Tour Salinas and Yanaorco Lagoons - Lojen Thermal Baths

Explore the captivating landscapes of the Andes on this full-day tour. Witness the breathtaking Salinas and Yanaorco lagoons, where diverse wildlife thrives. Afterward, unwind at the soothing Lojén hot springs, letting the warm waters melt away the day’s adventures. This affordable excursion from Arequipa promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. What surprises await as you venture through this stunning region?

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Key Points

This tour offers a full-day excursion from Arequipa to explore the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, including the Salinas Lagoon and Lojén hot springs.
The tour includes transportation, meals, and a guided experience to observe the diverse endemic fauna, such as llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and flamingos.
Visitors can relax at the Lojén hot springs, with water temperatures maintained between 24-26°C, and enjoy scenic mountain views.
The itinerary also includes a stop at the San José de Uzuña dam and Yanaorco lagoon, where kayaking options are available.
Customer reviews provide mixed feedback, with some finding the route long and others enjoying the food and overall experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers visitors a chance to explore the Salinas and Yanaorco Lagoons, as well as the Lojén Thermal Baths, for a price starting from $30.00 per person.

The 1-day excursion departs at 6:00 AM from Arequipa, with a breakfast stop along the way. Included are transportation, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, local meals, and access to the Lojén hot springs.

The 1-day excursion departs at 6:00 AM from Arequipa, with a breakfast stop along the way. Included are transportation, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, local meals, and access to the Lojén hot springs.

Travelers can freely cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they don’t have to pay upfront to reserve their spot.

The tour allows visitors to witness stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife in the region.

Looking for more options in Arequipa? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with a 6:00 AM departure from Arequipa, allowing visitors to start their day with a breakfast stop in Mariano Melgar.

The first destination is the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, home to the majestic Misti, Pichu Pichu, and Chachani volcanoes. Visitors will witness the wetlands and salt beaches of the Salinas Lagoon and observe endemic fauna like llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, flamingos, and migratory birds.

After photographing the Moche salt flat, the group will relax at the Lojén hot springs, where the water temperature ranges from 24-26°C.

The final stop is the San José de Uzuña dam and Yanaorco lagoon, with free time for lunch and kayaking.

Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve

Nestled within the Andes mountains, the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve boasts an enchanting landscape. Home to the majestic Misti, Pichu Pichu, and Chachani volcanoes, the reserve offers breathtaking vistas. Visitors can expect to encounter a diverse array of endemic fauna, including llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, flamingos, and migratory birds.

| Highlights | Details |

| — | — |

| Salinas Lagoon | Explore the wetlands and salt beaches |

| Moche Salt Flat | Capture stunning photographs |

| Yanaorco Lagoon | Enjoy free time for lunch and kayaking |

The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to connect with the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.

Salinas Lagoon’s Wetlands and Salt Beaches

Stretching across the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, the Salinas Lagoon captivates visitors with its expansive wetlands and glistening salt beaches.

Visitors can witness vast flats of pure white salt, formed by the evaporation of shallow waters. The lagoon’s shores are home to diverse flora and fauna, including hardy plants adapted to the saline environment.

Flocks of vibrant flamingos wade in the shallows, feeding on the abundant brine shrimp. Llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas graze nearby, offering ample photo opportunities.

Exploring the Salinas Lagoon’s unique landscape is a highlight of the day-long tour.

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Endemic Fauna Observation

Majestic herds of llamas, alpacas, and the elusive vicuña populate the rolling hills surrounding the Salinas Lagoon.

Flamingos wade through the shallows, feeding on the abundant microorganisms that thrive in the saline waters.

Migratory birds, drawn by the wetland’s rich ecosystem, soar overhead, adding vibrant pops of color to the picturesque landscape.

The diversity of wildlife is a true highlight of the tour, offering visitors an intimate glimpse into the region’s unique natural wonders:

Observing the graceful movements of llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas
Spotting the striking pink plumage of the flamingos
Identifying the variety of migratory bird species

There's plenty more to explore in Arequipa

Lojén Hot Springs

After exploring the diverse wildlife around the Salinas Lagoon, the tour takes visitors to the Lojén hot springs.

Nestled in a picturesque valley, the naturally heated pools offer a soothing respite. Guests can soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters, which maintain a comfortable temperature of 24-26°C.

Surrounded by stunning mountain views, the hot springs provide a chance to relax and unwind. A modest entrance fee of 5 Soles (2 US dollars) grants access to this tranquil oasis.

Visitors can spend free time enjoying the serene setting and revitalizing in the therapeutic thermal waters.

San José De Uzuña Dam and Yanaorco Lagoon

The tour then proceeds to the picturesque San José de Uzuña dam and the tranquil Yanaorco lagoon.

Visitors are free to explore the area, with options for:

Enjoying a leisurely lunch break.
Trying out kayaking on the serene lagoon.
Admiring the stunning natural surroundings.

The dam and lagoon offer a peaceful respite from the day’s activities, allowing travelers to soak in the beauty of the Peruvian landscape.

This stop provides a well-deserved break before continuing on to the final destination of the tour.

Customer Reviews

Customers have provided mixed feedback on the Salinas and Yanaorco Lagoons tour.

While some had a positive experience, others were dissatisfied. Guylaine from Canada found the route too long and uncomfortable, and felt the guide lacked engagement. She deemed the points of interest uninteresting.

In contrast, Sheyla from the United States had a fun time and enjoyed the good food provided.

The tour received a 3.5/5 rating based on 2 reviews.

Potential customers should weigh these divergent perspectives when deciding whether to book the tour.

Things To Know

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

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The itinerary doesn’t mention any restrictions, so participants are free to pack their own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the day’s activities and free time.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can book the spot without upfront payment and cancel without penalty if plans change.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There is no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is a fixed 1-day itinerary, and customers must book within the specified timeframe. Any requests to modify the duration would need to be discussed directly with the tour operator.

Can I Request a Private or Customized Tour Experience?

Yes, you can request a private or customized tour experience. The tour operator offers flexible options to tailor the itinerary and duration to suit your preferences, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable exploration of the region’s natural wonders.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for This Tour?

There are no explicit discounts or special offers noted for this tour. However, the tour allows flexibility with free cancellation and pay-later options, which may provide cost-saving opportunities for travelers.

Sum Up

The "Tour Salinas and Yanaorco Lagoons – Lojen Thermal Baths" promises an unforgettable adventure amidst the breathtaking Andes. With its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rejuvenating thermal springs, this tour offers a perfect balance of exploration and relaxation for nature enthusiasts. At just $30 per person, it’s an affordable way to take in the natural wonders of Peru’s Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve.