Lagoon and Salinas National Reserve in Arequipa

Exploring the Lagoon and Salinas National Reserve in Arequipa

This full-day excursion in the Arequipa region takes you to some of the most photogenic and intriguing landscapes Peru has to offer. For $37 per person, you’ll visit the Chiguata viewpoint, the vast salt flat behind PichuPichu, and the Salinas Lagoon, all with a knowledgeable guide by your side. It’s a tour that balances scenic vistas and natural wonder, perfect for travelers craving authentic landscapes away from crowded tourist spots.

What we really appreciated about this tour is how it combines spectacular views of volcanoes from the Mirador de los Volcanes with the surreal beauty of salt flats and lagoons, giving you a well-rounded experience of the high Andes. Plus, the optional visit to mini thermal pools offers a chance to relax after a day of exploring.

The main consideration? The drive up to the reserve involves some little difficulty, especially if you’re sensitive to winding roads or altitude changes. It’s not a grueling trek, but a heads-up can help you prepare. This tour suits those interested in landscape photography, nature, and authentic Peruvian highland environments. If you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly day trip with stunning visuals, this will fit the bill nicely.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Panoramic volcanoes from Chiguata viewpoint are a highlight.
• Unique Landscapes: Salt flats and lagoons create incredible reflections and photo moments.
• Accessible Convenience: Includes transport, guide, and hotel pickup for smoother planning.
• Good Value: At $37, it offers a lot of scenic variety without breaking the bank.
• Optional Relaxation: Mini thermal pools add a soothing end to your day.
• Altitude & Road Conditions: Be prepared for a bit of a climb and winding roads.

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Detailed Review of the Lagoon and Salinas National Reserve Tour

Starting the Day: Early Departure and Morning Travel

The tour begins early, with pickup from centrally located hotels in Arequipa, which makes logistics straightforward. We left around 6:00 a.m., an early start that rewards you with quieter roads and cooler morning air. The drive itself is part of the adventure—winding through highland roads with views of distant volcanoes, creating anticipation for what’s ahead.

The vehicle is comfortable, and the guide provides insightful commentary in both Spanish and English, making the ride informative as well as scenic. We appreciated the flexible “reserve & pay later” policy, which adds peace of mind if you’re still finalizing your plans.

First Stop: Chiguata Viewpoint and Breakfast

Arriving at the Chiguata viewpoint around 7:30 a.m. is a real treat. This spot offers a full panorama of the Andean volcanoes behind Arequipa, including the iconic Misti and others. The crisp mountain air, coupled with sweeping vistas, makes for stunning photos. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of these volcanoes, giving us context beyond just the visual impact.

A simple breakfast here helps energize you before the day’s main activities. It’s a good opportunity to stretch your legs and soak in the high-altitude scenery.

Mirador de los Volcanes: A High-Altitude Perspective

At 9:00 a.m., the tour stops briefly at the Mirador de los Volcanes. This stop amplifies the experience with close-up views of the cratered volcanoes and rugged terrain. It’s a quick but worthwhile photo op, especially if you’re keen on capturing the volcanic landscape.

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Salt Flats and the PichuPichu Region

By 10:00 a.m., you arrive at the salt flat behind PichuPichu, a vast, white expanse that stretches as far as the eye can see. This area is a hub for saltpeter production, and you’ll see signs of salt extraction and processing. The environment here is almost otherworldly, with stark white salt contrasting against the dark volcanic mountains in the background.

We loved the sense of scale in this landscape, perfect for wide-angle photography. It’s a quiet, open space that invites reflection on natural resources and the stark beauty of high-altitude deserts. Reviewers mention that the environment “looks like a different planet,” which is a good way to describe the surreal landscape.

Salinas Lagoon: The Water Mirrors

Next, at 10:30 a.m., the tour takes you to the Salinas Lagoon. This shallow, high-altitude body of water creates pristine mirrored reflections of the sky and surrounding mountains, especially on clear days. The lagoon’s calm waters often look like a giant mirror—ideal for photos and simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Visitors say, “You can’t beat the reflection,” and it’s true; the serenity here is captivating.

