Santiago, November 5, 2026. The temporary ban on swimming and floating in the Hidden Lagoons of Baltinache, one of the main tourist attractions around San Pedro de Atacama, coincides with a significant drop in tourist reservations recorded by the leading online booking portal for tours and tourism programs in Latin America, Nomades.com. Since the new regulations came into effect on September 29 and through October 31, the number of people who booked this activity fell 52.3% compared to the same period the previous year. Although these figures do not represent the total number of visitors to this destination, they provide an important reference on the impact of the restrictions in this popular tourist destination in the Antofagasta Region.

The measures, announced as part of maintenance and regeneration efforts for the natural environment, modify one of the experiences that visitors could previously enjoy: swimming and floating in the lagoons. This ban is expected to last until the end of this November, though it could be extended depending on the pace of water regeneration.

Data from Nomades show a clear reduction in demand during the implementation of the restriction. And several local agencies contacted confirm the shift in trend, noting that many travelers specifically ask if swimming is still allowed and, when informed that it's currently not possible, prefer to choose other tours instead.

Annual figures show declining demand. Reservations for Baltinache dropped 21% over 4 years (2023-2025)

The drop observed following the suspension occurs in a context where reservations recorded on Nomades had already experienced fluctuations in recent years. In 2023, the platform counted 3,197 reservations and 6,387 passengers for this activity. In 2024, figures fell to 2,670 reservations and 5,430 passengers, while in 2025 there were 2,523 reservations and 5,256 passengers.

This evolution serves as global context for analyzing recent behavior, but it's important to distinguish between both trends: the year-over-year comparison describes changes in demand over several years, while the 52.3% drop in passengers corresponds specifically to the period following the implementation of the suspension, compared to the same dates the previous year. Nomades records reflect only reservations managed through its platform and do not represent the total number of visitors Baltinache receives, though they do represent an important portion that provides a solid reference.

Maintenance, regulation, and responsible decisions: keys to protecting natural destinations like Baltinache

The case of Baltinache reminds us that preserving a destination depends not only on its tourist appeal, but also on how the activities conducted there are organized and managed. One of the main culprits behind the deterioration and the evident color change observed in the lagoon has been the misuse of sunscreen, creams, oils, and other cosmetic products before entering the water. Although for years it has been explicitly recommended not to use these types of products before swimming and to do so at least 2 hours beforehand, not all visitors follow these guidelines. Over time and considering the large number of people entering daily, these residues end up affecting the water quality and appearance, contributing to the current deterioration of this natural space. Because these lagoons are small and have a delicate ecosystem, they are especially vulnerable to this type of pollution.

The use of sunscreen, creams, and cosmetics, the main culprits behind the degradation of Baltinache Lagoons.

For Nomades, the debate also highlights the importance of distinguishing between operators working in compliance with applicable requirements and informal activities that may operate outside established controls. José Puentes, commercial manager of Nomades, points out that "when a natural destination gains popularity, the responsibility of all actors involved in its tourism activity also increases. The goal cannot be solely to bring more travelers to a place, but to ensure that visits are conducted in respect of the rules, quotas, and conditions established by those responsible. That's why it's important for travelers to choose formal services, inform themselves before booking, and understand that at certain times, the best way to enjoy a destination is to respect the restrictions necessary for its conservation".

The best way to enjoy a destination is to respect the restrictions necessary for its conservation.

In this regard, Nomades believes that transparent information and responsible selection of excursions are important elements for promoting tourism compatible with the conservation of natural spaces. Collaboration between administrations, operators, local communities, and travelers is essential for destinations to continue receiving visitors without losing the environmental values that make them unique.

Recommendations for tourism that contributes to the conservation of natural spaces

  • Check official restrictions before booking. Verify whether there are temporary closures, access limitations, or prohibitions on certain activities. In the case of Baltinache, it's important to verify the conditions in effect during the announced maintenance period and not assume that the restriction will automatically end on a specific date.
  • Choose operators that meet applicable requirements. Verify that the excursion is offered under the conditions required by the competent authorities and that the provider clearly informs about the site's rules, schedules, access points, and permitted activities.
  • Respect quotas and instructions from responsible staff. Access limits and restrictions must be followed even when demand is high or the traveler has planned their itinerary in advance.
  • Do not enter restricted areas or engage in prohibited activities. Do not swim, float, walk outside authorized trails, or alter the environment when site rules prohibit it. Specific instructions for each destination must take precedence over general recommendations.
  • Avoid leaving waste or altering the environment. Taking out trash, not removing natural elements, and respecting wildlife, vegetation, and geological formations are basic practices to reduce the impact of visits.
  • Plan ahead. Booking in advance helps tourism agencies organize quotas. Additionally, reservations through verified portals like Nomades.com allow cancellations with full refunds, so there's no reason to leave it for the last minute.