Laguna Cejar, Ojos del Salar and Tebenquinche in Atacama

Discovering the Salt Flats of Atacama: Laguna Cejar, Ojos del Salar, and Tebenquinche

If you’re headed to San Pedro de Atacama and want to experience some of the most visually striking and uniquely relaxing spots, this tour hits the mark. For about $47.40 per person, you’ll spend around four and a half hours exploring three unforgettable sites: Laguna Cejar, Ojos del Salar, and Laguna Tebenquinche. With a convenient start at 2:00 pm, the tour offers a manageable afternoon escape from your usual desert hikes or star-gazing adventures.

What we love most about this trip is the chance to float effortlessly in Laguna Cejar — it’s just as surreal as it sounds, like the Dead Sea but in the heart of the desert. Plus, the contrasting Ojos del Salar with its freshwater wells reflecting the sky, provides a striking visual break from the arid surroundings. The Laguna Tebenquinche seals the experience with its mirror-like surface, especially during sunset, creating a photo opportunity you won’t forget.

A few considerations: the entrance fees to Cejar and Tebenquinche are not included, so be prepared to pay cash at the entrance. Also, the group size is limited to 12, which keeps things intimate but means booking in advance is wise—most travelers book about six days ahead. This trip suits travelers who enjoy natural beauty, relaxing activities, and guided tours with knowledgeable hosts like Carolina and Cesar, who are praised for their friendly care and clear explanations.

Key Points

• Unique Floating Experience: Laguna Cejar’s high salinity makes floating effortless and fun.
• Photogenic Scenery: Tebenquinche’s mirror-like surface and Ojos del Salar’s reflection are perfect for memorable photos.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 12 travelers, fostering a relaxed and personalized atmosphere.
• Cost Consideration: Entrance fees are payable separately, so budget accordingly.
• Timing and Duration: A well-paced 4.5-hour tour, ideal for an afternoon outing.
• Great for Relaxation & Photography: Those seeking calm, scenic spots, and a chance to capture stunning images.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

First Stop: Laguna Cejar

The highlight here is the floatation, which is truly unlike anything we’ve experienced. Thanks to its high salt content, you won’t need to do much more than lie back and enjoy the sensation of weightlessness. It’s soothing and oddly therapeutic—perfect for unwinding amid desert surroundings. Keep in mind, admission tickets are not included, so you’ll pay cash on site. Spend around two hours here to enjoy floating, snap photos, or just soak in the sun.

Travelers often mention how special this experience is, with some reviewers noting their delight at the “very beautiful place” and the “best pictures” taken thanks to attentive guides like Carolina and Cesar. It’s worth noting, though, that some comments highlight that the guides’ delivery of information may vary—so your experience can depend on the guide you get.

Second Stop: Ojos del Salar

Next, you’ll visit two circular freshwater wells called Ojos del Salar. These wells are a stark contrast to the salt flats—crystal-clear, freshwater, and reflective, they seem almost out of place in the dry landscape. Surrounded by the desert, these wells mirror the sky and distant mountains, offering a serene setting perfect for quiet reflection or a quick dip if you’re feeling brave.

Most travelers find this stop peaceful and visually captivating. It’s a free visit, so there’s no extra cost, and you’ll spend about an hour here. The deep blue of the water against the desert backdrop makes for beautiful photos and a calming break from the midday sun.

Final Stop: Laguna Tebenquinche

The last stop is Laguna Tebenquinche, a vast saline lagoon known for its expansive plains and reflective surface. Here, the water acts like a giant mirror, especially during the day when the sky’s blue is perfectly reflected. Come sunset, the lagoon turns into an artist’s palette of warm colors, making it a photographer’s dream.

Expect to spend about 1.5 hours here, enjoying the natural spectacle and possibly capturing some stunning photos. The free entrance allows visitors to soak in the immersive landscape without additional costs. Many reviews praise the view at Tebenquinche as “spectacular,” especially during the golden hour.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The real charm of this experience lies in its combination of relaxing activity (floating in Laguna Cejar) and spectacular vistas (the reflections at Tebenquinche). The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the inclusion of snacks adds a touch of comfort during the journey.

The guides, like Carolina, are often singled out for their attentiveness and friendliness, making the experience more engaging. Many reviews note how guides took care to help with photo-taking or just making sure everyone felt comfortable and informed.

On the flip side, some travelers mention that guide delivery of information can vary—so your experience might depend somewhat on the specific guide. Also, since entrance fees are paid separately, it’s wise to bring cash and be prepared for additional costs.

Deep Dive: The Value of This Tour

This tour’s value hinges on its combination of cost, convenience, and experience. For just under fifty dollars, you get a well-paced trip through some of the most visually stunning spots in the Atacama. The transportation is shared but limited to a small group, making it more intimate and flexible. The inclusion of snacks is a thoughtful touch, helping you stay refreshed for the journey.

While the price does not include entrance fees, they are paid on-site and are reasonable, considering the locations’ popularity. The 4.5-hour duration is perfect for an afternoon activity, leaving you free to explore other parts of San Pedro or enjoy an evening star tour.

Most travelers find the experience to be both relaxing and awe-inspiring. The floating in Laguna Cejar alone makes this worth doing for most, especially if you enjoy unique natural phenomena. The photographic opportunities at Tebenquinche and Ojos del Salar also add a special touch, perfect for those looking to enhance their travel album.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate natural beauty and relaxing activities, like floating effortlessly in salty waters. It suits those wanting a short, manageable excursion that offers both visual drama and physical relaxation. It’s perfect for visitors who value guides with good local knowledge and don’t mind paying entrance fees separately.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, you’ll appreciate the small group setting and the chance to capture stunning images. It’s especially suitable for those who want a break from more physically demanding adventures and prefer scenic, contemplative moments amid extraordinary landscapes.

FAQ

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the entrance fees to Laguna Cejar and Tebenquinche are paid separately, in cash, at the site. It’s good to bring some local currency just in case.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 4.5 hours, starting at 2:00 pm and ending in San Pedro, making it an ideal afternoon activity.

What should I bring?
Light clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, still water, a swimsuit, and a towel are recommended. Be prepared for sunny weather and possibly some water activities.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but consider physical limitations or health issues related to floating or exposure to sun and saltwater.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 people, providing a relaxed and personalized atmosphere.

Can I expect good guide service?
Yes, reviews highlight friendly guides like Carolina and Cesar, though delivery of information can vary from person to person.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a perfect blend of relaxation, stunning scenery, and distinctive natural phenomena. The chance to float in Laguna Cejar is a memorable highlight, while the reflections at Tebenquinche and the freshwater wells of Ojos del Salar provide excellent photo opportunities and peaceful moments.

While there is a small extra cost for entrance fees, the overall value remains high given the breathtaking sites and personalized experience. It’s especially suited for those interested in visual splendor, quiet contemplative spaces, and small-group adventures. If you’re looking for a half-day escape into some of the most photogenic landscapes of the Atacama, this tour should be on your list.

Whether you’re after serene photo stops, a relaxing float, or just want to see some of the most extraordinary salt flats terrain, this trip delivers with friendly guides and beautiful scenery.