Audio Guide of Laguna Cejar

The lagoon is open every day from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in summer and until 6:00 p.m. in winter. It is located 22 km from the town (30 minutes by car). Access is via an unpaved road; I recommend going in a high-clearance vehicle or with an organized tour. More info on the CONAF website.

General admission for foreign visitors costs about CLP 20,000 (approx. USD 25), while Chileans pay CLP 8,000. Children and seniors have reduced rates (bring ID). Prices may vary during high season. Check updates at sanpedroatacama.com.

Allow 2–3 hours to float in the salty waters, take photos with the volcanoes in the background, and walk the trails. If you include the Lagunita Escondida viewpoint and time to change clothes, add 1 extra hour.

Its water has 40% salinity—more than the Dead Sea—allowing you to float effortlessly. It is part of the Atacama Salt Flat, a key habitat for flamingos and an ecosystem protected by the Lickanantay communities, who consider the area sacred.

The ideal time is 4:00–6:00 p.m.: you avoid the strong sun and enjoy sunset, when the waters reflect pink tones. The best season is September to April (warmer days). In summer it rains in the afternoons, so the morning is a safer option.

The main access has nearby parking, but the final stretch is uneven sand and stones. There are accessible viewpoints, but entering the water requires crossing 50 meters of difficult terrain. I recommend calling +56 9 1234 5678 for specific assistance.

Five minutes away is Ojos del Salar (two crystal-clear pools), and 15 km away is Tebinquinche Lagoon, famous for its reflections. Complete your day with a nighttime astronomy tour. Combined tours at AtacamaTika.

Essential items: swimsuit, towel, drinking water (none is sold on site), water shoes because of the salt crystals, and sunscreen. There are no showers: bring wet wipes and plan where to wash afterward (the salt residue is sticky).