Float effortlessly in the emerald Cejar lagoon, visit freshwater "eyes" in the Salar, and watch the Andes reflect off Tebinquinche. This semi-private afternoon tour from San Pedro de Atacama blends easy swims, short walks and high-desert scenery.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Late-afternoon light cuts across a pale salt plain; wind files grains of salt like tiny hammers, and the emerald of Laguna Cejar dares you to float. On this semi-private circuit from San Pedro de Atacama you move between three distinct water bodies — a buoyant high-salinity pool, fragile freshwater eyes, and a broad salt-scarred lagoon that mirrors the Andes.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Light fitness required: short flat walks, getting in/out of vehicles, and brief swims; altitude can make exertion feel harder.
Wildlife
History
The Atacameño people have long used local water sources and salt pans; nearby settlements and ruins reflect a pattern of resilient high-desert life.
Conservation
High-altitude wetlands here are ecologically sensitive — avoid soaps and lotions in water, pack out waste, and follow guide instructions to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Small-Group tour to Laguna Cejar, Ojos del Salar and Laguna Tebinquinche today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Hydrate and acclimatize
Spend at least a day in San Pedro to adjust to ~2,300 m altitude and drink water before and during the tour.
Sun protection is vital
Bring high-SPF sunscreen, wide-brim hat and UV sunglasses — solar radiation is intense on the salt plain.
Limit your swim time
Float in Laguna Cejar is usually limited to ~30 minutes; avoid shaving or applying lotions before entering water to protect the lagoon.
Footwear for salt crusts
Wear closed shoes for walks around Tebinquinche; salt crusts are sharp and can damage bare feet.
Swimsuit under clothes
Wear it under your clothes to be ready for the Cejar float without changing on-site.
High-SPF sunscreen
Protects skin from intense UV reflected off salt and water.
summer
Closed walking shoes
Protects feet on salt-crusted shorelines and small walks at Tebinquinche.
Light insulating layer (fleece/jacket)
Temperatures drop quickly after sunset and winds off the plain are cold.
winter