Excursion to Salinas Lagoon

Excursion to Salinas Lagoon: An Authentic Nature Escape Near Arequipa

If you’re craving a day away from the city’s historic streets and want to experience Peru’s high-altitude landscapes, the Salinas Lagoon tour offers a compelling mix of wild scenery, local wildlife, and volcanic drama. For $35 per person, this 10-hour outing takes you on a scenic journey around the Misti volcano to explore a salt lake teeming with flamingos and the surrounding Andean forest.

What we really appreciate about this trip is how it combines accessible nature with small-school charm — a continental breakfast in a typical Chiguata, and an up-close look at the region’s flora and fauna. Plus, the chance to see three types of flamingos in one lagoon is a genuine highlight for bird lovers. We also liked that the tour is well-organized with hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to join without extra logistics.

A potential consideration is the early start — the pickup begins between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m. — so this is best suited for those who don’t mind an early rise. This trip suits travelers interested in nature, wildlife, and volcanic landscapes who want a manageable day trip that offers both education and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Natural beauty of the Salinas Lagoon and surrounding volcanic landscapes
• Wildlife sightings, especially flamingos, llamas, and alpacas
• Educational experience about the flora (queñuales) and volcanic activity in the region
• Convenient logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Value for money at $35, including breakfast and guided tour
• Limited water activities; mainly scenic walking and birdwatching

Exploring the Journey to Salinas Lagoon

The adventure begins early, with a pickup from your hotel in Arequipa between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m., setting the stage for an immersive day in nature. The bus ride itself is part of the experience — through winding roads that climb towards the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve. The early morning departure ensures you get the most out of the daylight hours, and you’ll appreciate the cooler air and fewer crowds.

Your first stop is in Chiguata, a quaint town with traditional Peruvian charm. Here, you’ll enjoy a continental breakfast — a simple yet satisfying meal of juice, mate or coffee, cereals, and toast. It’s a nice touch that breaks up the early morning drive, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and soak in local life. Travelers often mention how this local breakfast adds authenticity to the experience, making it feel less like a tourist trap and more like a genuine outing.

The Beauty of the Andean Landscape and Misti Volcano

Once back on the road, you’ll get spectacular views of the Misti volcano, which looms large behind the lagoon. Did you know it’s one of the top 10 active volcanoes in the region? As we drive along, the landscape transforms into a rugged, volcanic terrain dotted with small trees and bushes called queñuales — a type of Andean forest that’s uniquely adapted to high-altitude conditions.

This part of the trip is a treat for anyone interested in geology and ecology. We loved the way the guide explained how the volcanic activity shapes the environment, providing nutrients and creating the salt flats that form the lagoon. It’s a landscape that feels both harsh and beautiful, reminding us of the resilience of nature.

The Main Attraction: Salinas Lagoon

Arriving at Salinas Lagoon, you’ll find yourself standing at a striking salt flat that, depending on the season, can be dazzlingly white or partially filled with water. When dry, the white salt deposits shimmer in the sunlight — a surreal sight that resembles a snowy plain, but all natural. When water is present, the lagoon becomes a habitat teeming with flamingos, especially three different types, which is quite rare in the world of birdwatching.

Many visitors comment on how special it is to see these elegant birds wading in their natural habitat. One reviewer noted, “Seeing the flamingos up close was the real highlight for us, and we loved how the lagoon reflected the sky.” Llamas and alpacas often accompany visitors on the walk around the lagoon, adding to the rustic charm and giving you more opportunities for memorable photos.

You’ll also have time to explore the vicinity of the Lojen volcano and visit some thermal baths nearby. While the baths are not included, they provide a relaxing side option if time permits. The walk around the lagoon is manageable for most fitness levels, focusing on scenery, wildlife, and the quiet beauty of volcanic Earth.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, bus transportation, and a Spanish-speaking guide. The continental breakfast is part of the package, but food afterwards — such as lunch — is separate. This is a good value considering the transport, guide, and the opportunity to see such iconic landscapes and wildlife.

You’ll want to bring your own snacks or lunch, as the tour doesn’t include food beyond breakfast. Also, since the tour is operated by XPLORA AMERICA, it’s worth noting that the guide will speak Spanish, though some operators may offer bilingual guides upon request.

Timing and Group Size

The day runs for about 10 hours, from early morning pickup to returning around 4:30 p.m. This schedule ensures you experience the best of the area without feeling rushed. Group sizes tend to be small, which helps make the experience more personal and flexible.

The early start might be a challenge if you prefer sleeping in, but it pays off with fewer crowds at the lagoon and a cooler climate — ideal for wildlife watching and photography.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and anyone interested in volcanic landscapes. If you love seeing unique flora like queñuales or want to spot flamingos in their natural habitat, this tour offers a rare chance. It’s also suitable for families or groups wanting a manageable day trip with comfortable logistics.

While not geared for adventure sports, the walk around the lagoon and the scenic drives make it a laid-back yet visually rewarding experience. It’s a good fit for travelers who want to learn about the region’s geology and ecology without the need for strenuous activity.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

At $35, the Salinas Lagoon tour offers a solid value for the experience of witnessing high-altitude salt flats, flamingos, and volcanic scenery. It combines educational elements with authentic landscapes, making it ideal for curious travelers who enjoy learning on the go. The early start and the potential for variable weather are considerations, but the convenience of hotel pickup and the scenic stops justify it.

Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, geology buff, or just someone wanting a peaceful nature escape, this trip delivers a quiet, picturesque, and memorable slice of Arequipa’s surroundings. It’s a well-organized, authentic experience that opens a window into the region’s unique environment without requiring complicated logistics or a hefty price tag.

FAQ

What is the cost of the tour?
It costs $35 per person, which includes transportation, guide, and breakfast.

What is included in the tour?
You get hotel pickup and drop-off, bus transportation, a Spanish-speaking guide, and a continental breakfast.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience is about 10 hours, from early morning pickup to returning around 4:30 p.m.

Is food included after breakfast?
No, lunch and other meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy lunch locally.

When does the tour start?
Pickup is between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m., depending on your hotel location and availability.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and comfortable walking shoes. A jacket may be useful depending on the weather.

Can I see flamingos?
Yes, the lagoon is home to three types of flamingos, making it a fantastic spot for birdwatching.

What is the scenery like?
Expect a mix of salt flats, volcanic landscapes, and small forests of queñuales, with views of the imposing Misti volcano.

Are there any physical demands?
The walk around the lagoon is manageable for most, but comfortable shoes and moderate fitness are recommended.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It’s ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers interested in volcanic landscapes who prefer a relaxed, scenic day trip.

This tour strikes a good balance between accessible adventure and educational exploration. If you want to see some of Peru’s stunning highland scenery without committing to a multi-day trek, the Salinas Lagoon experience offers a compelling, authentic glimpse into this volcanic region.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby