Tour Salinas and Yanaorco Lagoons-Lojen Thermal Baths

This tour offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and relaxation for the adventurous traveler. Witness the stunning Salinas Lagoon and its unique wildlife, then unwind in the rejuvenating mineral-rich waters of the Lojen Hot Springs. With free time to explore the picturesque Yanaorco Lagoon, this day-long excursion promises to leave you refreshed and inspired. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking landscapes or a moment of tranquility, this tour has something remarkable in store.

Key Points

• Explore the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, which is home to iconic volcanoes and diverse wildlife, including llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and flamingos.
• Visit the Lojen Hot Springs, known for their therapeutic, mineral-rich waters, offering a relaxing experience after a day of exploration.
• Discover the Moche salt flat, a stunning photography destination within the national reserve.
• Enjoy free time and optional kayaking at the picturesque Yanaorco Lagoon.
• The full-day tour includes transportation, an English/Spanish-speaking guide, and local meals, priced from $40 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here:

About the Tour

The tour of the Salinas and Yanaorco Lagoons, along with the Lojen Thermal Baths, provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the natural wonders of Peru’s Arequipa region.

Priced from $40 per person, the full-day excursion includes transportation, an English/Spanish-speaking guide, and local meals.

Highlights include the Salinas Lagoon, home to an array of endemic fauna, and the Moche salt flat.

Visitors can relax in the medicinal waters of the Lojen Hot Springs and enjoy free time to explore the Yanaorco Lagoon area.

The tour departs Arequipa at 6 AM and returns between 4:30-5 PM, offering a comprehensive experience.

Itinerary Details

Departing from Arequipa at 6:00 AM, the tour first stops at the town of Mariano Melgar for a self-arranged breakfast.

Next, the group explores the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, home to Misti, Pichu Pichu, and Chachani volcanoes. Here, they observe endemic fauna like llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and flamingos at the Salinas Lagoon, and photograph the Moche salt flat.

After, the tour visits the Lojen Hot Springs, where participants can relax in the medicinal waters.

The final stop is the Yanaorco Lagoon, where guests can explore the area and try optional kayaking before returning to Arequipa between 4:30 and 5:00 PM.

Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve

After departing Arequipa, the tour makes its way to the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve.

This protected area is home to the iconic Misti, Pichu Pichu, and Chachani volcanoes. Visitors explore the Salinas Lagoon, observing endemic wildlife like llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and flamingos.

The Moche salt flat provides a stunning backdrop for photography. The reserve’s diverse landscapes and array of flora and fauna offer a captivating glimpse into the region’s natural wonders.

Travelers can enjoy the serene environment and appreciate the area’s ecological significance.

Exploring the Salinas Lagoon

As the tour enters the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, visitors can explore the captivating Salinas Lagoon.

This natural wonder is home to a diverse array of endemic fauna, including:

• Llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas grazing along the shoreline

• Vibrant pink flamingos wading in the shallow waters

• Unique Moche salt flat formations, perfect for photography

Visitors can wander the surroundings, observing the delicate balance of this high-altitude ecosystem.

The Salinas Lagoon offers a serene and visually stunning experience, showcasing the natural beauty of the Peruvian Andes.

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Lojen Hot Springs

Upon leaving the Salinas Lagoon, visitors can look forward to relaxing in the Lojen Hot Springs.

The natural thermal baths offer a soothing respite with their warm, mineral-rich waters, ranging from 24 to 26 degrees Celsius. Entrance to the springs costs only 5 soles (about $2 USD) per person, providing an affordable opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate.

Guests can freely enjoy the medicinal properties of the waters, which are believed to have therapeutic benefits.

After exploring the diverse landscapes, the Lojen Hot Springs provide a perfect finale to this immersive tour experience.

Yanaorco Lagoon

The tour then continues to the picturesque Yanaorco Lagoon, located near the San José de Uzuña dam.

Visitors have the opportunity to explore the serene surroundings and enjoy some free time for lunch and further exploration.

• Guests can take in the stunning views of the lagoon and its tranquil waters.

• An optional kayaking activity allows adventurous travelers to paddle across the lagoon for a unique perspective.

After enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, the group will depart for the return journey to Arequipa, arriving between 4:30 and 5:00 PM.

What’s Included

The tour includes transportation by bus or minibus, providing a comfortable journey for guests.

An English and Spanish-speaking guide accompanies the group, ensuring a smooth experience and sharing insights along the way.

Breakfast and lunch are provided, allowing travelers to refuel during the day’s adventures.

The entrance fee to the Lojen Hot Springs is also covered, granting visitors access to the therapeutic, 24-26 degree Celsius waters.

With all these essentials taken care of, guests can simply focus on seeing the stunning natural wonders of the Salinas and Yanaorco Lagoons.

Practical Information

The tour departs at 6:00 AM from Arequipa, allowing travelers ample time to explore the remarkable Salinas and Yanaorco Lagoons.

Along the way, guests can enjoy a self-arranged breakfast in the town of Mariano Melgar.

Upon arrival at the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, they’ll witness the stunning volcanoes of Misti, Pichu Pichu, and Chachani, and observe the diverse endemic fauna, including llamas, alpacas, and flamingos.

After visiting the Moche salt flat, the group will have the opportunity to relax in the medicinal waters of the Lojen Hot Springs, before continuing on to the serene Yanaorco Lagoon.

Since You Asked

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The tour group size is not specified in the details provided. The tour is offered for individual travelers, but the exact group size is not mentioned. The tour will likely accommodate a small to medium-sized group.

Can I Purchase Any Additional Snacks or Drinks During the Tour?

Travelers can purchase additional snacks and drinks during the tour. The itinerary includes a breakfast stop in Mariano Melgar where participants can arrange their own breakfast. No other meals or snacks are provided beyond the included local breakfast and lunch.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer discounts for children or seniors. The price is a flat rate of $40 per person, regardless of age. However, you can purchase additional snacks and drinks during stops along the way.

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

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour package does not include meals, so bringing personal provisions is allowed and can help save money on the trip.

What Should I Wear and Bring for the Tour?

You’ll want to dress in layers and bring sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, a swimsuit, and towel for the hot springs. Pack snacks and water, as only a light breakfast is included.

The Sum Up

This tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Peru’s Salinas and Yanaorco Lagoons, as well as the relaxing Lojen Thermal Baths. From observing wildlife in the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve to soaking in the mineral-rich hot springs, this full-day adventure offers a perfect blend of adventure and rejuvenation for nature enthusiasts. With included transportation and free time to explore, it’s a comprehensive and convenient way to discover these stunning natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: