Cejar Lagoon, Ojos del Salar and Tabinquiche Lagoon

Enjoy a unique experience in the heart of the Atacama Desert. We will visit Laguna Cejar, famous for its saltwater pools where you can float effortlessly; the mysterious Ojos del Salar, natural pools in the middle of the desert; and the impressive Laguna Tabinquiche, where the reflections of the sky create dreamlike landscapes. The tour ends with an unforgettable sunset over the Atacama Salt Flat, accompanied by unique colors and contrasts.

📍 Location of the Q’eswachaka Bridge

Community: San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta Region – Chile

Distance from Atacama: approx. 20 km south (about 25 minutes by car)

Altitude: around 2,300 m above sea level

Dimensions:

• Laguna Cejar: approx. 18 hectares, with varying depths exceeding 25 meters in some areas.
• Eyes of the Salt Flat: two circular pools, each approximately 10 meters in diameter.
• Tebenquiche Lagoon: one of the largest lagoons in the salt flat, covering approximately 30 hectares.

🎉 Recognitions

• 📸 2015 – Featured by National Geographic Traveler as one of the 10 most breathtaking landscapes in the world, for its colors, reflections, and unique natural beauty.
• 🌅 2018 – Laguna Tebenquiche was selected by Lonely Planet as one of the best places to watch the sunset in South America, thanks to its perfect reflections of the sky and mountains.
• 💧 2020 – Laguna Cejar was recognized by the international website TripAdvisor as one of the most highly recommended natural experiences in northern Chile, for its unique sensation of floating in hypersaline waters.
• 🪶 2022 – Highlighted by the Chilean National Tourism Service (SERNATUR) as a priority destination for sustainable tourism, in collaboration with the Lickan Antay Indigenous community, which manages part of the territory.

Itinerary – Cejar Lagoon, Salt Flats, and Tabinquiche Lagoon Tour

🏨 Pick-up from your hotel in Atacama

Departure from San Pedro de Atacama heading south, venturing into the Atacama Salt Flat, the largest salt flat in Chile. During the journey, you’ll appreciate the immensity of the desert, surrounded by volcanoes and mountains that frame a unique landscape.

🚐 First stop: Cejar Lagoon

Our first visit will be to Cejar Lagoon, an impressive body of water with an intense turquoise color, famous for its high salt concentration that allows you to float effortlessly. Here you’ll have time to swim, relax, and enjoy the natural surroundings while observing the contrasting tones of the desert and the Andes Mountains.

👁️ Second stop: Ojos del Salar (Eyes of the Salt Flats)

The adventure continues to Ojos del Salar, two circular freshwater pools located in the middle of the desert. These “eyes” are like perfect mirrors reflecting the sky and the mountains of the Altiplano. Here you can enjoy a refreshing swim or simply take stunning photos of the contrast between the dark water and the arid landscape of the salt flats.

🌅 Last stop: Laguna Tebenquiche and sunset

The tour ends at Laguna Tebenquiche, one of the most photogenic lakes in the Atacama Salt Flats. From its shores, you can witness the most magical sunset in the Chilean desert, with the volcanoes reflected in its tranquil waters.

During this time, a snack with wine or pisco sour is offered, ideal for ending the day contemplating the golden and pink hues of the Andean sunset.

🚐 Return to San Pedro de Atacama

After enjoying the sunset, we will return to San Pedro de Atacama. Arrival is scheduled for around 7:00 PM, concluding an unforgettable experience among salt flats, lagoons, and endless skies.

✅ What’s Included in the Tour?

• 🚐 Pick-up from your hotel in San Pedro de Atacama

Punctual service in tourist transportation, valid only for hotels located in San Pedro de Atacama.

• 🚌 Round-trip tourist transportation

Comfortable, safe, and authorized transportation for rural and high-altitude Andean routes, with panoramic windows and ample space for groups.

• 🧭 Professional bilingual tour guide (Spanish/English)

A local guide specializing in Andean culture and Inca history, who accompanies you throughout the tour, explaining archaeological, geographical, and ritual aspects.

• 📸 Stop at the Lagunas de Salar and Ojos del Salar

A stop for photos and observation of a unique geological formation, with views of the Altiplano and native wildlife.

• 🛟 Ongoing assistance throughout the tour

Support from the team of guides and drivers should you need anything during the trip.

❌ What’s not included?

• 💼 Travel insurance or personal insurance

Medical assistance is not included. It is recommended that you purchase your own travel insurance.

• 🍬 Lunch and snacks.

It is recommended that you bring your own water, dried fruit, or additional snacks if you would like something during the trip.

• 🏞️ Entrance fees

The entrance fee is 21,000 Chilean pesos, payable in cash at the entrance to the attractions.

• 💸 Voluntary tips for guides or the community

Tips are not mandatory, but they are a very welcome gesture of appreciation from the local team and host families.

• 🧥 Personal items (raincoat, sunscreen, hat, etc.)

The tour does not include personal items. We suggest bringing a backpack with everything you need for the day.

• 📷 Photography equipment or personal cameras

No multimedia equipment is provided. Visitors must bring their own cell phone, camera, or drone if they wish to take photos or videos.

🌟 Recommendations

🧣 Dress in layers
During the trek, you’ll be traveling between 3,500 and 4,000 meters above sea level. Wear comfortable clothing, a windbreaker, lightweight gloves, and a scarf or Andean hat.

👟 Comfortable shoes with non-slip soles
Some sections may have loose soil or rocks. Good hiking shoes or lightweight trekking boots will make all the difference.

🌞 Sun and eye protection
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Solar radiation at this altitude can be strong, even on cloudy days.

🧴 Hydration and personal snacks
Although the tour includes breakfast and lunch, it’s recommended to bring a water bottle, nuts, or energy bars for the hike.

📸 Camera with sufficient battery and memory
This tour offers numerous photo opportunities, from Andean landscapes to cultural portraits by the bridge.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is swimming allowed in the lagoons visited on this tour?

Swimming is only permitted in Laguna Piedra.

What is the maximum altitude reached on this tour?

The maximum altitude reached is similar to that of San Pedro de Atacama (2400 m), so this tour does not require prior acclimatization.

What days of the year does this tour run?

This tour runs every day of the year, except for January 1st and December 25th.

What type of vehicle is used for this activity?

The vehicle will depend on the size of the group, and may be a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (or similar) for 12 to 18 people.

How far in advance should I book the activity?

We accept reservations up to 48 hours in advance. However, spaces are limited and always subject to availability, so we recommend booking as far in advance as possible.