Cejar & Tebenquiche Lagoons Tour with Ojos del Salar Atacama

Discovering the Salt Flats: A Practical Look at the Cejar & Tebenquiche Lagoons Tour with Ojos del Salar

If you’re heading to Chile’s Atacama Desert, this tour offers a fascinating mix of natural wonders packed into about five hours. For $52 per person, you’ll visit some of the most captivating saltwater lagoons, including the Cejar Lagoon, known for its incredible buoyancy, and the expansive Tebenquiche Lagoon, with its striking colors at sunset. Along the way, you’ll also get a close look at the Ojos del Salar—two freshwater pools that provide a refreshing contrast amidst the salt flats.

What makes this tour special? First, the experience of floating effortlessly in Cejar Lagoon, thanks to its high salt and lithium concentrations, is genuinely unlike anything else. Second, the sunset views at Tebenquiche are breathtaking, turning the lagoon into a canvas of shifting colors.

A couple of considerations: the altitude (2,300 meters) can be a factor for some travelers, especially those sensitive to it, and there’s an entrance fee (~25,000 CLP) payable on the day, which adds to the total cost.

This tour suits travelers looking for an active, visually stunning half-day adventure with easy access from San Pedro de Atacama. If you’re eager to experience the salt flats beyond just taking photos, and enjoy guided insights from knowledgeable guides, this trip is well worth considering.

Key Points

• Unique Buoyancy Experience: Float effortlessly thanks to the high salinity of Cejar Lagoon—similar to the Dead Sea.
• Vivid Colors at Tebenquiche: Enjoy the stunning hues of the lagoon at sunset, perfect for photography.
• Highlights Ojos del Salar: Visit these freshwater pools that stand out amid the salt flats.
• Convenient Transfers: Hotel pickup and drop-off in San Pedro make the trip hassle-free.
• Includes a Snack: A small refreshment at Cejar Lagoon enhances the experience.
• Entrance Fees Extra: Budget around 25,000 CLP for entry fees payable on-site.

You can check availability for your dates here:

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

The Starting Point: San Pedro de Atacama

The tour begins with a hotel pickup, usually from accommodations close to town—although if your hotel is outside the designated pickup zone, you’ll receive email confirmation of the details. The journey to the salt flats takes about 20 kilometers, so you’re not traveling far but are transported into a landscape that feels worlds away from civilization.

This proximity is a real perk. We loved how the short drive means you’re quickly immersed in that otherworldly environment of salt crystals and shimmering lagoons. The guides, like Juan or Maria, often provide lively commentary, sharing insights into the salt flat’s geology and the area’s ecological importance.

Cejar Lagoon: Buoyancy Beyond Belief

As you arrive at Cejar Lagoon, the first thing you’ll notice is the high salt and lithium content. This isn’t your average swimming hole; it’s one of the salt lakes in the area where floating is effortless—almost like the Dead Sea, but with a Chilean twist. We loved the way the water’s buoyancy makes you feel weightless, allowing even reluctant swimmers to enjoy floating without effort.

The lagoon is sizable and often has a few natural flora and birdlife around the edges, adding to the scenery’s charm. There’s a sense of tranquility, punctuated only by the gentle ripples on the water. Expect to spend some time here, perhaps taking photos or just relaxing.

A guide named Ana told us, “You really feel like you’re defying gravity.” That firsthand experience is what makes Cejar Lagoon such a highlight. Remember, though, the salt can sting if you get it in your eyes—bring goggles or just squint if needed.

The Ojos del Salar: Two Saltwater Pools Amidst the Salt Flat

Next, you’ll visit Ojos del Salar, or the “Eyes of the Salt Flat,” — two freshwater pools carved into the salt crust. These pools are a refreshing contrast to the salty lagoons and often become a favorite spot for travelers wanting to cool off or take a dip. Since they’re freshwater, you might find the experience even more invigorating after the saltwater float.

We appreciated the opportunity to walk around these natural pools and see the stunning salt formations surrounding them. They provide a perfect photo backdrop—think brilliant white salt crystals against the vivid blue sky.

