If you’ve heard about Marfa, then you’ve definitely heard about El Cosmico—an über hip glamping destination for people who want to try their hand at existing in the middle of nowhere but have barely stepped foot outside the city in years.
You can bring your own tent and camp on their property, or stay in a safari tent, tepee, trailer or yurt, all of which are outfitted with a queen-size bed, electrical outlets, A/C, heat and electric blankets. There’s also even a super luxe structure called “Cosmic Kasita” that visitors can book, which is basically an artsy studio apartment with its own bathroom and shower.
Good morning from the Safari Tent!
There are communal latrines and outdoor showers, with another set of indoor bathrooms and showers inside the El Cosmico lobby. The best surprise perk was free coffee in the lobby every morning with…wait for it…almond milk. They definitely know their target audience.
Gordon and I made it to El Cosmico on Wednesday night around 8:30 p.m. but it felt much later because it was so dark and cold and quiet. The campground is pretty small and our safari tent was literally right next to the lobby, but we were pretty disoriented from the travel hangover.
This sign is impossible to read after the sun goes down.
Me in my best Texas attire, inside our safari tent.
Under his eye.
Art in the desert! El Cosmico is next door to the Chinati Foundation, a contemporary art museum founded by Donald Judd. The collection was closed on Thanksgiving, so we missed one of the few “can’t-miss” things to do in Marfa.
Gordon in an electric cart! There were slightly less high-tech versions scattered around the parking lot for visitors to unload and transport their junk from car to tepee.
Quick picture on the first morning in Marfa, before a run.