In short
- Guided tours cost 30,000 to 50,000 CLP and provide transport and drinks.
- Driving takes 30 to 45 minutes via Route CH-23 and Route B-355.
- The site is 28 kilometers (17.4 miles) south of San Pedro de Atacama.
In this article
Choosing how to get to Laguna Cejar depends on your budget and driving comfort. Most visitors opt for a half-day guided tour departing in the mid-afternoon. If you prefer to set your own schedule, driving is straightforward, though the final stretch involves a gravel road.
Should I book a guided tour to Laguna Cejar?
Booking a guided tour is the most convenient way to visit the lagoons.
Tours depart from San Pedro de Atacama in the mid-afternoon and last 4 to 5 hours. They usually include hotel pickup, a bilingual guide, and sunset cocktails at Laguna Tebinquinche. Prices range from 30,000 to 50,000 CLP. Note that entrance fees to the lagoons are typically not included in the base price.
How do I drive to Laguna Cejar?
Drive south from San Pedro de Atacama on Route CH-23, then turn onto Route B-355.
The drive takes 30 to 45 minutes. Route B-355 is a marked dirt road leading toward the salt flat. The final 8 kilometers (5 miles) are unpaved but well-maintained gravel. You do not strictly need a 4x4 vehicle, but you should drive carefully.
Can I bike to the lagoons?
Yes, you can rent a mountain bike, but it is only recommended for experienced cyclists.
The route covers 28 kilometers (17.4 miles) and takes 2 to 3 hours one way. Bike rentals in San Pedro de Atacama cost 10,000 to 15,000 CLP. The intense desert sun, high altitude of 2,400 meters (7,870 feet), and rough, dusty return trip in the dark make this a challenging ride.
How far is Laguna Cejar from San Pedro de Atacama?
The Laguna Cejar complex is 28 kilometers (17.4 miles) south of town.
This distance makes it an easy half-day trip. You will spend roughly a third of your tour time traveling. The close proximity allows tours to depart mid-afternoon, timing the final stop at Laguna Tebinquinche perfectly for sunset.
What are the road conditions like?
The main highway is paved, but the final access road is gravel.
Route CH-23 provides a smooth, paved start to the journey. Once you turn onto Route B-355, the surface changes to dirt. The final 8 kilometers require careful driving on well-maintained gravel, but standard rental cars can make the trip safely.
Do tours include hotel pickup?
Yes, most guided tours include pickup from hotels in San Pedro de Atacama.
Operators typically collect you from your accommodation in the mid-afternoon. Some companies restrict pickups from outlying neighborhoods like Ayllu, Coto, or Solcor. Always check your specific booking details to confirm the meeting point.
Questions travellers ask
Do you need a tour to visit Laguna Cejar?
No. You can drive a rental car or ride a mountain bike to the lagoons and pay the entrance fees directly at the gate.
How long is the drive to Laguna Cejar?
The drive from San Pedro de Atacama takes 30 to 45 minutes depending on your vehicle and driving speed on the gravel sections.
Is a 4x4 required to drive to Laguna Cejar?
No. A 4x4 vehicle is not strictly required. The last 8 kilometers are unpaved gravel, but the road is well-maintained.
