Mallku Villamar – Potosi

Basic data & context

• Mallku Villamar is a community / locality in the municipality of Colcha “K”, in the province of Nor Lípez of the Department of Potosí.

• The original registered name is “Mallku Cueva”.

• It is associated with a tourist accommodation called Hotel Mallku Cueva (or simply Mallku Cave) that seems to be built partly inside rock / cueva, a mountain lodge-hotel with a special character.

• According to the page “Boliviaesturismo”, The name of the cave is linked to the fact that “the Mallkus gathered there.” (authorities of the region)”.

Turismo & characteristics of the place

• The Mallku Cueva hotel is presented as “hybrid architectural” accommodation between natural rock and modern comfort. Offers rooms, buffet breakfast, chimney, electric blankets…

• About location and environment: It is in a very remote area, in the Andean plateau/mountain range, near tourist routes such as the famous “lagoon route” in southern Bolivia.

• A TripAdvisor review points out that although the environment is spectacular (“The location of the hotel is wonderful”), some rooms have sound insulation and comfort that could be improved, What you need to know when visiting such a remote place.

Considerations for visiting / what to take into account

• Being in a high altitude area: This implies that the visitor must prepare for cold, climate changes, possible altitude symptoms. The characteristics of the place make it less urban and more “adventure”.

• Accessibility and comfort: Given the remote location, services such as heating, hot water, Internet may have limitations depending on season and demand. The review suggests it.

• Specialized accommodation: Although it is a hotel with a particular design, It doesn't seem to be complete luxury; It's more of a boutique / special for nature tourism. Knowing what type of experience you want is key.

Location & name

• Sometimes it appears as “Villamar Mallcu” or “Villamar Mallcu, Nor Lípez, Potosi”.

• “Mallku” or “Mallcu” may be an orthographic/local variant of the Quechua/Aymara term that refers to authority or mountain. (“Lalt”). For example, The word “Mallku” also appears in other cultural contexts.