Cejar & Tebenquiche Lagoons Tour with Ojos del Salar Atacama

Discover the Salt Lagoons of Atacama: Cejar & Tebenquiche with Ojos del Salar

If you’re visiting the Atacama Desert, there’s no shortage of extraordinary sights, but a trip to the Cejar Lagoon and Tebenquiche Lagoon offers something truly special. For about $59, this 5-hour guided tour takes you through some of the most mesmerizing salt lakes in northern Chile, with plenty of chances to relax, marvel at nature’s artistry, and even float effortlessly in waters with buoyancy higher than the Dead Sea.

What we really love about this experience are two features: First, the unique buoyancy at Cejar Lagoon, which makes floating almost effortless; second, the spectacular colors of Tebenquiche Lagoon, especially at sunset when the water turns boldly turquoise against a salt-crystal backdrop.

A potential drawback to consider is the cancellation risk—some travelers have noted that tours can be canceled unexpectedly, sometimes with little notice. So, it’s wise to book with a flexible provider and keep an eye on the weather when planning your day.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers, photographers, or anyone eager to experience the otherworldly landscape of the Atacama Salt Flat with minimal hassle. If you’re craving a blend of stunning visuals and gentle adventure, this will serve you well.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique Buoyancy: Experience floating effortlessly in the Cejar Lagoon’s salt-rich waters.
• Vibrant Colors: Admire the striking hues of Tebenquiche Lagoon, especially at sunset.
• Multiple Sites: Visit Ojos del Salar, two freshwater pools amid salt flats, plus Piedra Lagoon.
• Guided Tour: Benefit from insightfully led commentary in English and Spanish.
• Authentic Experience: Enjoy walking around a vast lagoon and relaxing with a cocktail in the desert.
• Price & Duration: Affordable at $59, with a well-paced 5-hour schedule.

An In-Depth Look at the Cejar & Tebenquiche Lagoons Tour

When we think about Atacama, salt flats and otherworldly landscapes usually come to mind. This tour offers a curated journey through that landscape, with Cejar Lagoon as the highlight. At just 20 kilometers from San Pedro de Atacama and sitting at 2,300 meters above sea level, Cejar Lagoon is a natural marvel. Its high salt and lithium content give the water an almost surreal buoyancy, often described as more buoyant than the Dead Sea.

We loved the way the tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, making logistics straightforward for travelers. The route includes multiple stops, starting with Piedra Lagoon, a smaller saltwater body where you can float effortlessly, giving you that classic “floating in saltwater” photo op. The guided commentary provided by your bilingual guide adds context to each site, making the visit both visual and educational.

The Experience at Cejar Lagoon

Arriving at Cejar Lagoon, you’ll be greeted by a vast, shimmering lake surrounded by salt crystals that sparkle under the sun. The waters are remarkably buoyant, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself effortlessly floating on your back, feeling like you weigh nothing. It’s a strange and wonderful sensation, similar to the Dead Sea but in a much more scenic setting.

Many travelers appreciate the guided commentary—our guide, Juan, was particularly enthusiastic about explaining the high salt and lithium concentrations and how they influence buoyancy. You’ll be encouraged to take a swim or simply lounge on the salted shores. A snack is included here, perfect for refueling before moving on.

The Natural Beauty of Tebenquiche Lagoon

Next, your route takes you to Tebenquiche Lagoon, a sprawling, tranquil water body famed for its vivid turquoise color, especially as the sun begins to dip. It’s a fantastic spot for photos, thanks to the contrast of water and salt-encrusted shores. You’re encouraged to walk a circuit around the lagoon, soaking in the panoramic views—an experience that many find both peaceful and invigorating.

The sunset timing amplifies the lagoon’s colors, making this the perfect moment to snap memorable photos or simply sit and enjoy the quiet. Our guide mentioned that, at this time of day, the colors deepen, creating a landscape that feels almost surreal.

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The Ojos del Salar

One of the more rare sights on this tour are the Ojos del Salar—two freshwater pools piercing through the salt flats. These pools are deep and inviting, contrasting sharply with the salt lakes, and are often described as refreshing spots to dip your toes or take a quick swim. Photos here capture the stark difference between the clear freshwater and the salt surrounding it, a vivid reminder of the diverse geology of the salt flat.

Final Stop and Refreshment

The tour wraps up with a relaxing cocktail beside the desert, allowing you time to reflect on the day’s stunning sights. The scenic drive back to San Pedro de Atacama is a good opportunity to chat with your guide or review your photos.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Pricing and What’s Included

At $59 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the exclusive access to salt lagoons and guided insights. The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, live commentary in both English and Spanish, and a snack at Cejar Lagoon. However, tickets to access the lagoons cost approximately 25,000 CLP, which is an additional expense you’ll need to budget for.

Things to Keep in Mind

• The tour lasts about 5 hours—a comfortable length, but bring layers if you’re sensitive to altitude or chillier evening temperatures.
• It’s best to reserve in advance and leave a WhatsApp contact for smooth communication.
• Cancellation policies are flexible, allowing full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours prior, but some reviews note that cancellations can still happen unexpectedly.
• You will visit multiple sites—Piedra Lagoon, Cejar, Ojos del Salar, and Tebenquiche—so comfortable footwear and sunscreen are recommended.

Who Will Enjoy This?

If you’re after stunning visual experiences and a relaxing day in nature, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for those interested in photography, floating in saltwater, or simply soaking in surreal landscapes. The guides’ knowledge adds depth, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

Balancing the Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:
– The buoyancy experience at Cejar Lagoon is genuinely unique.
– The colors at Tebenquiche are breathtaking, especially at sunset.
– The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the trip both educational and enjoyable.
– It’s a cost-effective way to see multiple salt flats and lagoons in one go.

Cons:
– Tour cancellations have occurred with little notice, so flexibility is key.
– The additional ticket cost for lagoon entry can add up.
– The altitude (2,300 meters) might affect some travelers, especially if they’re sensitive to elevation.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers wanting to see the salt flats while enjoying some fun floating and picturesque scenery. It’s particularly suited to photographers looking for vibrant landscapes or travelers who appreciate guided insights into the environment. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with minimal walking but a lot of visual reward, this is an excellent choice.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guidance in English and Spanish, a snack at Cejar Lagoon, and visits to multiple salt lagoon sites.

Are the lagoons accessible for swimming?
Yes, especially at Cejar Lagoon and Ojos del Salar, where you can float or dip your toes. Tebenquiche is more of a walking and viewing experience.

How much are the lagoon tickets?
Tickets are approximately 25,000 CLP per person, paid separately.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

What should I wear?
Bring swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes for the circuit at Tebenquiche.

Is it suitable for children?
Generally, yes, but children should be mindful of altitude and salt water sensitivities.

Will I get enough time at each site?
Yes, the schedule balances time between spots, with enough for photos, swimming, and walking.

What are the main highlights?
The standout moments are floating in Cejar Lagoon, enjoying the sunset at Tebenquiche, and seeing the freshwater Ojos del Salar.

Is this a good value for the price?
Absolutely, considering the guided experience, multiple sites, and natural beauty, it offers excellent value.

Final Thoughts

For anyone headed to San Pedro de Atacama and eager for a memorable, scenic experience, this tour offers an authentic taste of the salt flats. The floatation in the saltwater lakes, the vivid colors at sunset, and the knowledgeable guides make it well worth considering. While be mindful of potential cancellations and extra costs, the overall experience is sure to leave you with fantastic photos and a deeper appreciation for this surreal landscape.

Whether you’re a photographer, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxing yet awe-inspiring half-day adventure, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to some of the most unique sights the Atacama has to offer.

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