In short
- Water salt levels make sinking physically impossible.
- Never submerge your head or splash your eyes.
- Limit swimming to 30 minutes to protect your skin.
In this article
Visitors to the Laguna Cejar complex swim in Laguna Piedra. The extreme salt concentration creates a weightless sensation. You float effortlessly on the surface of the water in the middle of the world's driest desert. Knowing how to handle the salt will keep your visit comfortable.
Why do you float so easily in Laguna Piedra?
The lagoon has a higher salt concentration than the Dead Sea.
The extreme salinity increases the density of the water. This provides intense buoyancy. When you enter Laguna Piedra, your body naturally pushes to the surface, making it impossible to sink.
What does floating in Laguna Piedra feel like?
You feel completely weightless, bobbing on the surface like a cork.
You will not need to tread water. Simply lean back, and the water supports your entire body weight. The floor of the lagoon is covered in sharp salt crystals, so you will want to lift your feet quickly after entering.
Can you put your head under the water?
No, you must never submerge your head.
The hypersaline water will painfully burn your eyes if it touches them. Keep your head above water at all times. Float on your back and avoid splashing other swimmers.
How does the salt affect your skin?
The high salt content causes rapid and severe skin dehydration.
Limit your time in the water to 20 or 30 minutes. Do not shave on the day of your visit. The salt will severely sting any fresh razor nicks or cuts. Bring moisturizing lotion to apply after your visit.
Do you need to shower after floating?
Yes, you must wash off immediately in the provided freshwater showers.
If you let the salt water dry, a thick, white layer of salt will crystallize on your skin. The Solor Community provides showers at the entrance complex. You have a strict 1-hour time limit inside the complex, so plan your shower time accordingly.
What should you wear to swim in Laguna Piedra?
Wear a swimsuit, flip flops or water shoes, and plenty of sunscreen.
Put your swimsuit on under your clothes before you arrive to save time. Water shoes protect your feet from the sharp salt bottom. Apply sunscreen well in advance so it fully absorbs before you enter the water.
Questions travellers ask
Can you open your eyes underwater in the salt lagoons?
No. Doing so will cause painful burning due to the extreme salt levels. Keep your head completely above the surface and do not splash.
What happens if you shave before going to Laguna Cejar?
The hypersaline water will severely sting any razor nicks, cuts, or freshly shaved skin. Avoid shaving the day of your tour.
Is the Laguna Cejar tour safe for children?
Yes, children can visit, but they must follow strict rules not to splash or dunk their heads. The entrance fee for children aged 0-12 is CLP 5,000.
