Cejar Lagoon Tour – Flotation, Cocktail & More!”

Getting a glimpse of the Atacama Desert’s otherworldly landscapes is a highlight for many travelers heading to Chile. This Cejar Lagoon Tour, priced at $56 per person, offers a compact yet richly rewarding experience lasting about 5.5 hours. Led by bilingual guides, you’ll visit some of the most striking salt flats and lagoons, including Laguna Cejar, Ojos del Salar, and Laguna Tebinquinche, ending with a relaxing sunset cocktail overlooking the desert.

What makes this tour special? First, there’s the floatation in Laguna Cejar, a salt lake so buoyant that it feels like you’re defying gravity. Second, the opportunity to see local wildlife, including flamingos at Tebinquinche, adds a natural element to the surreal scenery. We also appreciate how intimate this experience is—the tour is limited to just 12 people—making it more personal and less rushed than larger group outings.

One potential consideration is the entry fees not included in the tour price, which you’ll need cash for—these can add up depending on how many sites you visit. Also, the high altitude (up to 2,500 meters above sea level) means a bit of acclimatization may be necessary if you’re sensitive to altitude sickness. This tour suits travelers who love stunning landscapes, unique natural experiences, and a more exclusive, small-group vibe.

If you enjoy breathtaking vistas, like floating effortlessly in saltwater, and want a taste of Chile’s spectacular desert scenery, this tour will hit the mark.

Key Points

• Unique floatation experience in Laguna Cejar, similar to the Dead Sea
• Visit to Ojos del Salar, a natural freshwater spring oasis in the salt flats
• Enchanting Laguna Tebinquinche, with impressive reflections and wildlife
• Sunset cocktail offering panoramic views of the Atacama Desert
• Small group size (up to 12) ensures personalized attention
• Height of 2,500 meters means some may need to acclimate

You can check availability for your dates here:

Unpacking the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour begins with a hotel pickup, which is always a plus, especially if you’re staying in San Pedro de Atacama or nearby. Your guide, who speaks both Spanish and English, sets the tone for a day filled with natural wonders and quiet contemplation.

Laguna Cejar: The Salt Lake Marvel

The first stop is Laguna Cejar, renowned for its high salinity—so much so that you’ll float effortlessly without effort, reminiscent of the Dead Sea. We loved the way the deep blue waters starkly contrast against the white salt crust, creating a landscape that looks almost painted. The salt shores are crunchy and textured, providing a tactile connection to the environment. Visitors often comment on the visual poetry of the scene, especially as the sunlight alters the colors during the day.

It’s worth noting that the entrance fee for Laguna Cejar is paid in cash, with prices around CLP 15,000 for general entry, plus discounts for children, seniors, and indigenous certificates. While the fee isn’t included in the tour price, most find it reasonable given the rarity of the experience.

Ojos del Salar: An Oasis in the Salt Flats

Next, the group moves to Ojos del Salar, a natural spring surrounded by salt flats. This spot provides a refreshing break from the arid landscape, with clear, freshwater springs that contrast vividly against the surrounding salt. It’s an excellent place to relax, take photos, and enjoy the unique sensation of standing in water that’s not as salty as Laguna Cejar.

From traveler reviews, many appreciated the contrast here—”A real oasis in the middle of nowhere,” as one put it. The natural springs are not just picturesque but also serve as a reminder of the underground water systems that sustain this harsh environment.

Laguna Tebinquinche: Reflection and Wildlife

The tour then takes you to Laguna Tebinquinche, a larger salt lagoon that reflects the sky like a mirror. By day, you’ll see vivid blue waters, and at sunset, the landscape transforms into a canvas of warm hues. The salt crust along the shores offers a crunchy tactile experience, adding to the connection with this stark environment.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be pleased to spot flamingos and other aquatic birds, adding a lively touch amidst the vast silence. One review mentions the “beautiful reflections and quiet elegance”, emphasizing how special this spot is for photography and peaceful contemplation.

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Sunset and the Cocktail: A Perfect Finish

As the afternoon turns to evening, you’ll be treated to a sunset cocktail, perfectly timed to coincide with the changing colors of the desert. The panoramic views at this altitude (up to 2,500 meters) are breathtaking, with the vast Atacama Desert stretching into the horizon. The experience combines natural beauty with a relaxing toast, making it a memorable way to end the day.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour includes shared transportation which is comfortable and ensures you can relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving.
• The group size of no more than 12 people enhances the experience, allowing more personal interaction with the guide.
• Be prepared for the high altitude—bring warm clothing for the sunset, as temperatures can drop quickly.
• Essentials to pack include sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, towel, and water. Since the water is salty, avoid bringing valuables into the lagoons.
• Remember the cash-only entrance fees for each site.
• The tour generally runs for about 5.5 hours, with times varying based on your hotel location and availability.

What We Loved and What to Consider

What we find especially compelling about this tour is the combination of striking natural scenery and intimate group size. Floating in Laguna Cejar feels surreal, almost like a gentle reminder of a dream about weightlessness. The visual contrast of salt flats, blue lagoons, and the fiery desert sunset creates unforgettable pictures.

Another highlight is the variety of stops—each offering a different perspective on the salt flats, whether it’s the salty lagoon, freshwater springs, or reflective lake. Each location provides a unique environment, making the tour feel more like a journey through a natural sculpture garden.

A potential drawback is the entrance fees—these aren’t included and can add a modest expense, especially if you plan to visit multiple sites. Also, at high altitude, some travelers might experience lightheadedness or fatigue, so taking it slow and staying hydrated is wise.

This tour is best suited for nature lovers, photographers, and those looking for a peaceful, visually stunning experience. If you enjoy small-group adventures where you can ask questions and get personalized attention, you’ll appreciate the intimate setting.

Final Thoughts

The Cejar Lagoon Tour offers a compelling snapshot of the Chilean Atacama’s otherworldly beauty. Floating effortlessly in Laguna Cejar is a definite highlight, but the tour’s real strength lies in its variety of stops—each revealing a different facet of this stark, beautiful landscape. The sunset cocktail ties the experience together with a sense of calm and wonder.

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic day with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to learn about salt flats and springs, this tour delivers excellent value. Its limited group size ensures a more personalized, relaxed atmosphere, which is a real plus.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a mix of adventure and tranquility, love stunning vistas, and are keen to avoid the crowds. Just remember to come prepared with cash, warm clothing for the evening, and plenty of water—you’re in a high-altitude desert, after all.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup, which makes things easy, especially if you’re staying in San Pedro de Atacama or nearby.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, but start times vary depending on availability.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, water, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for entrance fees.

Are the entrance fees included?
No, the fees for Laguna Cejar and Ojos del Salar are paid in cash, and you’ll need to budget approximately CLP 15,000 for Laguna Cejar and CLP 6,000 for Ojos del Salar.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years or pregnant women due to altitude and physical activity considerations.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 passengers, making it more personal and relaxed.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The high-altitude environment and walking on salt crusts may pose challenges, so it might not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in your planning.

To sum it up, the Cejar Lagoon Tour in Chile’s Atacama offers a blend of natural wonder, gentle adventure, and peaceful reflection. Whether you’re floating in salt lakes, gazing at flamingos, or enjoying a sunset cocktail, you’ll find this experience packed with unforgettable sights. It’s ideal for those wanting a manageable, scenic excursion that highlights some of the desert’s most photogenic spots—an experience you’ll appreciate long after you leave the salt flats behind.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby