The Hidden Lagoons of the Atacama Desert
The Hidden Lagoons of Baltinache, also known as Lagunas Escondidas de Baltinache, are an extraordinary feature in the Atacama Desert. Found in the Cordillera del Sal, these lagoons emerge amidst the desert terrain with vibrant hues, ranging from turquoise to emerald green.
At certain times of the year, the intense colors change and you can see the salt crystals at the bottom of the lagoons going from orange to blue, like in a surrealist painting.
Here’s what the climate in the Atacama Desert
How to visit the Hidden Lagoons of Baltinache
As with the other tours in the Atacama, each agency offers a different route to the Hidden Lagoons of Baltinache and different experiences. The Tour with FlaviaBia which is our recommendation for your trip, has several details that make a difference to your trip.
At Hidden Lagoons, FlaviaBia prepares a delicious table with typical food, appetizers and a delicious wine to accompany and toast the day of the trip. She also has a guide to explain the formations of this region.
The most incredible thing is that the Hidden Lagoons of Baltinache seem to change throughout the year. We’ve had the opportunity to visit them a few times and we’re always amazed by the colors and formations of each one.
In addition to all the support Flavia offers on this tour, the day’s experience doesn’t end there. The Hidden Lagoons of Baltinache route continues on to the enigmatic desert Bus, which has become an attraction in the Atacama and provides beautiful photos to round off the day.
As with Laguna Cejar, in the Hidden Lagoons of Baltinache you can also float effortlessly. The high concentration of salt in the water makes this magical experience possible and it deserves to be part of your Atacama itinerary.
It’s worth noting that not all the lagoons allow swimming, so always follow the signs and your guide’s instructions. The entire path between each of the lagoons is marked out and must be respected for the preservation of this place.
It’s important to remember that several points in the Atacama, such as the Laguna Tebinquiche for example, are fragile in nature and if contact with them is not controlled, they could simply be lost over time.
With the large number of travelers arriving in the desert, this care in each place must always come first. It’s not just a matter of an isolated attitude, but of everyone traveling together and cherishing nature.
Information about the Hidden Lagoons
Just like the Valle de la Luna and other parts of the Atacama Desert, the entrance to the Hidden Lagoons of Baltinache is not normally included in the price of the tours charged by the agencies. This entrance fee must be paid in Chilean pesos.
Park entrance fee: $ 5,000 CLP per person
To avoid unforeseen circumstances, always check with your agency about entrance fees and payment methods, as the price can change without notice.
The Hidden Lagoons of Baltinache can be considered an easy hike. You will leave early for the tour and only return in the late afternoon, so you can consider this a full-day tour on your itinerary.
Tips for enjoying the Lagunas Escondidas tour
As it’s not a very high altitude walk, it’s around 2.500m, including the Hidden Lagoons of Baltinache in the first few days of your trip is a great idea.
Remember that this is a region that tends to heat up during the day, especially in the non-winter months. Be prepared for a light walk in the intense sunshine.
When you go floating in the lagoon, be careful with the water in your eyes and hair, as the concentration of salt in the water is very high.
- We even recommend that you take a bottle of water with you to wash your body and remove some of the salt that remains after swimming in the Hidden Lagoons of Baltinache. Getting salt on your body can irritate your skin or cause some discomfort.
- The use of sunscreen is important, but it is recommended that you apply it while still in your hotel, so that your body absorbs it well and it doesn’t come off in the water. Avoid using oily sunscreens.
Photos of Atacama's Hidden Lagoons
Which agency to hire in Atacama
We always recommend that you book your tours with registered and well-rated agencies. Our suggestion for your trip is FlaviaBia Expediciones, an agency we’ve known since it began operations and which has an excellent track record in terms of traveler satisfaction.
If you value a good experience and are looking for tours without a large number of people, with comfortable and safe cars and, of course, professional guides, this is one of the best alternatives for your trip.
We recommend FlaviaBia's work transparently. We know the work closely and have already done all the activities offered, testing and guaranteeing the quality of the service.
You can contact the agency directly using the form and receive all the information you need for your trip.
The FlaviaBia Expediciones agency was created by Brazilian Flavia, who raised her family in the desert and today is a benchmark for quality service in San Pedro de Atacama.
Travelers who have already visited the Hidden Lagoons
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