Laguna Cejar Guide
Laguna Cejar: Defy Gravity in the Atacama's Salty Embrace Guide
Prepare for an unforgettable floating experience at Laguna Cejar, a stunning salt lagoon located near San Pedro de Atacama. Like Ojos del Salar, Laguna Cejar boasts an incredibly high salt concentration, allowing you to effortlessly float on its surface. The vibrant turquoise waters, set against the backdrop of the stark desert landscape, create a truly surreal and breathtaking scene. It's a must-do for anyone visiting the Atacama! Laguna Cejar's high salinity is a result of the arid climate and the evaporation of water over time, leaving behind concentrated minerals. While the lagoon itself doesn't have a specific historical significance, it's a testament to the geological processes that have shaped the Atacama Desert over millions of years. The surrounding landscape, with its salt flats and volcanic peaks, adds to the dramatic beauty of the area. The main activity at Laguna Cejar is, without a doubt, floating! The sensation of weightlessness is incredible. Be sure to bring your swimsuit, towel, and flip-flops. There are changing rooms and showers available to rinse off the salt after your swim. Many tours to Laguna Cejar also include visits to nearby attractions like Laguna Tebinquinche, known for its stunning sunset reflections, and Ojos del Salar. Remember to protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The water can be quite cold, so be prepared for a refreshing dip!
Transportation
The most common way to visit Laguna Cejar is by joining a tour from San Pedro de Atacama. Numerous tour operators offer afternoon excursions that include transportation. Alternatively, you can rent a car, but be aware that the road is unpaved for a portion of the journey. From San Pedro, head west on the road towards Calama (Route 23). After approximately 15 kilometers, turn south onto a dirt road signposted for Laguna Cejar. The drive takes around 30-45 minutes.