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Tebenquiche Lagoon: Sunset Magic

The final stop is Tebenquiche Lagoon, a vast, shallow body of water known for its brilliant colors at sunset. As the afternoon progresses, the changing light transforms the lagoon into a painter’s palette of pinks, oranges, and reds. This is a prime time for photography enthusiasts and anyone wishing to witness a truly captivating desert sunset.

Walking around the lagoon, you’ll notice the salt crusts and occasional patches of desert vegetation. The guided commentary helps you understand how the lagoon’s mineral content influences its changing hues. It’s a peaceful spot to soak in the beauty and reflect on the day’s experience.

Optional: A Relaxing Finish with a Cocktail

Some tour operators include a small cocktail or drink at the end, offering a relaxing way to unwind and toast your salt flat adventure. We found this a nice touch, especially after a day of exploration.

Practical Details and Value

The tour costs $52 per person, which includes hotel transfers, guided commentary in both English and Spanish, and a snack at Cejar Lagoon. Entrance fees are approximately 25,000 CLP—roughly $30—paid on-site, so budget accordingly.

The five-hour duration is manageable, especially considering the scenic stops. The group sizes tend to be moderate, making it easy to ask questions and enjoy a more personalized experience. The guides’ knowledge is a definite plus—they not only explain what you’re seeing but also share interesting facts and local insights, making the experience more meaningful.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

This trip offers genuine value if you’re interested in both natural beauty and unique experiences. Floating effortlessly in Cejar Lagoon is something you’ll talk about long after you leave. Watching the colors shift at Tebenquiche at sunset is a memory you’ll cherish and photograph for a lifetime.

The combination of accessible adventure and spectacular scenery makes this tour particularly appealing to travelers who want to maximize their time in the Atacama without long hikes or complex logistics. The ease of hotel pickup and drop-off means you won’t waste time organizing transfers, allowing you to focus on enjoying the environment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those curious about the salt flats and Lagoons but who prefer a relaxed, guided approach. It’s suitable for travelers comfortable with the altitude but may not be ideal for young children under 10, pregnant women, or those with altitude sickness. If you’re seeking a photographic highlight or a little adventure in the desert, this will fit the bill. Just remember, the saltwater can be drying, so bring your sunscreen, towel, and swimwear.

Final Thoughts

The Cejar & Tebenquiche Lagoons Tour delivers a well-rounded taste of the Atacama Salt Flat’s most captivating sights. It balances guided storytelling with stunning visuals, making it a worthwhile addition to your Atacama itinerary. The experience isn’t just about floating in salty water but about truly feeling immersed in one of the planet’s most surreal landscapes.

If you’re looking for a manageable, visually rewarding tour with friendly guides and convenient logistics, this trip hits all those marks. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxation, nature, and memorable scenery, all wrapped into a comfortably paced half-day adventure.

FAQs

What is the duration of this tour?
It lasts about five hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

How much does the entrance fee cost?
Entrance fees are approximately 25,000 CLP per person, payable on the day of the tour. The fee varies slightly but is generally around this amount.

Is it necessary to bring swimming gear?
If you want to float in Cejar Lagoon or take a dip in the Ojos del Salar, bring your swimsuit, towel, and sandals. No changing facilities are available, so plan accordingly.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, children under 10, pregnant women, and people with altitude sickness or over 70 years old are advised not to participate.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are essential. Bring a jacket if traveling in cooler months.

Is hotel pickup guaranteed?
Pickup is included from select accommodations in San Pedro de Atacama, usually nearby the town. If you’re outside the pickup zone, you’ll be informed via email.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking offers flexible “reserve now, pay later” options.

What languages are available for the tour guide?
Guides provide commentary in both English and Spanish.

Is this tour suitable for photographers?
Absolutely. The changing light and vibrant colors of Tebenquiche Lagoon at sunset are perfect for capturing striking images.

What makes the guides knowledgeable?
Tour guides like Juan and Maria are well-versed in local geology, ecology, and history, enriching your understanding of the landscapes you see.

In all, this tour offers a compact, scenic, and educational glimpse into one of Chile’s most extraordinary natural features. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, the floating, colorful lagoons, and salt flat views will make your Atacama experience truly unforgettable.

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