San Pedro de Atacama: Cejar Lagoon, Tebenquiche & Ojos Salar

Exploring the Salt Flats: A Dive into the Atacama’s Unique Landscape

If you’re visiting San Pedro de Atacama, a tour visiting Cejar Lagoon, Tebenquiche, and the Ojos del Salar promises a fascinating look into one of the most surreal environments on Earth. For around $58 per person, this roughly five-hour excursion takes you through some of the most visually striking spots in the desert—places that define the otherworldly charm of the Atacama salt flat.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to bathe in the high-salinity waters of Cejar Lagoon, where sinking is impossible—think of it as floating effortlessly in a giant salt bath. Plus, the Ojos del Salar offer a spectacular view—two twin sinkholes that look like portals to another realm, surrounded by the intense blue waters that form a striking contrast against the desert’s ocher tones.

One possible consideration is the rescheduling or cancellations—a review mentioned a last-minute change, which can be frustrating if you’re counting on this experience. It’s worth confirming your booking and having some flexibility in your plans.

This tour suits travelers who love stunning landscapes, crave authentic desert experiences, and aren’t bothered by the occasional scheduling hiccup. If you’re eager to experience the salt flats up close and want expert commentary (in Spanish and English), this could be a perfect fit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique Locations: Visits to Cejar Lagoon, Tebenquiche, and Ojos del Salar showcase the diversity of salt flat scenery.
• Floating Experience: The high salt concentration makes swimming a fun, sink-free adventure.
• Stunning Views: The landscape offers incredible photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
• Guided Insights: Spanish and English guides enrich the experience with local knowledge.
• Value for Money: At $58, the trip includes transportation, a guide, and an appetizer—good value considering the scenery.
• Potential for Rescheduling: Be aware of the possibility of last-minute changes, as some reviews indicate.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Meeting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at the Touristour square in San Pedro de Atacama. From there, you’ll travel south by bus or minibus, which is a comfortable way to cover the roughly 5-hour round trip. The group size isn’t specified but is typically manageable, allowing for personal interaction with your guide.

Having transportation included is convenient because it saves you from the logistical hassle of navigating the vast salt flats on your own. Plus, it allows you to relax and enjoy the changing scenery along the way—desert plains, distant volcanoes, and the looming Licancabur volcano.

Cejar Lagoon: The Showstopper

Your first stop is Cejar Lagoon, a spectacular salt lake formed by rainwater that has collected in the salt flats. What makes Cejar particularly fascinating is its extreme salinity, even higher than the Dead Sea. This means you can float effortlessly, which is a fun and memorable experience—no swimming skills needed.

The lagoon’s bright white salt crust and crystal-clear waters make for great photos. If you’re brave enough, you can bathe in the waters, which many travelers find delightfully relaxing despite the salty sting. One review notes, “You can bathe in Cejar and try to learn about its waters,” which highlights how unique and accessible this experience is.

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Ojos del Salar: Twin Sinkholes

Next, the tour takes you to the Ojos del Salar—two twin sinkholes that emerge like peaceful oases amidst the arid desert. Their deep blue waters contrast beautifully with the ocher landscape, creating an almost surreal scene. You can enjoy the view and perhaps even dip your toes into the water, marveling at how such a lush-looking spot exists in the middle of the salt flats.

The Ojos are often described as “emerging like an oasis,” and they are a favorite for photographers and nature lovers alike. The intense blue color is particularly striking during the golden hour or sunset.

Tebenquiche Lagoon: Sunset Paints the Scene

After visiting the salt flats, you’ll make your way to Tebenquiche Lagoon, a vast, shallow body of water that stretches across the salt flats. Here, you’ll enjoy an aperitif while soaking in the scenery—an ideal way to unwind after the morning’s activities.

The colors of Tebenquiche at sunset are renowned for their ocher hues, contrasted with the distant Andes mountains. Travelers often comment on how beautiful the landscape becomes as the sun dips, offering a perfect end to the tour.

Return and Reflection

After enjoying the sunset, you’ll head back to San Pedro de Atacama, arriving around five hours after departure. The return trip is a good time to reflect on the spectacular landscapes, the floating salt waters, and the perfectly framed photos you’ve snapped.

Practical Details and Considerations

Price and Value

At $58, this tour offers a reasonable price considering the inclusion of transportation, a guide in two languages, and a local appetizer. The ticket cost of 20,000 Chilean pesos is not included, so budget for that. The value here is in the unique experience of the salt flats and the guided insights that make the trip richer.

Guides and Language

The tour includes a Spanish-speaking guide, with some English service. Based on reviews, guides tend to be knowledgeable, which enhances the experience—making the landscapes come alive with stories and explanations.

Timing and Flexibility

The starting times vary, so check availability ahead of time. It’s important to confirm your reservation to avoid surprises, especially since some reviews mention rescheduling issues. The five-hour duration is manageable for most travelers, fitting nicely into a day of sightseeing.

Potential Drawbacks

A notable concern is the possibility of last-minute rescheduling or cancellations. One review from Roberto mentions a reschedule and then a cancellation, which underscores the importance of confirming your booking and possibly having a backup plan. Weather or operational issues could impact plans, so flexibility is key.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers eager to see iconic salt flat scenery without the more strenuous or lengthy options. It’s great for those who want a short, impactful trip that combines photo-worthy landscapes with the chance to float in high-salinity waters.

It’s particularly suited for photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers looking for a light, guided tour. If you’re interested in local scenery, unique geological features, and authentic desert experiences, this tour is likely to hit the mark.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a rich glimpse into the surreal beauty of the Atacama salt flats, with highlights that include the floatation in Cejar Lagoon, the oasis-like Ojos del Salar, and the breathtaking sunset at Tebenquiche. The inclusion of transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and an appetizer makes it a solid value for the price.

While the potential for rescheduling can be a downside, the overall experience promises stunning views and memorable moments—perfect for those who want to experience the salt flats comfortably and efficiently.

If you’re looking for an authentic, visually stunning escape in northern Chile, this tour provides a carefully curated taste of the desert’s most captivating features. Just remember to confirm your booking and keep a flexible attitude—adventures in the desert can sometimes be a little unpredictable.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about five hours, starting in the morning or early afternoon depending on availability.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation by bus or minibus, a Spanish and English-speaking guide, and an appetizer are included.

Is there an extra cost I need to be aware of?
Yes, tickets cost roughly 20,000 Chilean pesos per person, which is paid separately.

Can I swim in Cejar Lagoon?
Yes, you can bathe in the lagoon and float due to its high salt content—be prepared for the salty sensation.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, sunscreen, water, and your camera. Swimming gear if you want to take a dip.

What happens if the tour is canceled or rescheduled?
Some travelers have experienced rescheduling; it’s best to confirm your booking and be flexible with timings.

In all, this tour provides a well-rounded, visually stunning, and reasonably priced introduction to the salt flats of Atacama. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting a short adventure with big photographic and experiential rewards.

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