Tour in the National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca

The National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca offers a unique opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Peruvian highlands. This 7-hour tour promises an unforgettable adventure, from the stunning Salinas Lagoon teeming with diverse wildlife to the scenic journey back with views of the majestic Misti volcano. Travelers can expect comfortable transportation, delicious refreshments, and the expertise of a bilingual guide to enhance their experience. The tour’s itinerary and inclusions make it an enticing choice for those seeking to enjoy the natural wonders of this captivating region.

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Key Points

The tour offers a 7-hour experience to explore the Salinas Lagoon and observe diverse wildlife, including flamingos, camelids, and unique plants like the Yareta.
The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation, a bilingual guide, entrance fees, snacks, drinks, and lunch.
Visitors have the opportunity to witness the majestic Misti volcano during the return trip to Arequipa.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Participants should confirm availability, tour start time, and group size to ensure a comfortable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca offers a 7-hour tour that takes visitors on an exploration of this unique protected area. Priced from $35 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a professional bilingual guide, entrance fees, snacks, drinks, and lunch.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available. The tour departs at 7:00 am and visits the Salinas Lagoon at 4,300 m.a.s.l., with a possible 4×4 crossing if water levels permit, and a scenic return to Arequipa.

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Wildlife Observation

On the tour, visitors can observe three species of flamingos: the Chilean flamingo (Phoenicopteras chilensis), the Large Andean Parihuana (Phoenicoparras andinas), and the Small Andean parihuana (Phoenicoparras jamesi).

They’ll also spot South American camelids like vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas. With luck, they may catch a glimpse of viscacha and Andean foxes.

Plus, the unique plant Yareta (azorella compacta) can be seen at elevations over 4,000 meters.

This National Reserve offers a chance to witness the diverse wildlife of the Peruvian highlands.

Itinerary

Departing at 7:00 am from your hotel, the tour takes visitors to the Salinas Lagoon situated at an elevation of 4,300 meters. Depending on water levels, guests may have the opportunity to cross the lagoon in a 4×4 vehicle. Throughout the journey, the tour provides ample opportunities to capture breathtaking photos of the surrounding landscapes and the majestic Misti volcano.

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The tour concludes with a scenic return to Arequipa, allowing participants to enjoy the natural wonders of the National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, tourist transport to and from the hotel, and permanent assistance during the excursion.

Seamless experience with hotel pick-up and drop-off, tourist transport, and permanent assistance during the excursion.

Entrance fees, a professional bilingual guide, and snacks and drinks are also provided. Lunch is included as part of the package.

Visitors have the option to leave additional gratuities if they choose. Availability and starting times can be checked, and the meeting point is available on Google Maps.

This comprehensive tour ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for visitors exploring the National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca.

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Additional Information

Visitors can check availability for starting times and participant selection prior to booking the tour. Optional service gratuities are at the discretion of guests. The meeting point is available on Google Maps for easy navigation.

Travelers should:

Check if the tour start time fits their schedule
Confirm the number of participants to ensure a comfortable experience
Review the meeting location beforehand to arrive on time
Consider adding a gratuity for the guide if they provide excellent service.

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Salinas Lagoon at 4,300 M.A.S.L

The tour visits the Salinas Lagoon, situated at an impressive altitude of 4,300 meters above sea level.

This high-altitude lake is home to three species of flamingos: the Chilean flamingo, the Large Andean Parihuana, and the Small Andean Parihuana.

Depending on water levels, visitors may have the opportunity to cross the lagoon by 4×4 vehicle, offering a unique perspective.

The journey back to Arequipa provides ample opportunities to capture stunning photographs of the surrounding landscapes and the iconic Misti volcano.

4×4 Crossing of the Lagoon

Depending on water levels, visitors may have the opportunity to cross the Salinas Lagoon by 4×4 vehicle.

The 4×4 crossing provides a unique experience and unique vantage point for viewing the lagoon and surrounding landscape. If conditions permit the crossing:

The 4×4 crossing offers a singular perspective to witness the lagoon and its surrounding scenery.

Vehicles carefully navigate through the shallow, saline waters of the lagoon.
Guests may spot flamingos and other wildlife from the elevated position of the 4×4.
The crossing offers stunning views of the lagoon, mountains, and volcanic peaks in the distance.
This thrilling activity is subject to water levels and weather conditions on the day of the tour.

Scenic Return to Arequipa

After the thrilling 4×4 crossing of the Salinas Lagoon, the scenic return to Arequipa offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

The route winds through the majestic Andes, providing ample opportunities to capture stunning photographs of the towering peaks, including the iconic Misti volcano.

Along the way, travelers can spot a variety of Andean wildlife, including vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas grazing in the distance.

The journey back to Arequipa is both visually captivating and culturally enriching, leaving a lasting impression on all who experience it.

Things To Know

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for all ages, as long as participants are able to handle the 7-hour duration and elevation of 4,300 m.a.s.l. Families with children are welcome to join the tour.

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 snacks and drinks, but bringing additional provisions is permitted. This allows flexibility and personal preferences during the day-long excursion.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is not specified. However, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as permanent assistance during the tour, suggesting a reasonable group size. It’s best to check with the tour operator for the exact group size.

Do I Need Any Special Equipment or Gear for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t require any special equipment or gear. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and dress in layers for the varying temperatures. The tour provider will provide any necessary equipment for activities like 4×4 crossings.

Are There Any Safety Precautions I Should Be Aware Of?

Travelers should wear proper hiking attire, bring sun protection, and stay hydrated. The high altitude requires extra precautions. Participants must follow the guide’s instructions for safe navigation of the terrain. Travel insurance is recommended for this outdoor adventure.

Sum Up

This 7-hour tour of the National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca offers a unique opportunity to witness the region’s breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. Guests will visit the captivating Salinas Lagoon, spot Chilean flamingos and camelids, and enjoy comfortable transportation, snacks, and a delicious lunch, all while taking in the majestic views of the Misti volcano on the scenic return to Arequipa.