About Us
Dulce Base Tipi was founded in 2022
Welcome to Dulce Base Tipi, where tradition meets adventure in the heart of the Jicarilla Apache Nation.
I'm Heather C. Gomez, an enrolled member of the Jicarilla Apache Nation, living on our ancestral lands in Dulce, New Mexico. In the spring of 2023, I began hosting guests in a tipi through Airbnb. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with visitors appreciating the unique blend of Jicarilla Apache culture and the intriguing lore surrounding the nearby Dulce UFO Underground Base.
In 2024, I was honored to receive a $10,000 equity-free grant from the Embark program, a collaboration between Founded Outdoors and REI Path Ahead Ventures, which supports entrepreneurs from underrepresented communities. This funding enabled me to expand our offerings by adding two more tipis, now available for booking on both Airbnb and here at dulcebasetipi.com.
To enhance the cultural experience, I introduced an option for guests to enjoy traditional Jicarilla stew and frybread delivered directly to their tipi. This year, we've further improved the site with thoughtful landscaping and privacy fences, ensuring a comfortable and immersive stay.
I'm also excited to announce the launch of Jicarilla Rez Tours exclusively for our guests, which offers guided explorations that delve into the history, traditions, and wonders of our reservation. It's a heartfelt invitation to connect with the land and stories that have shaped our community.
Thank you for supporting Indigenous-owned business. I look forward to sharing the spirit of the Jicarilla Apache Nation with you.
