Arequipa: Salinas Lagoon and Aguada Blanca Reserve Excursion

Andes Mountains, Peru, Peru



Explore Salinas Lagoon, Chiguata, and Lojen Hot Springs. See flamingos, alpacas, and volcano views while enjoying authentic Andean landscapes near Arequipa.

Highlights

  • Enjoy panoramic views of the Chiguata Volcano and Andean scenery.
  • Visit Salinas Lagoon and observe flamingos, llamas, and alpacas.
  • Relax in the Lojen Hot Springs surrounded by peaceful mountain views.
  • Explore Chiguata and visit its historic colonial-style church.
  • Enjoy traditional local breakfast and lunch in the village of Chiguata.

Description

Escape the city and discover the stunning Andean landscapes surrounding Arequipa on this full-day experience to Salinas Lagoon and the Aguada Blanca highlands. Travel through scenic mountain roads, traditional villages, volcanic viewpoints, and natural hot springs while exploring one of the region’s most beautiful natural areas. Your adventure begins with hotel pickup in Arequipa before heading toward the picturesque district of Chiguata. Along the route, stop at panoramic viewpoints to admire the impressive volcanoes surrounding the city, including Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu, perfect for unforgettable photographs. Continue to the traditional village of Chiguata, known for its peaceful atmosphere and colonial-style church located beside the main square. Here, enjoy a traditional local breakfast before continuing deeper into the Andean landscape. As the journey climbs above 4,000 meters, stop at Alto Simbral, a high-altitude viewpoint where you can observe native plants such as Queñua, Yareta, and Tola, species adapted to the extreme mountain environment. Arrive at the spectacular Salinas Lagoon, a seasonal saltwater lagoon surrounded by volcanoes and wide-open landscapes. Depending on the season, admire the reflective waters of the lagoon or the extensive salt flats that create unique photo opportunities. This area is also home to Andean wildlife including flamingos, vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas, which can often be seen roaming freely throughout the reserve. During the dry season, visit the traditional salt extraction areas used by local communities for generations. Continue the experience with a stop at the Lojen mini-volcano and enjoy time at the relaxing Lojen Hot Springs, surrounded by peaceful natural scenery. After the excursion, return to Chiguata for lunch before traveling back to Arequipa in the afternoon. This tour is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and travelers looking to experience the authentic beauty of the Peruvian Andes beyond the traditional tourist routes.

Includes

Tourist transportation Official bilingual tourist guide

Excludes

Ecopark entrance: S/5.00 soles Reserve entrance: S/8.00 soles Logen entrance: S/10.00 soles Meals: Breakfast and Lunch Snacks and drinks during the tour

Important Information

  • Wear appropriate clothing for hiking Bring warm clothing as it gets quite cold Sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended Bring water as we will be doing short hikes Bring a hat or cap Pack light and bring swimwear for the hot springs

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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