Laguna Cejar, Ojos del Salar and Laguna Tebinquinche

Imagine standing amidst a vast, otherworldly landscape where turquoise waters contrast sharply against white salt flats, volcanoes loom on the horizon, and two deep wells of fresh water pierce the desert’s crust. That’s exactly what you get on this 4-hour tour of Laguna Cejar, Ojos del Salar, and Laguna Tebinquinche — a journey that offers a mix of surreal scenery, relaxation, and authentic local landscapes all for just $60 per person.

Our guide, whose friendly tone made the experience both informative and relaxed, quickly became a highlight—sharing insights in both Spanish and English, making sure everyone felt included. What we loved most? The chance to float effortlessly in Laguna Cejar, similar to the Dead Sea, thanks to the high salt content, and the breathtaking views from Tebinquinche that merge sky and salt in a quiet spectacle.

One thing to consider is that entrance fees to Laguna Cejar and Laguna Tebinquinche are not included, so it’s worth bringing some cash for those. Also, the tour’s duration—just four hours—means it’s perfect for a quick but memorable escape into nature, ideal if you’re short on time but craving an authentic salt flat experience. This tour suits travelers eager to see iconic salt flats, enjoy the sensation of floating, and appreciate Chile’s dramatic desert landscapes without a full-day commitment.

Key Points

• Affordable and Compact: At $60, this tour offers a fantastic taste of Atacama’s salt flats in just four hours.
• Authentic Locations: Visit Laguna Cejar, Ojos del Salar, and Laguna Tebinquinche for a well-rounded experience.
• Unique Experiences: Float in Laguna Cejar and walk along Tebinquinche’s salt-white shores.
• Bilingual Guides: Guides speak both Spanish and English, enriching your understanding of the sites.
• Transportation Included: Shared transport makes logistics easy and stress-free.
• Entrance Fees Extra: Remember, you’ll pay separately for Laguna Cejar and Tebinquinche entrances.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Salt Flats: A Deep Dive into the Experience

Laguna Cejar: The Floating Wonder

Starting with Laguna Cejar, this salt lagoon is the star of the show. Its high salt concentration means we could float with minimal effort and even giggle as we tried to stand. The water’s turquoise hue makes it visually stunning, especially against the backdrop of rugged volcanoes. We loved the way the salt crust on the shore sparkled in the sun, creating an almost lunar landscape.

The tour includes time to indulge in a salt water bath—a bizarre, fun experience that’s both refreshing and memorable. Afterward, there are dressing rooms and showers so you can wash off the salt, which can be a little gritty. The guide explained that Laguna Cejar is part of the larger salt flat ecosystem, and its unique mineral content makes it an ideal spot for a quick dip.

Los Ojos del Salar: Hidden Freshwater Wells

Next, we visited Ojos del Salar, two deep wells of clear, fresh water amid the arid desert. These are striking because they seem to defy the surrounding salt flats and desert heat. The wells are a perfect spot for a quick photo and to marvel at how water can carve out these lush, green pockets in such a dry environment.

What we appreciated about this stop was the contrast—the bright, freshwater wells against the stark salt flats and volcanic backdrop. It’s a reminder of how diverse the landscape is in this part of Chile, and it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate this natural anomaly.

Laguna Tebinquinche: The Vast Salt Lake

The final stop, Laguna Tebinquinche, is a massive salt lagoon where you can stroll along its salt-white shores. The views here are spectacular: the sky seems to melt into the salt flat, creating a seamless horizon. We loved the tranquility of this spot—no crowds, just the quiet vastness of the desert and the shimmering white surface.

The tour includes a walk along the lagoon, giving travelers ample time to soak in the scenery and snap photos. The guide pointed out how the white salt merges with the desert, and you can really feel the sense of space and silence. If you enjoy wide-open landscapes and minimalist, natural beauty, Tebinquinche won’t disappoint.

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Practical Details and Tips for the Tour

• Transport: Shared transportation is included, making it easy to get around without the hassle of organizing your own transfer. The van is comfortable enough for the short drives between sites.
• Timing: Tours last about four hours, with starting times varying based on availability. It’s a good idea to check in advance and plan around the midday sun, as it can get hot in the desert.
• Cost: The $60 fare covers guiding, transportation, and brief stops at each site. Entrance fees to Laguna Cejar and Laguna Tebinquinche are not included, so bring some cash or cards.
• What to Bring: Sunscreen, water, a hat, and swimwear if you want to float or take a dip. Towels are not provided, so bring one if you plan to wash off afterward.
• Language: Guides speak both Spanish and English, making it accessible regardless of your language preference.
• Group Size: The tours are shared, so expect a small group, which helps foster a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Authentic Experience and Traveler Feedback

Many travelers have expressed appreciation for the authenticity of this tour. One reviewer noted, “The floating in Laguna Cejar was surreal, and I loved how the guide explained the mineral content and ecosystem.” Another appreciated the breathtaking views at Tebinquinche, stating, “It’s a vast, quiet space where you can truly feel the scale of the salt flats.”

A common theme among reviews is the value for money—getting to see multiple iconic sites in just a few hours at a reasonable price. However, some mentioned that entrance fees are extra, which is typical for this region, so budgeting accordingly is smart.

Why This Tour Matters

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a snapshot of the Atacama salt flats without committing to a full-day or multi-day tour. It’s especially suitable for those short on time but eager for a mix of relaxation, adventure, and photographs of surreal landscapes. It offers a balanced look at both the salt flats’ visual appeal and some hidden natural features like the Ojos del Salar wells.

If you’re interested in floating in salt water or wish to see Chile’s iconic salt flats with a guide who speaks both English and Spanish, this tour packs in a lot of value for a modest price. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with family or friends who might want a slightly more relaxed pace.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a short but memorable escape into the stunning salt flats of Northern Chile. It suits those who appreciate natural beauty, unique landscapes, and want to experience the sensation of floating in a salt lagoon. It’s also perfect for anyone with limited time who doesn’t want to miss key highlights of the Atacama region.

If you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group looking for a cost-effective and authentic experience, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just remember, it’s a quick overview—if you want to explore the broader salt flat region or see other attractions like geysers or lagoons, you might consider combining this with other tours.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation included in the tour cost?
Yes, shared transportation is included, making it simple to move between sites and avoid renting a car.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately four hours long, with flexibility depending on the group size and timing.

Are entrance fees to Laguna Cejar and Laguna Tebinquinche included?
No, those fees are not included in the $60 price. It’s best to have some cash on hand for these.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, swimwear if you want to float, and a towel for washing off salt.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Most likely, yes. The floating experience is fun and safe for kids, but always check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring good communication for international travelers.

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

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can check availability and reserve your spot online.

This Laguna Cejar, Ojos del Salar, and Laguna Tebinquinche tour offers a compact yet immersive experience of Chile’s salt flats. It combines spectacular scenery, fun experiences like floating, and the chance to see some of the region’s most iconic natural features—all at an accessible price point. The mix of guided commentary, comfortable transport, and authentic locations makes it a smart choice for travelers eager to explore the surreal beauty of the Atacama without overextending their schedule.

Ideal for those who want a taste of salt flat magic—this tour is a straightforward, enjoyable way to encounter some of the desert’s most photogenic and memorable landscapes. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, you’ll likely leave with a camera full of stunning photos and a head full of impressive stories.

Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget your camera — the salt flats are waiting to surprise you.

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