Laguna Cejar: Float in the Atacama Desert

Laguna Cejar is a sinkhole lake nestled within the Salar de Atacama, Chile's largest salt flat. Situated approximately 28 km from San Pedro de Atacama, this lagoon is renowned for its exceptionally high salt concentration, ranging from 5% to 28%, rivaling and even surpassing the Dead Sea in certain areas. This extreme salinity allows visitors to float effortlessly on the surface, providing a unique and unforgettable swimming experience.The landscape surrounding Laguna Cejar is characterized by its stark beauty. The water boasts an intense turquoise hue, contrasting with the bright white salt crust that lines the edges of the lagoon. In the distance, the imposing silhouettes of volcanoes like Licancabur, Acamarachi, and Láscar dominate the horizon, adding to the otherworldly atmosphere. The topography of the Salar de Atacama itself is quite rough due to years of evaporation and infrequent surface water.While Laguna Cejar is a highlight, many tours also include visits to nearby attractions such as Laguna Piedra, Ojos del Salar, and Laguna Tebinquinche. Laguna Piedra offers another opportunity for swimming in highly saline waters, while the Ojos del Salar are two deep, freshwater sinkholes. Laguna Tebinquinche is known for its stunning sunsets, where the reflection of the sky on the water creates a breathtaking spectacle.Visiting Laguna Cejar is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique landscape of the Atacama Desert and experience the unusual sensation of floating in its highly concentrated salt water.