Turquoise pool surrounded by white salt flats and desert mountains.

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Nearby Excursions

Most full-day tours combine the salt flats with surrounding high-altitude attractions.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

Guided excursions usually start at Laguna Chaxa and continue south. You will climb higher into the Andes to see volcanic rock formations, oasis towns, and deep blue lakes.

Woman taking a photo of a brilliant turquoise pool in a desert landscape.

Toconao Village

30 minutes

This small oasis town features historical colonial architecture built from local liparite stone. You can observe the historic San Lucas bell tower in the main square. Stop here to buy local artisan crafts.

Tour group standing on a wooden boardwalk near a salt lake.

Altiplanic Lagoons (Miscanti and Miñiques)

1-2 hours4,200m altitude

These deep blue lakes sit further south, framed by snow-capped volcanoes. They are located at a much higher elevation of 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). Pace yourself while walking here to avoid altitude sickness.

Piedras Rojas (Red Rocks)

1 hourWindy and cold

This area features bright red volcanic rocks bordering the aqua waters of Salar de Talar. It is often the furthest point on a full-day southern tour. Prepare for extremely windy and cold conditions at this location.