Set amidst the surreal landscapes of Chile's Atacama Desert, the vista of nature at Salt Lake Lejia (Laguna Lejía) presents its picture-postcard view.

This saline lake, with volcanic peaks and no-man's-land arid plains as its surroundings, is perennially reflecting the iridescent colors of the desert's sky unreal and phantasmagoric display of vigor.

A Desert Oasis

Salina Lejia Salt Lake is shallow, fed by underground springs. This high mineral concentration in the water creates this lake's unique pink color most visibly at sunset. The large contrasts in its surroundings take in rugged volcanic formations, sandy dunes, and salt flats. Salina Lejia is this surreal lake that provides a dramatic and otherworldly backdrop.

While Salt Lake Lejia is small in size, its most striking feature happens to be the reflection of the sky. On a windless day, the surface of the lake becomes so still that it almost acts like a mirror. During sunset, the colors go bright pink. The result is a breathtaking scene of a pink lake surrounded by a sky of fire, all combined in an almost surreal way.

Wildlife and Flora

Despite the extreme condition of the Atacama Desert, a lot of wild life and flora houses in the surroundings of Salt Lake Lejia. Flamingos, vicuñas, and alpacas are often seen around. Besides that, the lake contains a number of microorganisms and algae to give it its color.

Visiting Salt Lake Lejia

Lejia Salt Lake is located in the Atacama Desert, about 100 kilometers south of San Pedro de Atacama. It is advisable to make a visit during spring and autumn-that is, between September and November and between March and May-when the climate is soft, skies are clear, and ideal for the road.

You can get to Salt Lake Lejia by either taking your car or a guided tour from San Pedro de Atacama. Access on foot or by horseback allows a very intimate experience in the area.

Entry Fees and Permits:

Entrance Fee: There is no official entrance fee to visit Salt Lake Lejia. However, you may need to pay a park entrance fee if you are visiting the Atacama Desert National Park.

Guided Tours: If you choose to join a guided tour, the cost will typically include transportation, a guide, and entrance fees. Prices for guided tours can vary depending on the tour operator and the duration of the tour.

Among the best-kept secrets within the Atacama Desert, nature can be found in full splendor at the Salina of Lejia. The pink-colored shallow salt lake perfectly reflects the sky, giving life to a surreal scene that will make every visit an unforgettable experience. Whether you are looking for a place to love nature, take pictures, or have a simple desire to enjoy an adventure out of the ordinary, the Salina of Lejia is the place to consider.