Deep in the Colombian highlands, a hotel made of mushrooms is mastering the art of combining luxe amenities and cutting-edge design with complete immersion in nature.
By Manon Tomzig
Journalist and travel writer, Tablet contributor
Book Bosko on Tablet Hotels.
It’s fair to wonder: what even is glamping anymore? The glamour part of the term was always meant to be a little ironic; camping still needs to be the baseline every new instance evolves from, otherwise it’s just a fancy suite in the woods. But camping, in the traditional sense, is merely one way to go glamping. The genre has as many variations as there are combinations of dwellings, landscapes, and extravagances. If there’s a common denominator, it’s that your shelter will be stand-alone and will put you in close proximity to nature, whether through tent, cabin, trailer, treehouse, tiny home, or geo-dome.
Which brings us to Bosko.
In the elevated rainforests of Colombia’s Antioquia department, under the towering eye of The Stone of El Peñol, strange mushrooms have sprouted up — transparent geodesic structures and wooden cabins covered in white canvas perched high in the treetops. These magnificent UFOs overlook the Peñol–Guatapé reservoir, nicknamed the “sea among the mountains.”
An hour and a half from Medellín, Bosko has established itself as the most stylish and luxurious iteration of glamping in Colombia. Despite its creature comforts, the pure purpose of the hotel is to immerse guests in the natural world. “It was born from a desire to reimagine the way people experience nature,” explains Juan David Ramirez, co-owner of the property. “We wanted to create a place that is a return to what truly matters: peace, connection, and wonder.”
So what about those mushrooms?
To create the unique architecture at Bosko, the hotelier drew inspiration from the local environment — the lush Guatapé region — as well as designs discovered in Africa. “Our Mush-Rooms were inspired by organic forms in nature — specifically mushrooms, which represent resilience, regeneration, and natural beauty. We wanted our architecture to feel as though it emerged from the forest itself, not imposed upon it.”
The result is a structure that invites curiosity and blends harmoniously with the surroundings. Thanks to their transparent walls, the rooms allow the mysterious and captivating atmosphere of the forest to penetrate, including panoramic views of the mountains, the lake, and the gently swaying trees. Surrounded by nearly 3 hectares of primeval forest, the hotel shares its grounds with 71 plant species and 52 animal species, including armadillos, squirrel monkeys, giant butterflies, and all sorts of colorful birds that guests can watch for from their perches.
Sustainability is a cornerstone of Bosko’s approach, which means that none of these ambitions — which include suspending ten rooms with jacuzzis and infinity pools high in the treetops while preserving the flora and fauna — were without their challenges. “Before breaking ground, we conducted a certified biodiversity study,” recalls the co-owner. “Traditional building methods weren’t viable; we had to innovate and use modular, low-impact techniques. All our rooms are designed with support systems that minimize contact with the ground to preserve the natural terrain.”
Groundbreaking engineering and spectacular setting aside, Bosko is, above all, a humble family business. Four siblings from Medellin, particularly attached to Guatapé and its natural treasures, long dreamed of creating something magical here. Today, they manage the hotel together: “We are all involved in the day-to-day operations,” explains Juan David. “We’ve divided the responsibilities to ensure the project runs smoothly and remains deeply familiar.”
There aren’t many family-run businesses like this one.
Scroll down for a full FAQ about Bosko.
Nuts & Bolts
A bite-sized breakdown of your most frequently asked questions about Bosko.
Who comes here?
Mostly couples and adults looking for serenity, privacy, and connection with nature. Travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path luxury.
When’s the best time to visit?
Guatapé has a pleasant climate year-round, but December through March tends to be the driest and sunniest. That said, every season offers something magical — from misty mornings to crystal-clear afternoons. August tends to be the most visited month, due to Feria de las flores, Medellin’s most iconic annual celebration. It’s a vibrant, colorful event that honors the region’s cultural identity, flower-growing heritage, and deep-rooted traditions.
What else is there to do in the area?
Guests can hike to the top of the famous El Peñol Rock, take boat rides on the lake, explore the colorful village of Guatapé, kayak, or enjoy a spa session at Bosko. For those seeking stillness, simply relaxing in a Mush-Room is an experience in itself.
Best room for a solo traveler? A couple? A family?
With its private terrace, outdoor shower and lake views, the Deluxe Mush-Room is perfect for a solo traveler. To pamper yourself, you can also book the Golden Mush-Room that comes with a hot tub. Couples will enjoy the Presidential Mush-Room. Set in a large wooden cabin, it offers a large terrace, a plunge pool and a steam bath. Bosko is only adult-oriented so it doesn’t offer family rooms.
What’s a design feature I would miss if you didn’t tell me about it?
The geometric SkyPools, overlooking the lake below, are heated to higher temperatures at night, making them perfect for stargazing.
Continued below…
Anything to say about sustainability, equality, and community?
Sustainability is one of the hotel’s founding values. The hotel avoids soil sealing, recycles water, and limits noise and light pollution. All cleaning products are biodegradable, and the hoteliers regularly assess our ecological footprint. The family also works with local suppliers, employs members of nearby communities, and actively protects the surrounding flora and fauna. They also promote gender equality at every level of operation.
Are there some standout amenities you’d recommend?
The private pools and jacuzzis, the curated spa therapies, the bonfire, and room service are among guests’ favorites.
Without further ado, what’s there to eat?
The restaurant offers a fusion of Colombian ingredients and international techniques, featuring freshly caught fish and seasonal ingredients. Guests can enjoy dishes like red snapper with coconut caramel and mushroom tortellini over mashed plantain with white wine cream. The tasting menu changes regularly.
Tell me about Tablet Plus?
At the time of publishing, Bosko offers Tablet Plus member privileges, including a room upgrade at check-in (upon availability), complimentary bottle of wine, a welcome treat in your room on arrival, and a 25 USD credit for incidentals.
The final word?
Glamping is all the rage around Guatapé, and Bosko stands out as one of the most exclusive options.
Book Bosko on Tablet Hotels.
