Cejar Lagoon and Ojos del Salar with Tebinquiche Tour

Exploring the Atacama Desert’s natural wonders is an experience like no other. If you’re looking for a day that combines spectacular scenery, unique floating sensations, and tranquil desert lagoons, the Cejar Lagoon and Ojos del Salar with Tebinquiche Tour offers just that. At around $102 per person, this roughly five-hour journey is designed for travelers wanting an accessible introduction to the region’s captivating landscapes. You’ll visit three distinct sites: the famous Laguna Cejar, the reflective Laguna Tebinquiche, and the striking Ojos del Salar.

One of the things we love about this tour is how it captures the essence of the desert’s raw beauty. The chance to float effortlessly in salty waters at Laguna Cejar really makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a natural wonder. Plus, the tranquil Tebinquiche lagoon’s mirror-like surface offers may be one of the most photogenic moments you’ll get in San Pedro, reflecting sky and mountains in a way that’s almost surreal.

A second highlight is the variety of landscapes and experiences packed into a short trip. From floating in salt-laden waters to strolling along quiet shores and gazing at the expansive desert from Ojos del Salar, it’s a well-rounded taste of the region’s diverse scenery. The inclusion of a refreshing cocktail adds a nice touch to relax after a day of exploring.

A possible consideration is that some of the stops have limited time—about an hour each—so if you’re craving in-depth exploration or multiple dips, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, note that admission tickets aren’t included in the price, so plan for additional costs. Still, if you’re after stunning views and a taste of desert serenity, this tour is well suited to those with limited time who want a balanced, scenic experience.

If you enjoy beautiful landscapes, floating in salt waters, and visiting must-see sites early in your stay, this tour will be a great fit.

Key Points

• Spectacular landscape variety: From salt lagoons to desert vistas, each stop offers a unique view.
• Floating in salty waters: A one-of-a-kind sensation, reminiscent of the Dead Sea, noted as highly recommended by past travelers.
• Photogenic sites: Tebinquiche lagoon’s reflective waters and the vast Ojos del Salar provide incredible photo opportunities.
• Short but sweet: The 5-hour duration makes it perfect for a half-day adventure.
• Additional costs: Entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly.
• Limited time at each stop: About an hour per location, so plan your expectations for quick visits.

A Detailed Look at What to Expect

Booking and Price

At around $102 per person, this tour offers good value considering the sights covered and the guided experience. It’s common for bookings to be made about a week in advance, which suggests good availability for most travelers planning ahead. The tour is operated by Tangol, and includes pickup (from central San Pedro hotels), air-conditioned transportation, a professional guide, and a relaxing cocktail at the end.

While the price seems modest, remember that entrance fees aren’t included, so you should budget for those separately. Given the stunning scenery and the unforgettable experience of floating in saltwater, many find the cost worthwhile.

Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Laguna Cejar

This is the tour’s headline act. Laguna Cejar, at 2,300 meters above sea level, is famous for its high salt concentration, allowing visitors to float effortlessly—just like in the Dead Sea. The panoramic views of volcanoes surrounding the lagoon heighten the sense of being in a truly unique environment. It’s a quick visit—about an hour—so don’t expect hours of lounging, but it’s enough time to wade in the salty waters and snap some memorable photos.

A review highlights how “bathing in the salt waters of Tebinquinche lagoon where you float without any effort, a very interesting experience, highly recommended,” capturing how this stop can be a highlight for many. Some mention the cold water at Laguna Cejar, but the float sensation generally compensates for the temperature.

Second Stop: Laguna Tebinquiche

This spectacular lagoon is renowned for its mirror-like surface that reflects the sky and mountains around it, creating a dream-like scene. It’s a free stop, so you can enjoy walking along the shores and marveling at the calm, reflective waters. Many visitors find this moment particularly photogenic, and it provides a relaxing break after the more active Laguna Cejar.

One reviewer described this as “a dreamy scenario that will leave you breathless,” emphasizing how Tebinquiche’s serenity and beauty make it an unforgettable stop. The shallow waters and tranquil setting provide a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the views and taking photos.

Final Stop: Ojos del Salar

The trip ends at Ojos del Salar, two small natural lagoons in the middle of the desert. These appear almost out of nowhere, showcasing the unusual beauty of water in such an arid landscape. Here, you’ll have the chance to cool off in clear waters while admiring expansive views of the Andes and desert. It’s a fitting finale, offering a quiet space to reflect on the day.

While some reviews mention that Ojos del Salar feels a bit “undistinguished” compared to the other stops, it still provides a striking contrast to the salt lagoons. It’s less about the spectacle and more about the peaceful setting.

Return and Flexibility

After Ojos del Salar, the tour concludes with a drop-off near the San Pedro town center, leaving you free to explore or return to your hotel. For those who prefer convenience, private drop-offs are available. The small group size (up to 15 people) ensures a more personalized experience and easier interaction with guides.

Practical Details and Tips

Timing and Logistics

Starting at 2:00 pm, the tour fits perfectly into an afternoon schedule, allowing you to visit before sunset. The group size (max 15) helps keep the experience intimate and manageable. Remember, most travelers book about 8 days in advance, so plan ahead for peak times.

What to Bring

Plan for comfort and sun protection: bring comfortable slippers or sandals, a swimsuit, towel, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water. The salt in the waters can be drying, so staying hydrated is key.

Additional Costs

You should budget for admission tickets at Laguna Cejar and Ojos del Salar**, as they are not included in the tour price. This can add a bit to your total expense but is typical for scenic outings in the region.

Suitability

This tour is ideal for most travelers aged 8 to 75 without health problems. It’s suitable for anyone comfortable with short walks and outdoor exposure. Always check with your doctor if you have health concerns.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

The tour’s floating experience at Laguna Cejar seems to be the star attraction, with one reviewer calling it “a very interesting experience, highly recommended.” The visual impact of Tebinquiche’s reflective waters is another highlight, often described as “breathless” or “dreamlike,” making it popular among those seeking great photos and peaceful surroundings.

Some travelers feel the short time at each stop is a minor drawback, but most agree that the variety of landscapes and the quality of the scenery more than compensate. The inclusion of a cocktail at the end is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to unwind and reflect on the day’s sights.

Final Thoughts: Who is This Tour For?

This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a half-day of stunning scenery and unique saltwater experiences. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors who want a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and photo opportunities. The small group size and guided format make it ideal for travelers seeking a hassle-free way to see some of the region’s best natural sights.

While it doesn’t include lengthy exploration or multiple dips, the visual variety and serene landscapes make it a memorable choice. If you’re happy with a quick but enriching visit to Laguna Cejar, Tebinquiche, and Ojos del Salar, this tour will meet your expectations.

FAQ

Are hotel pickups included?
Only for centrally located hotels in San Pedro. If you stay outside the center, you may need to meet at the designated point or arrange private transportation.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 2:00 pm, with about an hour at each site.

Do I need to pay for entrance fees?
Yes, entrance fees for Laguna Cejar and Ojos del Salar are not included in the tour price, so plan to pay those separately.

What should I bring?
Comfortable footwear, swimsuit, towel, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed for ages 8 to 75 without health issues, making it family-friendly.

Can I take photos?
Absolutely. The scenery is highly photogenic, especially the reflective Tebinquiche lagoon.

This adventure offers a wonderful glimpse into the natural beauty of the Atacama, combining floating saltwater fun with breathtaking desert vistas. For anyone wanting a taste of salt lagoons, desert serenity, and striking landscapes, it’s a solid choice—and one that leaves plenty of room for spontaneous discoveries in San Pedro afterward.