Wildlife and Nature Reserve: Bird and Camelid Spotting

At 11:00 a.m., the group visits the High Andean Camelid and Bird Reserve. Here, you’ll see llamas and alpacas roaming freely, along with various bird species native to the high Andes. It’s a good chance to learn about the local fauna and see these animals up close, often in their natural habitat.

Optional Thermal Pools

By 11:30 a.m., there’s an option to enjoy mini thermal pools. If you’re feeling adventurous or want a relaxing break, these pools offer a warm dip amid the high-altitude environment. Reviewers mention that the pools are modest but pleasant, and they provide a nice way to unwind before heading back.

Return Journey: Back to Arequipa

The tour wraps up with a return to the city around 12:00 p.m., arriving by 1:30 p.m. This schedule makes it easy to plan your afternoon or continue exploring Arequipa.

Practical Details and Value

Transportation and Guides: The included transport is comfortable and reliable, with multilingual guides providing a steady stream of information. The guides’ explanations help make the landscape more meaningful, especially if you’re unfamiliar with high-altitude environments.

Cost and Inclusions: For $37, you get a full day of exploration, a guide, transport, and hotel pickup. The main expense not included is the entrance fee of 10 soles, which is reasonable considering the overall experience. The tour does not include meals, so planning a packed lunch or eating in Arequipa beforehand makes sense.

Timing and Group Size: The schedule is tightly organized, with most stops lasting about 30 to 60 minutes. Smaller groups tend to make for a more relaxed experience, but larger groups are common. The early start might be challenging if you’re not a morning person, but it pays off with cooler weather and fewer crowds.

What’s Worth Noting:
– The drive involves some bit of difficulty, mainly due to winding roads and altitude. If you’re prone to motion sickness or altitude sickness, take precautions.
– The tour is best suited for travelers interested in landscape photography, high-altitude environments, and natural scenery. It’s not ideal for those seeking a leisurely, relaxed day at lower elevations.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see a different side of Peru—vast salt flats, reflective lagoons, and volcanic landscapes. It’s perfect if you value authentic scenery and are prepared for a bit of altitude and winding roads. You’ll enjoy the quiet beauty of high-altitude deserts and the opportunity for great photos.

If you’re traveling on a budget but want a comprehensive day-trip experience, this tour offers solid value. It also suits those who prefer guided experiences that take care of logistics, so you can focus on soaking in the views.

FAQ

How much does the tour cost?
It costs $37 per person, with an additional 10 soles for the entrance fee.

What is included in the tour?
Transportation, a bilingual guide, and hotel pickup are included.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat in Arequipa before or after the trip.

How early does the tour start?
The tour departs around 6:00 a.m., so be prepared for an early morning.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7.5 hours, from departure to return.

Is there any physical difficulty involved?
There is a little difficulty related to winding roads and high altitude, so travelers sensitive to these should plan accordingly.

Can I relax in thermal pools?
Yes, there’s an optional stop at mini thermal pools around 11:30 a.m. for some relaxation.

Is the photography good here?
Absolutely. The salt flats, lagoons, and volcanoes provide perfect photo opportunities.

What’s the best time for clear reflections?
Clear weather is best; sunny days offer the most striking mirrored images in the lagoon.

Who should avoid this tour?
Those with significant altitude sickness or who dislike winding roads might find this less enjoyable.

In the end, this tour offers a rare glimpse into Peru’s high-altitude landscapes—beautiful, surreal, and worth every effort to get there. Whether you’re snapping photos of the salt flats, marveling at the volcanoes, or simply soaking in the serenity of the lagoon, it’s a day that stays with you long after you leave. Perfect for intrepid explorers and nature lovers alike, this excursion proves that some of the most compelling sights are just a day away from Arequipa’s city streets.

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