Excursion: Lagoon + National Reserve of Salinas in Arequipa

Arequipa’s Lagoon and National Reserve of Salinas offer an exhilarating 7-hour adventure. Departing at 6 AM, visitors will enjoy a delicious breakfast, marvel at stunning viewpoints, and explore the captivating salt flats and lagoon. With the chance to witness unique reflections and local wildlife, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. But there’s more to uncover as you delve deeper into the region’s natural wonders.

Key Points

• The excursion offers a visit to the Salinas National Reserve and Salinas Lagoon near Arequipa, lasting 7 hours with an early 6 AM departure.
• The tour includes panoramic views at the Mirador de los Volcanes, exploration of the extensive salt flat, and observation of Andean wildlife.
• Guests can optionally soak in mini hot springs and enjoy a breakfast stop at Chiguata during the tour.
• The excursion is led by English and Spanish-speaking guides, with transportation, entrance fees, and meals provided.
• Flexible booking options are available, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Excursion

The excursion to the Salinas in Arequipa offers visitors a chance to explore the expansive salt flat and the picturesque Salinas Lagoon, along with the opportunity to observe a variety of camelids and high Andean birds.

Lasting 7 hours, the tour departs at 6 AM and includes a stop at the Chiguata viewpoint, time for photography at the salt flat, and a visit to the Salinas Lagoon. Guests can also opt for a soak in the mini hot springs.

The excursion is led by an English and Spanish-speaking guide and includes transportation, entrance fees, and breakfast.

Itinerary for the Day

The excursion begins with an early 6:00 AM departure to Salinas.

Departing at the crack of dawn, the excursion sets out for the picturesque town of Salinas.

At 7:30 AM, the group arrives at Chiguata for breakfast.

Then, they stop at the Mirador de los Volcanes, a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the volcanoes.

By 10:00 AM, they reach the extensive salt flat of the Salinas Reserve, where they’ll explore the saltpeter production site and take photographs.

Next, they visit the Salinas Lagoon to see the water mirrors and reflection effects.

An optional stop at the mini hot springs follows before the return trip to Arequipa, arriving back in the city around 1:30 PM.

Highlights of the Tour

Panoramic views of the majestic volcanoes await visitors at the Mirador de los Volcanes viewpoint.

Next, explore the extensive salt flat behind PichuPichu. The sparkling white salt flats make for stunning photography.

At the Salinas Lagoon, witness the remarkable water mirrors and reflection effects.

Observe the fascinating camelids and high Andean birds at the dedicated reserve.

For those interested, there’s an optional visit to mini hot springs.

This excursion immerses guests in the incredible natural landscapes and wildlife of the Salinas National Reserve in Arequipa.

Inclusions and Amenities

This excursion includes an English/Spanish guide to provide live commentary, as well as tourist transportation for the entire trip.

Permanent assistance is provided throughout the day. Hotel pickup is included for centrally located accommodations.

Entrance fees to the Salinas National Reserve are covered, which is 10 soles per person. Food is also provided during the tour.

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Booking Information and Availability

To check availability and make a booking, simply visit the tour operator’s website or contact them directly.

Customers can easily select the desired date and number of participants. The meeting point location will be provided on Google Maps, making it easy for travelers to find the starting point.

Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Plus, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund if plans change.

With straightforward booking and flexible policies, this excursion is convenient for all types of travelers.

Exploring the Chiguata Viewpoint

As visitors approach Chiguata, they’re greeted by a stunning panoramic viewpoint that offers a breathtaking vista of the surrounding volcanoes.

From this elevated vantage point, guests can gaze upon the majestic snow-capped peaks of Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu, which rise majestically against the clear Andean sky.

The Chiguata viewpoint provides an ideal opportunity for visitors to capture remarkable photographs and soak in the beauty of the region’s natural wonders.

It’s a must-see stop on the Salinas excursion, setting the stage for the exploration of the extensive salt flats and tranquil lagoon that await.

Discovering the Salinas Salt Flat

After admiring the sweeping vistas from the Chiguata viewpoint, the excursion continues towards the extensive salt flat of the Salinas National Reserve.

Here, visitors can explore the vast, shimmering expanse of salt left by the evaporation of an ancient lake. The salt flat is a photographer’s delight, with its mesmerizing patterns and reflective surfaces.

Visitors can:

• Walk on the salt crust and marvel at the crunch underfoot

• Capture stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains

• Observe the salt extraction process and learn about its history

• Spot migratory birds resting on the salt ponds

• Appreciate the stark, otherworldly beauty of this unique landscape.

Observing Wildlife at the Salinas Lagoon

Next, the excursion moves on to the Salinas Lagoon. Here, visitors can observe the diverse wildlife that thrives in this unique environment. The lagoon is home to a variety of camelids, including llamas and alpacas, as well as numerous species of high Andean birds. Visitors can wander through the Camelid and High Andean Bird Reserve, spotting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

| Animal | Description | Habitat |

| — | — | — |

| Llama | Tall, long-necked camelid | Grasslands and high-altitude areas |

| Alpaca | Smaller, woolly camelid | Mountainous regions |

| Andean Flamingo | Vibrant pink water bird | Shallow lakes and lagoons |

Things To Know

What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for the Excursion?

The excursion doesn’t specify a minimum group size. Travelers can book this tour individually or with a group, as it’s designed to accommodate both solo travelers and small groups. The tour operator provides pick-up and transportation services regardless of the group size.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes breakfast, but visitors are welcome to pack additional snacks or beverages if they prefer.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Child Policies?

There are no age restrictions on the tour. Children are welcome, though they’ll need to pay the same rate as adults. The tour is family-friendly and designed to accommodate all ages.

Can I Extend My Stay at the Salinas National Reserve?

The excursion does not include the option to extend your stay at the Salinas National Reserve. The tour has a fixed itinerary and departure time to return to Arequipa, so additional time there isn’t offered.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

Yes, there’s an option to upgrade to a private tour. Customers can request a private tour for more personalized attention and flexibility during their visit to the Salinas National Reserve.

Sum Up

The Excursion to the Lagoon and National Reserve of Salinas in Arequipa offers a captivating 7-hour adventure. Participants will enjoy a delightful breakfast, marvel at panoramic views, and explore the stunning salt flats and picturesque Salinas Lagoon. An optional soak in mini hot springs adds a relaxing touch, making this tour a truly memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: