Arequipa: Full-Day Tour to Salinas Salt Lake

Arequipa: Full-Day Tour to Salinas Salt Lake offers an opportunity to explore some of southern Peru’s most captivating scenery without breaking the bank. For just $25 per person, this 12-hour adventure takes you from the historic center of Arequipa into the surreal landscapes of the Salinas Salt Lake and the nearby Aguada Blanca National Reserve. Led by friendly guides, you’ll learn about the region’s history, enjoy breathtaking views, and visit some lesser-known hotspots.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are the scenic drives through stunning landscapes and the chance to walk around the salt flats with plenty of time for photos. Plus, the included delicious local lunch gives you a taste of regional flavors, rounding out the experience nicely. We also appreciate the hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you the hassle of arranging transport in a city where drivers can be unpredictable.

A potential drawback? The entry to the Salt Lake and hot springs isn’t included in the price, so you may need a little extra cash if you want to explore those sites more thoroughly. Also, the day is long, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full schedule. This tour is perfect if you enjoy nature, photography, and learning about regional culture in a relaxed, guided setting.

If you’re looking for a comfortable, affordable way to see some of the most striking landscapes outside Arequipa—with the convenience of organized logistics—this tour will suit you well. Whether you’re a nature lover or simply want a memorable day out, it balances scenery, cultural insights, and ease of travel.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes: The salt flats and mountain views are truly memorable.
• Local culture: Learn about the history and significance of the region.
• Comfortable logistics: Hotel pickup and scenic drives make the day easy.
• Inexpensive value: At $25, it offers a lot of sights for a minimal price.
• Limited site entry: Entry fees for some sites are not included.
• Long day: Be prepared for 12 hours of activity, suitable for energetic travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Salinas Salt Lake Tour

What to Expect from This Full-Day Adventure

This tour is designed for those who want to see a different side of Peru—away from the bustling city streets of Arequipa and into the tranquil, wide-open landscapes of the high plateau. Starting early, you’ll be picked up from your hotel—whether you’re staying in the historic center or nearby—and set off on a roughly 1.5-hour scenic drive.

The first notable stop is Restaurante Campestre El Mirador de Chiguata, a perfect place for a quick photo and perhaps a sip of local tea while soaking in mountain vistas. This is followed by a brief 30-minute break in Chiguata, a charming highland town, where you might grab breakfast or simply stretch your legs before heading into the salt flats.

The highlight of the day is the stop at Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where the landscape transforms into a surreal scene of salt flats, volcanoes, and possibly herds of alpacas and vicuñas. With about an hour here, you’ll have time to walk around, take photos, and enjoy stunning panoramic views. The salt flats, with their expansive white surface, are especially photogenic—an open-air mirror that reflects the sky on clear days.

Afterward, you’ll visit Aguas Termales de Lojen, a natural hot spring where you can relax for an hour, offering a soothing break amid the adventure. Although entry isn’t included, the hot springs are a popular stop for those seeking a warm soak after a day of high-altitude sightseeing.

The tour continues with a scenic drive to Laguna San José Usuña, another opportunity for photos and quiet reflection by a tranquil lake. The day wraps up with a final scenic drive back to Arequipa, arriving near the Plaza de Armas, just in time to enjoy the evening.

The Excursions and Stops: What Makes Each Unique

• Scenic drive through the Andes: The constant changing views of volcanoes, high-altitude plains, and rugged mountains are captivating. You’ll love the way the landscape feels both vast and intimate.
• Salinas Salt Lake: Walking around the salt flats offers a feeling of being on another planet. The expansive white surface, contrasted with distant volcanic peaks, makes for unforgettable photos.
• National Reserve: Here, you get a glimpse of local flora and fauna—alpacas, llamas, and possibly some wild vicuñas or flamingos, depending on the season.
• Hot springs: The natural thermal waters provide a relaxing break and a chance to soak in mineral-rich waters, which many travelers find restorative.
• Laguna San José: This peaceful lake provides a quiet spot to take in the landscape and snap some last photos before heading back.

How Well Does the Tour Deliver?

According to reviews, travelers are very pleased with the experience, with one calling it “Tutto bello” (“All beautiful”). The scenery consistently stands out as the primary highlight. The guide’s explanations about the region’s history and landscape help make the experience richer, especially for those interested in understanding the land beyond just taking photos.

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The Practicalities and Pricing

At $25, this tour offers exceptional value considering the long day, transportation, and guided insights. The inclusion of hotel pickup means you won’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar streets early in the morning, and the drop-off near the Plaza de Armas keeps you close to restaurants and other sights for the evening.

Entry to the salt flats and hot springs isn’t included, which might add a few extra soles if you choose to explore these sites further. Remember to bring warm clothing, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, water, snacks, and waterproof shoes—the high-altitude environment and sun exposure can be intense.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor scenery, cultural learning, and a relaxed pace. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a comprehensive day out without the hassle of organizing transport or guides. If you’re comfortable with a long day of sightseeing and appreciate authentic, natural landscapes, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for an affordable way to see some of Peru’s most captivating highland scenery, this tour hits the mark. The combination of mountain vistas, salt flats, and natural hot springs creates a diverse experience in just one day. It’s a great choice for those who want to get outside the city and enjoy nature with the comfort of a guided group.

For travelers who prefer a flexible schedule or want to include entry to specific sites like the salt flats or hot springs, it’s worth considering additional fees or arranging those visits independently. However, for the price, this tour offers a well-organized, scenic introduction to the region’s unique landscapes.

Overall, expect a worthwhile, scenic, and educational day that will stay with you long after you’ve left Arequipa. Whether you’re photographing volcanic peaks or soaking in thermal waters, this adventure beautifully balances natural beauty with cultural insights.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in the historic center of Arequipa or nearby. Just be ready at 6 am on the reception.

How long is the drive to the salt flats?
The journey takes about 1.5 hours in a comfortable van, giving you time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Are entry fees to the salt lake or hot springs included?
No, these are not included, so you might need extra cash if you plan to visit the hot springs or enter the salt flats.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring warm clothing, sunglasses, a hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, and waterproof shoes—high-altitude conditions can be quite sunny and cool.

How long does the entire tour last?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, so be prepared for a full day of sightseeing and travel.

Is the tour suitable for kids or elderly travelers?
Yes, but given the long duration and outdoor nature, it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with a full day.

What languages does the guide speak?
The tour guide offers services in both English and Spanish.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but a local lunch is available to purchase at a restaurant.

Is this tour good for photography enthusiasts?
Absolutely. The salt flats, mountain scenery, and lakes provide excellent photo opportunities throughout the day.

In summary, this tour offers a remarkable snapshot of southern Peru’s diverse landscapes, blending natural beauty, cultural insights, and convenience into one affordable package. It’s an experience that can make your trip to Arequipa truly memorable—particularly if you love wide-open spaces, stunning vistas, and authentic local environments.

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