Excursion to Salinas Lagoon and National Reserve in Arequipa

Exploring Salinas Lagoon and the National Reserve in Arequipa: A Practical Adventure

If you’re visiting Arequipa and craving a day outside the city that combines natural beauty with a dash of adventure, this Salinas Lagoon and National Reserve tour is worth considering. For $49 per person, you get a full 9-hour experience that takes you from early morning departures through some of the most striking highland landscapes, complete with volcano vistas, salt flats, and native wildlife. Our guide, whose name I wish I remembered, was informative and friendly, making the long drive feel like a chat among friends.

What we loved most was the viewpoint in Chiguata, where you can see the volcanoes in all their glory—a perfect reason to get up early. The salt flats at PichuPichu also stole our hearts, especially with their vast, shimmering white expanse that makes for excellent photos. We also appreciated seeing Camelids and High Andean Birds in their natural habitat, reinforcing the tour’s authentic feel. The only thing to keep in mind is the climb to the viewpoint can be a bit strenuous for some, so a reasonable level of fitness helps.

This tour is an excellent choice for those who enjoy geography, wildlife, and stunning landscapes without the hassle of planning. It’s particularly suited for travelers who don’t mind an early start and are eager to understand more about the high-altitude environment around Arequipa. If you’re seeking a relaxed day swimming in thermal waters or visiting cultural sites, this might not be your best fit, but for pure natural beauty, it hits the mark.

• Scenic Views: The viewpoint at Chiguata offers a panoramic look at volcanoes and the surrounding landscape.
• Salt Flats: The expansive salt flats of PichuPichu provide dramatic photo opportunities and insight into local salt production.
• Wildlife: You’ll enjoy seeing Camelids and high-altitude birds in a natural setting.
• Early Start: The tour begins at 6:00 am, so be prepared for an early but rewarding day.
• Included & Not Included: Guides and transport are covered, but entry tickets and meals are extra.
• Ideal For: Those interested in geology, wildlife, and landscapes, who are comfortable with a bit of exertion on the climb.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Departing Early and the Drive to Salinas

The day kicks off at 6:00 am with a pickup from the designated meeting point. The journey from Arequipa city to the Salinas area involves a roughly three-hour drive, giving you plenty of time to relax or chat with fellow travelers. The coach is comfortable enough for the long haul, and the landscape en route is as captivating as the destination, with views of distant volcanoes and rugged highland terrain.

Breakfast at Chiguata and the Volcano Viewpoint

At around 7:30 am, the group stops in Chiguata for breakfast, a simple but tasty pause to fuel up for the day. The highlight here is the viewpoint in Chiguata, where you will get a full vista of the volcanoes behind. The climb to this viewpoint is described as having a bit of difficulty, so if you’re not used to high-altitude walks or steep inclines, go prepared. We appreciated the chance to snap photos of the volcanic peaks—such as PichuPichu—looming majestically in the distance.

The Salt Flats of PichuPichu

By 10:00 am, you arrive at the Salt Flats in the Salinas Reserve. This area is not just beautiful but also historically significant, as saltpeter production has taken place here. You’ll see vast white expanses stretching as far as the eye can see, with the reflective surface creating perfect conditions for spectacular photos. Some reviews mentioned the atmospheric quality of these flats, comparing the scenery to a mirrored paradise. The salt flats give a sense of scale and the raw power of nature, which we found quite compelling.

Salinas Lagoon

Next, at 10:30 am, the tour takes you to the Salinas Lagoon, where water mirrors the sky and salt flats, creating incredible reflection effects. The lagoon’s landscape feels almost surreal—a glossy surface with distant mountains framing the scene. You might find yourself spending extra time here just soaking in the calm and snapping more photos. This spot is perfect for anyone wanting to capture that classic high-altitude landscape shot.

Wildlife and the High Andean Reserve

By 11:00 am, the group visits the High Andean Bird and Camelid Reserve. Here, we saw camelids like llamas and alpacas wandering freely, and a variety of high-altitude birds fluttering around. This part of the tour offers a rare chance to observe native wildlife in their natural environment, which adds an authentic feel to the experience. Some travelers noted how peaceful and unspoiled the reserve feels, providing a genuine glimpse into local highland ecosystems.

Optional Thermal Wells

At 11:30 am, there’s an optional stop for a mini soak in thermal wells. While the tour notes this as optional, it’s a delightful way to relax after the morning’s exertion and enjoy the mineral-rich waters, known to be soothing. Keep in mind that this is a brief visit, so don’t expect a full spa experience, but it’s a nice bonus.

Return to Arequipa

The tour wraps up around 1:30 pm with the return journey. We found that the entire experience, including travel and stops, ran smoothly, giving enough time to enjoy each highlight without feeling rushed. The total duration of nine hours is perfect for a well-paced exploration without dragging.

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What Makes This Tour Special

What sets this trip apart is the combination of geological marvels, wildlife viewing, and stunning photography opportunities. The salt flats and lagoon are particularly photogenic, especially on sunny days when the reflections are most dramatic. Our guide was knowledgeable about the area’s geology and fauna, making the experience both visually and intellectually enriching.

Another highlight is the accessible yet rewarding viewpoint. Although the climb can be challenging, the panoramic views are truly worth the effort, providing a sense of achievement and a lasting memory. The wildlife encounters, while not extensive, are authentic and add a layer of natural interest that many tours can’t match.

Practical Considerations

The price of $49 includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and ongoing assistance—an excellent value considering the distance traveled and the sights visited. Entry tickets to the salt flats or lagoon cost an additional 10 soles, so budget accordingly if you want to access all sites. Meals are not included, but the breakfast at Chiguata is a simple, satisfying start, and there may be options for snacks along the way.

The tour’s early start might be a challenge for some, especially those not used to high-altitude travel or early mornings. The group size is not specified but tends to be in the typical range for such excursions, making it manageable for social travelers and those who prefer a more intimate experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re eager to see the spectacular highland landscapes, salt flats, and native wildlife, and you’re comfortable with a modest climb, this tour offers excellent value. It’s perfect for nature lovers, photographers, or geology buffs wanting a full day immersed in the natural beauty around Arequipa. Those seeking cultural sites or a leisurely pace with other activities might want to look elsewhere.

Final Thoughts

This excursion to Salinas Lagoon and the National Reserve provides a well-rounded look at some of the most stunning natural features near Arequipa. It balances scenic beauty with wildlife and geological insights, all in a manageable day trip. While the climb to the viewpoint might challenge some, the panoramic vistas and photographic opportunities make it worthwhile. For travelers who love landscapes that inspire awe and appreciate authentic wildlife encounters, this tour hits many marks.

In a region rich with volcanic scenery and high-altitude ecosystems, this trip offers a snapshot of Peru’s diverse natural beauty—an experience that enriches your understanding of this unique landscape while providing plenty of chances for memorable photos. Whether you’re a dedicated adventurer or a casual explorer, you’ll find this tour a valuable addition to your Arequipa itinerary.

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FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting early in the morning and returning by early afternoon.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers guide services in both English and Spanish, tourist transportation, ongoing assistance, and pickup from the meeting point.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there is a breakfast stop in Chiguata, and you can purchase snacks or additional food along the way.

How much is the entry ticket?
Entry to the salt flats and lagoon costs an additional 10 soles per person.

Is there any optional activity?
Yes, there’s an optional stop at mini thermal wells for a quick soak, which is not included in the price.

What should I wear or bring?
Prepare for high-altitude conditions with layers, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to climb to the viewpoint.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It’s ideal for travelers interested in geology, wildlife, and landscapes who are comfortable with early starts and some physical activity. It’s great for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

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