Excursion Salinas Lagoon and National

Primed to uncover the secrets of Peru's stunning Salinas Lagoon and National Reserve, this captivating excursion promises an adventure that will leave you wanting more.

Exploring the Salinas Lagoon and National Reserve in Peru’s stunning Andean landscape is a captivating adventure that shouldn’t be missed. Departing from Arequipa, this affordable 6-hour excursion immerses visitors in the region’s natural wonders, from the breathtaking Mirador de los Volcanes to the vast salt flats teeming with unique wildlife. With knowledgeable guides on hand, travelers can uncover the secrets of this remarkable destination and gain a deeper appreciation for Peru’s remarkable environmental treasures. The only question is, where will this excursion take you?

Key Points

  • Affordable 6-hour adventure to explore the Salinas Lagoon and National Reserve near Arequipa, Peru, priced at $23 per person.
  • Guided tours available in English or Spanish with flexible booking and cancellation policy.
  • Highlights include viewing salt flats, Andean camelids, and birds, as well as the stunning Chiguata viewpoint and Salinas Lagoon.
  • Inclusions cover knowledgeable guide, reliable transport, and pickup from Arequipa hotels, with entrance fees as an additional cost.
  • Excursion allows for immersion in Peru’s natural wonders, with recommended budgeting for a complete experience.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Excursion Overview

This excursion offers travelers a chance to explore the captivating Salinas Lagoon and National Reserve near Arequipa.

Priced affordably from $23 per person, it’s a 6-hour adventure through stunning landscapes.

Just $23 per person for a 6-hour adventure through Peru’s stunning landscapes at the Salinas Lagoon and National Reserve.

Whether you’re an English or Spanish speaker, you’ll be guided through the itinerary in your preferred language.

Plus, you can book flexibly and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

From exploring the vast salt flats to spotting Andean camelids and birds, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience in Peru’s natural wonders.

Itinerary

The excursion kicks off at 6:00 a.m. with a departure to Salinas.

After a 1.5-hour drive, you’ll arrive in Chiguata for breakfast.

Next, you’ll visit the Mirador de los Volcanes viewpoint for stunning vistas of nearby volcanoes.

Venturing into the Salinas Reserve, you’ll explore the vast salt flat and observe saltpeter production.

At the Salinas Lagoon, you’ll marvel at the mesmerizing water mirrors and reflection effects.

An optional stop at mini thermal pools precedes the return to Arequipa, arriving back in the city around 1:30 p.m.

Highlights

One of the highlights of the excursion is the Chiguata viewpoint, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the nearby volcanoes.

Towering over the landscape, these majestic peaks provide a stunning backdrop to the salt flat behind PichuPichu.

Visitors will be awestruck by the sheer vastness of this expanse, where the production of saltpeter can be observed.

Another highlight is the chance to spot camelids and high Andean birds in the reserve, a true treat for nature enthusiasts.

The salt-filled lagoon itself is equally captivating, with its mesmerizing water mirrors and reflection effects.

Inclusions

The excursion includes the services of a knowledgeable Spanish/English guide who accompanies participants throughout the tour.

Attendees also benefit from reliable tourist transport, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey. Permanent assistance is available, providing peace of mind and support should any issues arise.

Reliable tourist transport ensures a comfortable and efficient journey, with permanent assistance providing peace of mind and support.

Pickup from centrally located hotels in Arequipa is included, making it easy for visitors to join the excursion.

While the entrance ticket to the Salinas Lagoon and National Reserve is an additional cost of 10 soles, meals aren’t included, allowing participants to explore local dining options at their own pace.

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Exclusions

Although the excursion includes a comprehensive package of services, the entrance ticket to the Salinas Lagoon and National Reserve is an additional cost of 10 soles per person.

This fee provides access to the stunning salt flats, camelid reserve, and other natural wonders that make this destination so alluring. Travelers should budget accordingly and come prepared to fully enjoy the experience.

The exclusions include:

  1. Entrance ticket: 10 soles

  2. Meals during the tour

  3. Any additional activities or services not mentioned in the itinerary

  4. Personal expenses

Departure and Arrival

The excursion departs Arequipa at 6:00 a.m., whisking participants away to the captivating Salinas Lagoon and National Reserve.

After a scenic 90-minute drive, the group arrives in Chiguata for a hearty breakfast at 7:30 a.m.

Following breakfast, they’ll climb to the Mirador de los Volcanes, a viewpoint offering stunning vistas of the surrounding volcanoes.

The exploration continues as the group ventures into the expansive salt flats, marveling at the saltpeter production.

Finally, they reach the Salinas Lagoon, where mesmerizing water mirrors and reflection effects await.

With a visit to the High Andean Camelid and Bird Reserve, the excursion concludes with a 1:30 p.m. return to Arequipa.

Chiguata Viewpoint

Upon reaching Chiguata, visitors climb the Mirador de los Volcanes, a viewpoint perched at an advantageous vantage point.

The panoramic vista reveals:

  1. Towering volcanoes, their snow-capped peaks piercing the sky.

  2. Vast salt flats stretching out in the distance, shimmering in the sun.

  3. The Salinas Lagoon, a mesmerizing mirror reflecting the surrounding landscape.

  4. Herds of alpacas and llamas grazing peacefully on the high-altitude grasslands.

This breathtaking scene provides a tantalizing preview of the wonders that await in the Salinas National Reserve.

Salinas Reserve and Lagoon

From the Chiguata viewpoint, visitors descend towards the vast salt flat behind the PichuPichu mountain range.

The Salinas Reserve is a remarkable natural wonder, showcasing the production of saltpeter against a stunning backdrop. Guests explore the shimmering salt mirrors, marveling at the reflection effects.

Next, they visit the High Andean Camelid and Bird Reserve, observing the region’s unique wildlife. The optional thermal pools offer a chance to relax and take in the serene surroundings.

The Salinas Lagoon and Reserve provide a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and outdoor adventure.

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yeah, you can absolutely bring your own food and drinks on this excursion. Packing a picnic lunch is a great way to save some cash and enjoy the stunning views at your own pace.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour – it’s suitable for all ages. Kids and seniors can enjoy exploring the stunning salt flats and observing the diverse wildlife together. It’s a great family-friendly outing.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour doesn’t mention any option to extend the duration, so it seems the 6-hour excursion is the only available option. However, travelers could always inquire with the tour operator about the possibility of customizing the experience to meet their needs.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

While the standard itinerary is set, the tour provider may be able to accommodate customization requests. Travelers can inquire about modifying the schedule or adding optional activities to personalize their experience, though availability and additional fees may apply.

What Should I Bring for the Best Experience?

For the best experience, you’ll want to bring sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, and layers for the changing weather. Don’t forget to pack water, snacks, and a camera to capture the stunning natural scenery.

Sum Up

The Excursion to Salinas Lagoon and National Reserve is an affordable and unforgettable adventure. Travelers can expect stunning views, unique wildlife, and an immersive experience in Peru’s natural landscapes. With knowledgeable guides, visitors will learn about the salt flats and saltpeter production, making this a must-do activity for anyone seeking to explore the country’s incredible natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: