Hidden lagoons of Baltinache, a mysterious location in San Pedro de Atacama

The hidden lagoons of Baltinache are located 50 minutes from San Pedro de Atacama. These water sources create an astonishing landscape in the middle of the driest desert in the world.

The Antofagasta Region has beautiful beaches that are remains of the golden years of saltpeter, and amazing locations that could only be found in the surprising Atacama desert.

The principal tourist area is San Pedro de Atacama, a magical town where you can visit a wide variety of attractions. Among the most visited places are the impressive Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna), the Tatio Geysers (Geysers del Tatio), the Cejar Lagoon (Laguna Cejar), and the relaxing Puritama Hot Springs (Termas de Puritama).

Furthermore, it has the best clear sky to stargaze.

Nevertheless, one of the best-kept secrets is the hidden lagoons of Baltinache.

Discover the hidden lagoons of Baltinache

Photo: Sernatur Audiovisual Bank.

Located in the southern watershed of the Atacama Salt Flat (Salar de Atacama), the hidden lagoons of Baltinache are seven pools of turquoise waters, which, in contrast with the whiteness of the Cordillera de la Sal Mountain Range make this landscape a unique place.

Due to the high concentration of salt in the lagoons, your body will float effortlessly. Only the first and last pools are suitable for bathing, whereas the others are protected to maintain their beautiful shapes.

Of Cretaceous origin, the hidden lagoons of Baltinache are located at 2,450 meters above sea level (masl), so you do not need previous acclimation to visit them. Depending on the seasonal rainfall, its extension can vary from 3 to 30 meters in diameter.

How to get to the hidden lagoons of Baltinache

To get to the hidden lagoons of Baltinache from San Pedro de Atacama, you will have to take Ruta 23 towards Calama and travel 10 kilometers to the intersection at Ruta B 241, which leads to the Llano de la Paciencia plain.

From there, it is 10 km along the gravel road, so you must go in a 4×4 vehicle or similar. If you travel on your own accord, it is important to carry a spare tire.

It will take you approximately 50 minutes. To go in, you have to pay an amount to the Community of Coyo from Atacama, whose prices are as follows at the time of writing this blog:

• General public: CLP $10,000
• Children over 5 and under 14: CLP $5,000
• Children under 4: FREE
• Students: CLP $5,000
• Older adults (over 60): CLP $3,000
• Lickanantay (Atacama people): CLP $2,000
• Another ethnic group: CLP $2,000

You can buy your tickets at the following link.

Tips before visiting the Lagoons of Baltinache

Photo: @naiaracristinacristofolini

• For your trip to the hidden lagoons of Baltinache, prefer a tourist service registered with Sernatur. Check out the list of registered operators at the following link.
• We recommend you wear proper shoes, a hat, sunglasses, a bathing suit, a towel, sandals, comfortable clothing, and cash. Use sunscreen after bathing so as not to contaminate the lagoons.
• And do not forget to carry drinking water, both for drinking and for cleaning yourself immediately after bathing to avoid salt itchiness.