Arequipa: Excursion to Salinas Lagoon || All Day ||

Arequipa’s Salinas Lagoon offers a captivating day-long excursion that showcases the region’s natural beauty. Visitors can marvel at the vibrant flora and fauna set against the backdrop of the majestic Misti volcano. From exploring the Andean forest to spotting flamingos, alpacas, and llamas, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience. With hotel pickup, a continental breakfast, and a guided exploration, travelers can enjoy the lagoon’s stunning landscapes. What makes this excursion truly unique, however, is…

Key Points

• Full-day excursion from Arequipa to explore the vibrant flora and fauna of the Salinas Lagoon, a natural wonder nestled high in the Andes.
• Includes a continental breakfast stop at Chiguata village, sightseeing of Misti volcano, Andean forest, and opportunities to observe alpacas and llamas.
• Guided by English and Spanish-speaking professionals, with hotel pickup and bus transportation provided.
• Visitors can learn about the geological history of the active Misti volcano and the adaptive capabilities of the lagoon’s diverse wildlife.
• Exclusions include meals, travel insurance, and entrance fees, and the excursion is not suitable for children under 3 or adults over 70.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Excursion Overview

The excursion to Salinas Lagoon in Arequipa offers visitors a chance to explore a unique and picturesque natural wonder.

This full-day activity includes a visit to the salt lagoon, where you’ll witness the vibrant flora and fauna. Along the way, you’ll stop at the Chiguata village for a continental breakfast.

The tour also takes you to see the Misti volcano, the Andean forest, and herds of alpacas and llamas.

With an English and Spanish-speaking guide, this excursion promises an immersive experience in the stunning landscapes of southern Peru.

Itinerary and Schedule

After pickup from hotels in Arequipa between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m., the excursion begins with a stop in the Chiguata village for a continental breakfast.

The excursion begins with a stop in the Chiguata village for a continental breakfast after pickup from hotels in Arequipa between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m.

The tour then visits several attractions:

1. Salinas Lagoon, where visitors can spot flamingos, alpacas, and llamas.

2. Misti volcano, one of the 10 active volcanoes in the region.

3. Andean forest, home to the unique queñuales trees.

4. Return to Arequipa around 4:30 p.m. near the Plaza de Armas.

Salinas Lagoon: A Natural Wonder

Nestled high in the Andes mountains, the Salinas Lagoon stands as a captivating natural wonder. This vast, shimmering salt lake is home to a stunning array of flora and fauna.

Visitors can spot three species of flamingos gracefully wading through the shallow waters, alongside herds of alpacas and llamas grazing on the shores. The lagoon’s serene beauty is complemented by the majestic Misti volcano in the distance.

Exploring this unique ecosystem provides an immersive experience, offering insights into the region’s diverse wildlife and the adaptive capabilities of its inhabitants. The Salinas Lagoon is a true natural gem of the Andean landscape.

Misti Volcano: Towering Presence

Towering over the landscape, Misti Volcano stands as a majestic presence during the Salinas Lagoon excursion. This active volcano, one of the 10 active volcanoes in the region, offers a dramatic backdrop to the day’s adventures.

Participants can:

1. Admire the volcano’s snow-capped peak, reaching an impressive 5,822 meters (19,101 feet) above sea level.

2. Learn about the volcano’s geological history and its importance in the local ecosystem.

3. Spot wildlife, including alpacas and llamas, that thrive in the shadow of this iconic natural wonder.

4. Appreciate the contrast between the volcanic landscape and the serene Salinas Lagoon.

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Andean Forest: Exploring the Queñuales

As the group departs the towering presence of Misti Volcano, they venture into the Andean forest, where the remarkable queñuales trees take center stage.

These ancient, gnarled trees with peeling white bark dot the landscape, providing a glimpse into the hardy nature of Andean flora.

Navigating the winding paths, the tour explores the unique ecosystem, observing the diverse array of plant and animal life that thrives in this high-altitude environment.

From vibrant wildflowers to agile birds, the Andean forest captivates with its rugged beauty and resilience, a testament to the adaptability of life in these mountain highlands.

Wildlife Sightings: Flamingos, Alpacas, and Llamas

The Salinas Lagoon boasts an impressive array of wildlife, including three distinct species of flamingos that can be spotted wading through the shallow, saline waters.

Situated in the heart of the Andes, the Salinas Lagoon is home to a vibrant array of flamingos wading in its saline waters.

Along With the vibrant pink flamingos, you may also catch glimpses of:

1. Majestic alpacas grazing on the surrounding grassy slopes, their fluffy coats blending seamlessly with the Andean landscape.

2. Regal llamas, the iconic camelids of the Andes, who stand tall and alert, observing the activity around the lagoon.

3. A variety of bird species, from the elegant Chilean flamingos to the playful Andean geese.

4. Diverse plant life, including the resilient queñuales trees, thriving in the challenging high-altitude environment.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Although the excursion to Salinas Lagoon includes several amenities, it also excludes some expenses.

The tour includes hotel pickup, bus transportation, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, and a continental breakfast. However, it excludes meals, travel insurance, entrance fees, and isn’t suitable for children under 3 or adults over 70.

Visitors should bring their passport or ID, cash, and a charged smartphone. Baby strollers, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed on the tour.

Customers can conveniently reserve their spot and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Customers can conveniently reserve their spot for the Salinas Lagoon excursion and pay later, allowing them the flexibility to book without immediate payment.

Customers can reserve their spot for the Salinas Lagoon excursion and pay later, providing the flexibility to book without immediate payment.

The tour provider offers the following booking and cancellation policies:

1. Reservation: Customers can reserve their spot easily without needing to pay right away.

2. Cancellation: Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

3. Last-minute reservations: Customers can check availability with the supplier via email for any last-minute bookings.

4. Refund policy: If the tour is canceled by the provider, customers will receive a full refund.

Since You Asked

Are There Any Health Restrictions for This Excursion?

There are some health restrictions for this excursion. It’s not suitable for children under 3 and people over 70. Guests should bring their passport or ID and avoid carrying baby strollers, alcohol, and drugs.

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The excursion does not specify a maximum group size. However, it notes the tour is not suitable for children under 3 and people over 70, suggesting a focus on adult participants. The exact group size can likely vary depending on bookings.

Can We Purchase Food and Drinks During the Tour?

The tour does not include meals, but visitors can purchase food and drinks during the breakfast stop in Chiguata village. Additional expenses for meals and entrance fees are not covered in the tour price.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour itinerary doesn’t mention an option to extend the duration. However, travelers can check with the supplier for any customization or add-on options that may be available to extend the tour upon request, subject to availability.

Can We Take Photos and Videos During the Excursion?

Yes, guests are encouraged to take photos and videos throughout the excursion. The guide will provide information on the best spots for capturing the stunning natural landscapes and wildlife sightings during the tour.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating day exploring Salinas Lagoon‘s breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. Marvel at the stunning Misti Volcano, discover the Andean forest’s Queñuales, and witness the vibrant flamingos, alpacas, and llamas. This excursion provides an unforgettable journey through Arequipa’s natural wonders, leaving visitors with lasting memories of their time in this enchanting region.

You can check availability for your dates here: