The Wonders of Tebenquiche Salt Flats, Ojos del Salar and Laguna Cejar in the Atacama Desert – conventional non 360 video

The Tebenquiche Salt Flats, located near San Pedro de Atacama in the Atacama Desert, are a vast saline plain renowned for their stark white salt crusts set against a backdrop of the Andean mountains. Their formation is a result of millennia of hyper-arid climate, high evaporation, and receding ancient water bodies that left behind rich mineral deposits, including lithium and copper. The stability of these conditions has lasted for hundreds of millions of years, leading scientists to use the area as a model for studying life on Mars.

This extreme environment hosts unique halophilic microorganisms that thrive in high salinity and temperature variations. These resilient organisms contribute to nutrient cycling and the formation of minerals, demonstrating life’s adaptability and providing critical insights for astrobiology. The best time to visit for photography and optimal conditions is typically April to October.

Nearby, the Ojos del Salar (Eyes of the Salt Flat) are two strikingly circular, deep, freshwater lagoons nestled abruptly within the vast, blindingly white Salar de Atacama. They are believed to have formed from a geological collapse or sinking where a low-salinity groundwater source was present, creating two cenotes or sinkholes. This dramatic contrast between the clear, non-saline water and the arid salt crust holds deep cultural significance for the Atacameño people, who revere water sources as a precious gift. 

A visit is best in the early morning or late afternoon to experience the best light, and travelers can reach them via guided tours or by renting a 4×4 vehicle.

Another remarkable site is Laguna Cejar, a hyper-saline lagoon formed during the Pleistocene epoch. Its striking turquoise-blue hue is not from thriving bacteria, but from the surrounding halite deposits reflecting light in the absence of bacterial dyes that are driven underground by the harsh conditions. The lagoon’s mineral-rich waters and high salinity, which create a unique ultra-buoyant swimming experience (allowing visitors to float effortlessly), are influenced by nearby volcanoes like Licancabur and Lascar. Visitors should limit their time in the water due to the high salt content, and the best time to swim is during the warmer months. Both Laguna Cejar and Ojos del Salar are easily accessible from San Pedro de Atacama.