Arequipa: Excursion to Salinas Lagoon || All day offers an engaging blend of nature, wildlife, and Peruvian scenery. Priced at $50 per person, this full-day trip takes you from your hotel early in the morning to explore a salt flat, observe flamingos, soak in thermal baths, and enjoy the striking views of Misti volcano. The guide’s knowledge and friendly support are frequently praised, making this tour a worthwhile pick for those craving authentic nature encounters.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines wildlife viewing—especially the chance to see three types of flamingos—with the relaxing and rejuvenating thermal baths. The stop in the charming village of Chiguata, with its continental breakfast, sets a relaxed tone for the day. Plus, the opportunity to be at the foot of the active Misti volcano adds a dramatic backdrop that makes each photo a keeper.

A potential consideration is that entrance fees to some sites are not included in the price, so you’ll want to be prepared for extra expenses. Also, the itinerary can vary slightly, so managing expectations about exact routes and timing is wise. This tour suits travelers who enjoy nature, wildlife, and scenic landscapes—especially those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a hassle-free experience.

If you’re fond of exploring unique ecosystems without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially appealing for those looking for a full day of outdoor adventure, stunning scenery, and a taste of local life away from the busy city streets.

Key Points

Wildlife and scenery: See flamingos, vicuñas, and llamas in their natural habitat.
Cultural highlights: Stop at a local village for breakfast and learn about the area’s flora and fauna.
Thermal baths: Relax in natural hot springs after exploring the lagoon.
Active volcano backdrop: The Misti volcano provides a stunning scenic setting.
Flexible timing: Pick-up is early, around 6:00-6:30 a.m., and the tour ends around 4:30 p.m.
Cost considerations: Entrance fees are not included, so budget for extras.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Salinas Lagoon Excursion

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The Journey Begins Bright and Early

Starting between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m., this tour ensures you beat most of the day-trippers and get the best light and wildlife viewing opportunities. We appreciated the prompt pickup, which helps maximize your time at the lagoon and surrounding sites. The bus ride through Arequipa’s outskirts offers a glimpse of local life, and your guide will likely share insights about the region’s geography and ecosystems.

Chiguata Village and Breakfast

One of the charming parts of this trip is the stop at Chiguata, a typical village that feels like stepping into a local postcard. We enjoyed the continental breakfast of juice, mate or coffee, cereal, and toast—an accommodating start to the day. It’s the perfect fuel for the morning hike and exploration ahead.

Exploring the Flora and Fauna

As you venture into the natural areas around Salinas Lagoon, you’ll notice the Andean forest formation called queñuales, small trees and bushes that are characteristic of the region. The guide will point out the flora and fauna, including vicunas and guanacos, which are often seen grazing nearby, and of course, the flamingos that thrive in the lagoon.

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The Iconic Salinas Lagoon: Salt Flats and Flamingos

The star of the day is the Salinas Lagoon itself. When dry, it looks like a vast expanse of white salt, shimmering under the sun—an otherworldly landscape. When water is present, the lagoon becomes home to three types of flamingos, a unique sight that’s often reserved for these salt flats. You might also see alpacas and llamas wandering nearby, adding to the authentic rural atmosphere.

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The Volcano View and Surroundings

Beyond the lagoon, you’ll have the chance to explore areas near the Lojen volcano and enjoy scenic views of the Misti volcano, which dominates the skyline. The tour offers photographic opportunities and a sense of connection to the landscape’s power and beauty.

Thermal Baths and Relaxation

Following the hike, you’ll have time to unwind in thermal baths—natural hot springs that are perfect for soothing tired muscles after a day of walking and sightseeing. The experience of soaking in warm waters with a view of volcanoes is both calming and memorable.

Lunch and Return

After exploring and relaxing, you’ll have time to grab lunch on your own, a welcome break to enjoy local cuisine or a simple picnic. The tour concludes with a return trip to Arequipa, arriving around 4:30 p.m. The drop-off is conveniently near the Plaza de Armas, making it easy to continue exploring or head back to your accommodation.

Authentic Travel Experience and Practical Tips

This tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides—with reviews highlighting Angel’s attentiveness and informative commentary. The small group size (implied by the personalized service) makes the experience more intimate and engaging. The transportation is comfortable, and the support during the day is reliable.

You should be prepared for extra costs—entrance fees to some sites are not included, as noted by reviewers. Budgeting around 10 soles for breakfast or additional fees for park entry is advisable. Also, bring essentials like your passport or ID, some cash for extras, and a charged smartphone for photos.

The tour is not suitable for very young children under 3 or seniors over 70, primarily due to the physical nature and altitude of the sites.

What Travelers Say

One traveler described the experience as “perfect,” praising the guide and the well-organized schedule. Another noted that Angel was attentive and full of information, although they suggested clarifying some parts of the route and costs ahead of time. These insights can help you prepare mentally and financially for your adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those interested in seeing iconic landscapes away from urban chaos. If you’re eager to spot flamingos and vicuñas, enjoy scenic volcano views, and relax in hot springs, this trip offers a well-rounded day. It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer guided tours to navigate logistics and local insights comfortably.

However, those looking for a very relaxed, leisurely experience without much physical activity might find the early start and outdoor walking a bit demanding. Still, for anyone eager to see some of the most striking natural environments around Arequipa, this tour delivers good value and authentic sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start? The pickup is generally between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m., so be ready for an early start, but it’s worth it for the day’s highlights.

Is breakfast included? No, breakfast is not included in the tour price, but a continental breakfast is provided at the Chiguata village stop, costing around 10 soles.

Are entrance fees included? No, entrance fees to the lagoon, thermal baths, and other sites are not included, so plan to pay extra at these locations.

How long is the tour? The full-day excursion typically ends around 4:30 p.m., giving you plenty of time to relax afterward in Arequipa.

What should I bring? Essentials include your passport or ID, cash, and a charged smartphone. Be prepared for outdoor walking and variable weather.

Is the tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for children under 3 years or for elderly travelers over 70, mainly due to physical activity and altitude considerations.

What is the guide like? Reviews consistently mention attentive guides, with Angel being highlighted for his informative and friendly approach.

Can I book last-minute? It’s recommended to verify availability with the provider before booking, especially for last-minute plans.

What is the price worth? For $50, you get transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a full day of scenic and wildlife experiences, making it a good value for nature and adventure seekers.

To sum it up, the Salinas Lagoon tour from Arequipa offers a well-organized, immersive day into some of the region’s most photogenic and wildlife-rich environments. The combination of salt flats, flamingos, volcano views, and thermal baths makes for a memorable experience. It suits travelers wanting a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation with the convenience of guided support. While extra costs and early mornings are considerations, the authentic landscapes, friendly guides, and unique wildlife sightings make this an excursion worth considering for your Peruvian adventure.