CEJAR LAGOON, SALT FLAT EYES AND TEBINQUINCHE LAGOON

Exploring the Salt Flats and Lagoons of North Chile: A Deep Dive into the CEJAR Lagoon, Salt Flat Eyes, and TEBINQUINCHE Lagoon Tour

When we think of North Chile, especially the Atacama Desert, images of vast salt flats and otherworldly landscapes immediately come to mind. This particular tour offers an engaging and visually stunning journey through the Salar de Atacama, visiting some of its most iconic spots: Laguna Cejar, Laguna Piedra, and Tebinquinche Lagoon, with a stop at the Ojos del Salar. Priced at a reasonable $59 per person for around 4 hours, this experience is an accessible way to see some of the most photographed and memorable scenery the region has to offer.

What makes this trip memorable? First, the opportunity to float effortlessly in Laguna Piedra, with its salt-rich waters creating a sensation similar to the Dead Sea — a fun and unique experience for all ages. Second, the spectacular views at Tebinquinche Lagoon, where the horizon seems to blur between sky and salt flats, providing a perfect backdrop for photos. A potential consideration? The entrance fees for Laguna Cejar and Tebinquinche are additional, so you’ll want to budget around CLP$20,000 extra. Still, for what you get — transport, a bilingual guide, and access to some of the area’s top sights — it’s a solid value.

This tour is ideal for travelers craving an easy, scenic adventure with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and relaxing moments. If you enjoy landscapes with a hint of adventure—like floating in saltwater or walking amid salt and volcano vistas—this trip will suit you well. Family groups and those on a tight schedule will find it especially convenient.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes: Expect turquoise lagoons framed by salt flats and volcanoes.
• Floating in Laguna Piedra: A highlight, offering a Dead Sea-like experience with added amenities like changing rooms and showers.
• Short and sweet: The 4-hour duration fits well into a busy travel day, with flexible start times.
• Guided experience: Bilingual guides ensure you understand the significance of each site.
• Additional costs: Entrance fees are not included in the tour price, so plan accordingly.
• Transportation: Shared transport makes it comfortable to relax between sights without the hassle of driving.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Visiting the Salt Flats and Lagoons: What to Expect

The journey begins with a pickup from a designated meeting point, where a shared vehicle whisks you out into the vast, otherworldly landscape of the Salar de Atacama. The first stop is Laguna Cejar, famous for its high salt concentration and floating sensation. The water here is so dense that, as one reviewer puts it, “we loved the way we could just lie back and float like a cork.” It’s an experience that makes you feel like a giant human salt cube, and it’s perfect for a few goofy photos.

Just nearby, Laguna Piedra offers similar saline waters but with a more tranquil vibe. Its surroundings of yellow and green grasses contrast sharply with the bright blue of the water, creating a picture-perfect scene. This lagoon is less crowded than Cejar, giving you more space to relax or take photos. Here, you’ll have the chance to enjoy another float, with the added benefit of facilities to rinse off and change, which many reviews find convenient.

Next, the tour takes you to Ojos del Salar, two deep freshwater wells that pierce the salt flat. These wells are fascinating for their stark contrast: pure, cool water amid the salt desert. As one traveler shared, “seeing water so clear in the middle of the salt desert made the landscape feel even more surreal.” This spot offers a brief walk and some great photo opportunities.

Finally, the highlight for many is Tebinquinche Lagoon. This immense, shimmering salt water body is famous for its striking vistas, where the horizon seems to blend into the sky and salt flats. The tour includes a walk along the lagoon’s edge, offering sweeping views where the skies and salt plains appear to merge. It’s a place where you’ll want to pause and take in the grand scale of the landscape. The views here are often described as “breathtaking,” and the experience of standing on the salt flats with the sky overhead is unforgettable.

The Practicalities

Transportation is shared, making the trip comfortable and eco-friendly. Guides are bilingual, sharing insights and answering questions in both Spanish and English, which enhances the experience significantly. The tour’s duration—around four hours—fits well into a day of sightseeing, especially if you’re based in San Pedro de Atacama.

Entrance fees for the lagoons are an extra expense: CLP$15,000 for Laguna Cejar (adults) and CLP$5,000 for Tebinquinche. We appreciated that the tour providers give this information upfront, so you’re not surprised at the ticket booth. It’s worth noting that the tour timings are approximate and may shift slightly based on daylight and traffic, but your guide will keep you well-informed.

In terms of value, for $59, you get pick-up, transportation, and a bilingual guide. Considering the stunning landscapes and unique experience of floating in salt water, this is quite a competitive price. The trip is particularly suited for those who want a quick but impactful encounter with the salt flats, especially if you’re limited on time but want to see the highlights.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

Many travelers mention that the tour exceeded their expectations. One remarked, “The floating sensation in Laguna Piedra is unlike anything I’ve experienced before. It’s such a strange, fun feeling—and the fact that it’s easy to do makes it perfect for everyone.” Others appreciated the informative guides, who explained not just what they saw but also some background on the salt flats’ formation and ecology.

Some reviews pointed out the importance of bringing sun protection and water, as the desert sun can be intense. Also, since entrance fees are paid separately, a few travelers suggested bringing cash in local currency. The consensus was that the scenery is worth every penny and that the experience is both relaxing and visually stunning.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour offers a fantastic balance of spectacular scenery, relaxing floating experiences, and straightforward logistics. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to see the most iconic salt flats and lagoons without a full-day commitment, or those on a tight schedule. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with family, as the floating lagoons are fun and safe for kids.

However, if you’re someone who craves a more in-depth exploration or wants to visit more remote parts of the salt flats, this tour might feel a little brief. Still, for most visitors, it hits enough high notes to be memorable. It’s a perfect way to add a splash of surreal beauty to your Chilean adventure without breaking the bank.

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FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 4 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

Are the lagoons included in the price?
No, entrance fees for Laguna Cejar and Tebinquinche are paid separately — approximately CLP$15,000 and CLP$5,000 respectively.

Is there transportation provided?
Yes, shared transportation is included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving.

Is the tour bilingual?
guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication and context about each site.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, water, and a towel. Some reviews also recommend bringing cash for entrance fees.

Can kids do this tour?
Yes, floating lagoons are suitable for children, and many families find it to be a fun, safe experience.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Does the tour include lunch or food?
No, food and meals are not included. You’ll want to bring snacks or plan to eat afterward.

What are the main highlights?
Floating in Laguna Piedra, the stunning views at Tebinquinche, and the chance to see deep freshwater wells in the desert.

Is this tour suitable for photography?
Absolutely. The landscapes, especially at Tebinquinche, provide excellent opportunities for wide-angle shots and memorable photos.

This tour gives you a taste of North Chile’s most striking salt flats and lagoons with comfort, value, and plenty of visual wow-factor. Whether you’re after a fun float, stunning photos, or just a break from the desert heat, it’s a relaxed and memorable way to experience the surreal landscape of the Atacama.

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