There are a few basic hospedajes and campsites in and around Villavieja, and most are not particularly recommended. One exception is Hotel Boutique Yarayaka ★ (hotelyarayaka@gmail.com; tel. 313/247-0165), at Carrera 4 no. 4–43. This surprisingly chic 12-room property in the center of town has whitewashed walls, a thatched roof, and contemporary rooms. All have private bathrooms and good Wi-Fi. Best of all there’s an outdoor pool with lounge chairs, which helps make up for the lack of air-conditioning. Doubles COP$150,000.

Another option is El Peñon de Constantino ★ (www.desiertodelatatacoacolombia.com; tel. 317/698-8850), a collection of cushy safari-style tents with private bathrooms and running water, as well as basic cabins and thatched-roof malokas. There’s a simple restaurant on-site and a rock-wall pool fed by a natural spring. They can also help coordinate excursions in the desert. It’s about 2km beyond the observatory. Tents costs COP$80,000 for two, while the cabins, malokas, and camping are considerably less.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.