Friendly Geodesic Dome Retreat - Photo 4 of 12 -

The hotel also offsets all its emissions to reach carbon neutral status. Sustainable practices have earned EcoCamp ISO14001 certification since 2007 and ISO 9001 certification since 2012.

Soak Up the Magic of Patagonia at This Eco-Friendly Geodesic Dome Retreat - Photo 5 of 12 -

Four dome types are available: Standard Domes, Superior Domes, Suite Domes, and Suite Dome Lofts. All rooms, aside from the Standard Domes, come with their own private bathrooms.

Soak Up the Magic of Patagonia at This Eco-Friendly Geodesic Dome Retreat - Photo 6 of 12 -

The geodesic domes are raised off the ground on elevated platforms to minimize landscape disturbance, a design decision inspired by the indigenous Alacalufe nomads who leave no trace as they travel. The green color of the domes also helps blend them into the environment.

Soak Up the Magic of Patagonia at This Eco-Friendly Geodesic Dome Retreat - Photo 7 of 12 -

Thick insulated walls and propane heaters help keep the domes toasty. Curved glazing lets in ample amounts of natural light.

Soak Up the Magic of Patagonia at This Eco-Friendly Geodesic Dome Retreat - Photo 8 of 12 -

Guests can meet other travelers in the Community Domes, where communal meals are served. Guests can wake up for a yoga session at the Yoga Dome and comfortably stargaze through their dome’s ceiling windows at night. 

Soak Up the Magic of Patagonia at This Eco-Friendly Geodesic Dome Retreat - Photo 9 of 12 -

Guided excursions are also available including multi-day treks on Torres del Paine’s most famous hikes.

Soak Up the Magic of Patagonia at This Eco-Friendly Geodesic Dome Retreat - Photo 10 of 12 -

Last year, EcoCamp was awarded the second-best hotel in South America in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards. You can head over to EcoCamp Patagonia’s Booking.com page to read reviews and make a booking.

Soak Up the Magic of Patagonia at This Eco-Friendly Geodesic Dome Retreat - Photo 11 of 12 -
Soak Up the Magic of Patagonia at This Eco-Friendly Geodesic Dome Retreat - Photo 12 of 12 -

To reserve a stay at EcoCamp Patagonia, click here.


Project Credits:

Builder/General Contractor: Javier Lopez, Yerko Ivelic

Structural Engineer: Javier Lopez

Civil Engineer: Javier Lopez, Yerko Ivelic, Nani Astorga

Landscape Design: Yerko Ivelic

Published

Last Updated

Get the Dwell Newsletter

Be the first to see our latest home tours, design news, and more.