Excursion: Lagoon and National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca in Arequipa.

Exploring the Lagoon and National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca in Arequipa is an opportunity not to be missed. This one-day excursion takes adventurers on a journey through stunning landscapes, offering glimpses of unique wildlife and the chance to take in the region’s natural beauty. With hotel pickup, transportation, and a knowledgeable guide, the tour provides a hassle-free way to discover the breathtaking wonders that await. What secrets might this remarkable reserve hold for those who venture forth?

Key Points

• This one-day excursion offers a guided tour of the Lagoon and National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca near Arequipa, Peru.
• Highlights include photo stops, wildlife observation of camelids and flamingos, and exploration of the lagoon and salt flats.
• The tour includes transportation, hotel pickup, and an English/Spanish-speaking guide, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.
• Customers praise the incredible views, value for money, and knowledgeable guides, with an overall tour rating of 4.7/5.
• The tour provides an opportunity to immerse in the serene, high-altitude landscapes and encounter the diverse wildlife of the region.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Excursion

The Lagoon and National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca in Arequipa provides an exciting one-day excursion for visitors. Priced from $26 per person, the tour departs at 7 AM from Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas and returns at 5 PM.

Highlights include photo stops, guided tours of the Laguna de Salinas and Mini Volcán de Logén, and observing Andean wildlife like llamas, alpacas, and flamingos.

Witness the stunning Laguna de Salinas and Mini Volcán de Logén while spotting Andean wildlife such as llamas, alpacas, and flamingos.

The tour includes transportation, hotel pickup, and an English/Spanish-speaking guide. Guests can hike the lagoon and salt flats, stop for lunch, and visit scenic viewpoints of nearby volcanoes.

Free cancellation and pay later options are available.

Itinerary Highlights

The excursion begins with a stop at Plaza de Chiguata, where participants can take photos for around 10 minutes.

Next, they’ll visit Laguna de Salinas, where they’ll enjoy a guided tour lasting 1.5 hours.

The tour then heads to the Mini Volcán de Logén, where visitors can explore the mini-volcano and hot springs for 45 minutes.

Throughout the day, you will have the chance to observe South American camelids like llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas, as well as high Andean birds including flamingos.

Hikers will explore the lagoon and salt flats before stopping for a 50-minute lunch.

Transportation and Assistance

Tourist transportation is provided for the excursion, with pick-up available at centrally located hotels in Arequipa.

Throughout the tour, assistance is available to ensure a seamless experience. The tour is led by live guides fluent in both English and Spanish, providing informative commentary.

Travelers can expect a well-coordinated trip, from the 7 AM departure from Plaza de Armas to the 5 PM return.

With this level of support, participants can focus on seeing the stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters without worrying about logistical details.

Wildlife and Nature Observation

As travelers venture into the Lagoon and National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca, they’ll be treated to breathtaking views of three nearby volcanoes: Chachani, Misti, and Pichupichu.

The ancient Queñuales and Yaretales trees near Pichu-pichu volcano add to the serene, high-altitude landscape.

But the true highlight is the chance to encounter hundreds, if not thousands, of South American camelids – llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas.

Visitors can observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, along with a variety of high Andean birds, including the iconic flamingos that inhabit the lagoon and salt flats.

More Great Tours Nearby

Laguna De Salinas

After leaving Arequipa, visitors make their way to the captivating Laguna de Salinas, a stunning salt lake nestled within the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve.

Here, they embark on a guided tour, marveling at the shimmering expanse of salt crystals that stretch out before them. The lake’s vibrant pink hues, created by the presence of salt-loving microorganisms, provide a breathtaking contrast against the arid desert landscape.

Visitors can stroll along the boardwalks, taking in the serene atmosphere and keeping an eye out for the flamingos that frequent the lagoon’s shallow waters.

Mini Volcán De Logén

Next, the tour heads to the fascinating Mini Volcán de Logén. This small, cone-shaped volcano offers a unique opportunity to explore volcanic features up close.

Visitors can hike around the crater’s edge, peer into the steaming fumaroles, and marvel at the vibrant mineral deposits. The 45-minute guided tour provides insights into the volcano’s geology and the surrounding landscape.

Travelers can also enjoy the nearby hot springs, which offer a chance to relax and soak in the natural thermal waters. This stop on the excursion promises an engaging and educational volcanic experience.

South American Camelids

The excursion then takes visitors to observe the magnificent South American camelids, including llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas.

These iconic animals thrive in the high-altitude landscapes of the Andes. Llamas, with their distinctive long necks and gentle demeanor, are often used as pack animals.

Llamas, with their distinctive long necks and gentle demeanor, are often used as pack animals in the high-altitude Andes.

Alpacas, smaller and fluffier, are prized for their soft, warm fiber. The elusive vicuña, a wild relative, roams the area, protected within the national reserve.

Tourists delight in spotting these magnificent creatures, admiring their adaptations to the rugged environment and their vital role in the local culture and economy.

Customer Feedback

Travelers who’ve experienced the Salinas and Aguada Blanca excursion overwhelmingly praise the tour.

With an impressive 4.7/5 rating based on 6 reviews, customers highlight the incredible views, value for money, and knowledgeable guides.

Many recommend strategies for dealing with the high altitude, such as using coca leaves and tips provided by the staff.

The excursion offers an exceptional opportunity to observe South American camelids and explore the stunning natural landscapes of the Aguada Blanca National Reserve.

Guests consistently leave the tour satisfied and eager to share their memorable experiences.

Things To Know

Is There a Dress Code for the Excursion?

There’s no strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Layering is recommended to adapt to changing temperatures during the day’s activities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks for the tour. The tour doesn’t provide meals, so packing a lunch and snacks is recommended, especially since the highest point reaches 4900m and you’ll need the extra energy.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is generally suitable for children, though the high altitude and hike may be challenging. Children should be accompanied by an adult, and families should consider the child’s fitness and ability to manage the physical requirements.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Excursion?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Children of all ages can participate, though parents should consider their kids’ stamina for the high-altitude hikes and long bus rides. The tour provider can advise on accommodating young travelers.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, you can extend the duration of the tour. The excursion is offered as a 1-day trip, but you may be able to arrange for a longer stay or additional activities by contacting the tour provider directly.

Sum Up

This one-day excursion to the Lagoon and National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the breathtaking natural beauty of Arequipa. Travelers can expect stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and an unforgettable adventure, all while enjoying the convenience of hotel pickup, transportation, and a knowledgeable guide. At just $26 per person, this excursion provides excellent value for an unforgettable day in the Peruvian wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here: