Discovering the Salinas and Yanaorco Lagoons + Lojen Thermal Baths

A day trip through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve offers a fascinating mix of landscapes, wildlife, and relaxation. For just $30 per person, you’ll spend roughly six hours exploring Salinas Lagoon, observing endemic fauna like flamingos and alpacas, soaking in Lojen thermal baths, and enjoying views of volcanoes like Misti, Pichu Pichu, and Chachani.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to see flamingos and vicuñas in their natural habitat—an authentic wildlife experience—and the simplicity of the journey, which doesn’t involve a lot of complicated logistics. Plus, the thermal baths offer a surprisingly relaxing break after a morning of sightseeing.

One thing to keep in mind is that additional costs can add up—entrance fees for the thermal baths (around 5 S/ or US$2), the salt lagoon, and other activities are not included in the base price. If you’re on a tight budget or prefer a fully all-inclusive experience, this might be worth considering.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a good mix of nature, wildlife, scenic views, and a touch of relaxation—especially those keen on seeing flamingos and alpacas in their natural environment. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind a bit of a relaxed pace and are prepared for some optional extra costs.

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Key Points

Authentic wildlife sightings: Flamingos, alpacas, vicuñas in their natural habitat.
Stunning scenery: Volcano views and salt flats offer memorable photo opportunities.
Relaxing thermal baths: Lojen’s medicinal waters are a pleasant way to unwind.
Affordable price: At just $30, this tour provides a well-rounded experience.
Additional costs: Entrance fees for certain sites are extra, so budget accordingly.
Group size and guide: Knowledgeable guides speak both Spanish and English, enhancing your understanding of the area’s geology and wildlife.

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A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The Journey Begins Early

The tour kicks off at 6:00 a.m., a decent time if you’re eager to maximize your day. You’ll be picked up from your hotel or a designated meeting point in downtown Arequipa, making logistics straightforward. The early start means you get a head start on avoiding the crowds and catching the best lighting for photos.

The first stop is Mariano Melgar, where you can grab breakfast on your own. This small town is a good chance to stretch your legs and fuel up before heading out into the reserve. The drive itself is scenic, with views of volcanoes and expansive plains that hint at the wonder ahead.

Exploring the Salinas Lagoon

Arriving at the Salinas Lagoon is the tour’s highlight. Surrounded by wetlands and salt flats, this site offers striking landscapes that change dramatically depending on the season. During the rainy months (January to March), the lagoon turns into a vast mirror reflecting the sky and volcanoes, creating a perfect photo backdrop.

We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the salt flats and the unique ecosystem. The chance to see endemic animals like flamingos wading in the shallow waters or grazing nearby adds a genuine touch of nature’s beauty. One reviewer pointed out, “You will be able to observe flamingos and alpacas in their natural habitat,” which truly is an experience worth savoring.

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Wildlife and Photography

The abundance of migratory birds and the presence of llamas, vicuñas, and alpacas make this part of the tour especially engaging. The salt flats also provide fun opportunities for playing with perspective in photos—like making it look as if you’re holding a salt crystal or balancing on a salt beach.

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The Thermal Baths of Lojen

Next, the visit to Lojen thermal baths offers a chance for genuine relaxation. The waters are considered medicinal, with temperatures around 24 to 26°C—a comfortable warmth that’s perfect for unwinding. There’s no pressure to stay long, but many find the baths a highlight for their therapeutic qualities and the sense of calm they induce after a busy morning.

Note: Entrance to the baths costs about 5 S/ (US$2), which isn’t included in the tour price. Some travelers might find this an added expense, but considering the soothing experience, it’s generally well worth it.

Yanaorco Lagoon and the San José de Uzuña Dam

The journey then continues to the Yanaorco Lagoon, located near the impressive San José de Uzuña dam—a marvel of civil engineering. Here, you’ll have some free time to explore, have lunch (not included), or even rent a kayak if you’re feeling adventurous. The lagoon’s calm waters and surrounding volcanic landscapes create a peaceful setting for reflection and photos.

Returning to Arequipa

By mid-afternoon, the tour wraps up with a return trip, arriving back in downtown Arequipa between 4:30 and 5:00 p.m. This convenient schedule means you can comfortably plan your evening or explore more of the city.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is by bus or minibus, ensuring a comfortable ride while maintaining a manageable group size that allows for personalized attention from guides. The guides speak both Spanish and English, which enhances understanding, especially when learning about the geology and wildlife.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a breakfast (though reviews suggest this may not always be included), and a guide. However, lunch is not provided, and entrance fees for Lojen thermal baths and other sites are extra.

While the price is reasonable, travelers should budget for additional expenses like entrance fees and optional activities. A review mentioned, “you also have to pay for the park, the salt lagoon, and the thermal baths,” so it’s wise to carry cash.

The Experience’s Value

For $30, this tour offers a good mix of scenery, wildlife, and relaxation. The scenic drive alone, with views of the volcanoes and salt flats, is worth the price. The guided commentary enriches the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those who love wildlife and scenic landscapes but aren’t expecting a high-adrenaline adventure. It appeals to travelers looking for authentic nature encounters and cultural insights. The optional costs for entrance fees mean it’s best suited for travelers flexible with a modest budget.

Final Thoughts

This tour of the Salinas and Yanaorco lagoons plus Lojen thermal baths is a well-conceived way to see some of the most striking landscapes around Arequipa without overextending your day or budget. It offers genuine chances to spot flamingos, relax in thermal waters, and enjoy views of volcanoes that define the region.

The knowledgeable guides and the chance to see animals like alpacas and vicuñas in their natural environment add authenticity that’s often missing from more commercialized tours. The inclusion of photography opportunities at the salt flats makes it memorable for travelers of all ages.

However, be prepared for some extra costs—entrance fees at key sites—and manage your expectations about meal options, as lunch isn’t included. If you’re comfortable with a flexible schedule and a moderate pace, this tour delivers good value and a meaningful experience of Peru’s diverse landscapes.

Overall, it’s an excellent choice for nature lovers and curious explorers who want to see the high desert’s unique beauty and unwind in thermal springs after a day of adventure.

FAQ

Is breakfast included in this tour?
Breakfast is provided in your hotel, but reviews suggest that there might be some inconsistency—some travelers had to pay for breakfast separately. It’s best to confirm with the provider beforehand.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately six hours, starting at 6:00 a.m. and returning around 4:30 to 5:00 p.m.

What is the best time of year to visit?
While the tour runs year-round, January to March is the rainy season when the lagoon turns into a water mirror, offering especially stunning scenery.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, entrance fees for the thermal baths (about 5 S/ or US$2), the salt lagoon, and any optional kayak rides are extra. These are not included in the base price.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for all ages, as long as participants are comfortable with a full day of travel and some walking or standing during stops.

Can I customize the experience or skip certain parts?
The itinerary is fixed, but since there are free times at the thermal baths and lagoon, you can choose to relax or explore as you wish. Be sure to communicate any specific needs with your guide.

This tour offers a balanced look at the natural wonders near Arequipa, perfect for those seeking an affordable yet authentic adventure into some of Peru’s most scenic highland wetlands and volcanic landscapes.