From Arequipa: Excursion to the Salinas Lagoon || Full Day

If you’re exploring Arequipa and looking to get off the beaten path, this full-day tour to the Salinas Lagoon offers a fascinating mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and local culture. For $40 per person, you’ll spend roughly 10 hours with a knowledgeable guide, visiting a salt flat surrounded by volcanoes, spotting flamingos, and encountering llamas and alpacas along the way. Starting early, typically between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m., the trip takes you into the scenic countryside, with opportunities to see the Misti volcano looming in the background and explore the flora and fauna of the region.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances natural highlights with authentic local scenery. First, the Laguna de Salinas itself, which can appear eerily white and snow-like if dry or shimmering with water if wet. Second, the chance to see three types of flamingos—a real treat for bird lovers—and to walk among llamas and alpacas that are relaxed and friendly. The trip also includes a stop in the charming village of Chiguata and visits to thermal baths, giving you a well-rounded day.

One consideration is the early start time, which might be tough for some travelers, especially if you’re not an early riser. Plus, the tour does not include meals, so you’ll want to plan for lunch during your free time after the walk. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy nature, wildlife, and scenic landscapes but are comfortable with a full day on the road, often in a group setting.

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Key Points

Authentic Experience: Combines wildlife, scenic volcanic landscapes, and local culture.
Wildlife Viewing: Spot flamingos, vicuñas, guanacos, and see llamas and alpacas.
Natural Highlights: Explore salt flats, lagoons, hot springs, and wetlands.
Early Start: Tours begin between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m., so plan accordingly.
Value for Money: Just $40 covers transportation, guide, and a full day’s adventure.
Flexible Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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Detailed Review

Starting the Day: Early Pickup and Scenic Drive

The tour kicks off bright and early, with pickup from your hotel in Arequipa around 6:00 to 6:30 a.m. This might seem a bit ambitious, especially if you’re not used to early mornings, but it’s worth it for the cooler temperatures and the chance to beat the crowds. From the start, you’ll notice how the landscape transforms as you leave the city behind, heading toward the border of the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve.

Your guide, who speaks both English and Spanish, provides commentary about the region’s geography, wildlife, and volcanic activity. The drive itself is part of the experience—gorgeous vistas of Misti volcano dominate the horizon, a constant reminder of the area’s volcanic activity. We loved the way the trip highlights the volcanic landscape, with the backside of Misti looming serenely in the background, adding a sense of drama and authenticity.

Breakfast Stop at Chiguata

One of the tour’s charming touches is the stop in Chiguata, a picturesque village where you can enjoy a continental breakfast. Expect juice, mate or coffee, cereal, and toast, served in a small local cafe or roadside stand. This is a welcome chance to stretch your legs and soak in some local atmosphere before heading into nature. Several reviews mention enjoying this quiet moment, appreciating how it sets the tone for the day.

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Into Nature: Flora, Fauna, and Volcano Views

After breakfast, the guide takes us into the Arequipa region’s wilderness. We loved the way we could observe the Andean forest of small trees and bushes called queñuales, which thrive in the high-altitude climate. This is a landscape that feels both stark and beautiful, with rugged mountains and open plains.

The guide points out the flora and fauna, including sightings of vicuñas and guanacos, both relatives of the llamas but wilder and more elusive. Several travelers commented on how the guide’s knowledge made the trip more engaging, spotting animals that we might have missed on our own, like the shy vicuña grazing at a distance.

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Reaching the Salinas Lagoon

Finally, after about two hours of scenic driving, you arrive at the Salinas Lagoon itself. Depending on the season and recent weather, the lagoon may be dry or filled with water. When dry, it creates a surreal white landscape, reminiscent of snow—but it’s salt! When wet, the lagoon shimmers, and the salt deposits along the shore are visible, offering excellent photo opportunities.

This salt flat is unique because it’s the only lagoon where you can see three types of flamingos—a highlight for birdwatchers. We loved how the flamingos wade through the shallow waters, their delicate pink plumage contrasting against the white salt flats. The presence of alpacas and llamas adds to the authenticity of the scene, often wandering near the shores as you walk around or relax on the salt crust.

Exploring the Area: Volcanoes and Thermal Baths

Beyond the lagoon, the tour includes exploration of the Lojen volcano area, where you can enjoy views of the volcanic landscape. Some reviews mention the thermal baths nearby, which are an optional stop for those wanting a warm soak after trekking around the salt flats. While not everyone takes advantage of this, it’s a nice addition if time permits.

Free Time and Lunch

After the walk and exploration, you’ll have some free time to find lunch—either in nearby eateries or packed food. The guide recommends local spots or gives suggestions for picnic options. The flexibility to choose how you spend this post-activities period is appreciated, especially if you want to relax or take more photos.

Return Journey and Drop-off

The return trip begins after lunch, with the bus heading back toward Arequipa. Expect to arrive at your hotel around 4:30 p.m., giving you plenty of time to relax after a full day of adventure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and a taste of local life. It’s a chance to see Peru’s high-altitude salt flats and landscapes that are less touristy than other destinations, like the Colca Canyon. The presence of colorful flamingos, the friendly llamas, and the dramatic volcanic backdrop make it a memorable trip.

Real Traveler Insights

One traveler commented, “The flamingos were so close and stunning; it was worth every penny.” Others appreciated the early start, noting, “It’s a long day, but you get to see so much in one trip—definitely worth waking up early.” Some cautioned that it can be cold in the morning, so dressing in layers is advisable.

Price and Value

At $40 per person, the price is quite reasonable considering it covers transportation, a bilingual guide, and all the natural sights. You’ll need to pay separately for meals, but the included breakfast and the flexibility to choose your lunch make it a good deal.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who are interested in nature and wildlife, enjoy mountain scenery, and want an authentic experience away from crowds. It’s suited for those comfortable with an early start, groups, and a full day on the road. Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone curious about salt flats and volcanic landscapes will find this tour compelling.

The Sum Up

This full-day excursion from Arequipa to the Salinas Lagoon offers a unique glimpse into the high-altitude salt flats, volcanic scenery, and birdlife of southern Peru. It balances scenic beauty with the chance to see flamingos, vicuñas, and llamas in their natural environment—something that truly sticks with you. The early start might be a challenge, but the payoff is a peaceful, less crowded experience with breathtaking views.

You’ll love the opportunity to walk among flamingos and see the salt flats in various states—dry or wet—each offering a different kind of beauty. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, adding value through their explanations and local insights.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who want to explore beyond the city and appreciate Peru’s diverse landscapes. It’s a fantastic choice for wildlife lovers, photographers, and those seeking a more intimate connection with the natural environment.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m., so you’ll need to wake up early but will be rewarded with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, families with children who enjoy wildlife and outdoor scenery should find it a memorable day. Just be prepared for the early start and a full day outside.

What should I wear?
Dressing in layers is recommended, especially since mornings can be chilly. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the salt flats and volcanic areas.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there is a stop in Chiguata for breakfast and free time for lunch, giving you the flexibility to choose what suits you.

Can I see flamingos?
Yes, this is one of the highlights—this lagoon is the only place where you can see three types of flamingos, making it a special birdwatching spot.

Is transportation comfortable?
The trip uses a bus with a guide who provides commentary. The drive offers scenic views, and the group size tends to be manageable, making it a comfortable way to see the region.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind if your plans change.

This tour from Arequipa to the Salinas Lagoon offers a compelling mix of scenery, wildlife, and culture for those who love adventure and authentic nature experiences. With a reasonable price and a meaningful itinerary, it’s an outing that’s sure to enrich your Peruvian journey.