Enjoy the captivating landscapes and therapeutic waters of Peru’s stunning Salinas and Yanaorco Lagoons combined with a rejuvenating visit to the renowned Lojen Thermal Baths. This full-day adventure promises to delight the senses, from the iconic volcanoes and diverse wildlife of Salina and Aguada Blanca National Park to the serene tranquility of the salt-rich lagoons and the soothing embrace of the mineral-rich thermal springs. Prepare to be enchanted as you discover the natural wonders and indulge in the ultimate relaxation this remarkable region has to offer.
Key Points
- The full-day tour includes visits to Salinas and Yanaorco lagoons, as well as the Lojen thermal baths, providing a diverse and immersive experience.
- Highlights of the tour include observing endemic wildlife like llamas, alpacas, and flamingos at the Salinas Lagoon, and relaxing in the therapeutic waters of the Lojen spas.
- The tour starts with a hearty breakfast in Mariano Melgar before exploring the Salina and Aguada Blanca National Park, home to stunning volcanoes like Misti, Pichu Pichu, and Chachan.
- The tour includes transportation, knowledgeable guides, and free cancellation, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.
- The best time to observe wildlife, such as alpacas, flamingos, and migratory birds, is during the rainy season from January to March.
Tour Overview
The tour of the Salinas and Yanaorco lagoons, coupled with a visit to the Lojen thermal baths, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the natural wonders of the Arequipa region. Spanning a full day, this immersive experience promises to delight travelers with its diverse itinerary.
Guests will start their day with a hearty breakfast in Mariano Melgar before embarking on a journey through the Salina and Aguada Blanca National Park, home to iconic volcanoes. Highlights include the stunning Salinas Lagoon, where they’ll witness endemic wildlife like llamas, alpacas, and flamingos.
The tour then takes a refreshing turn at the Lojen spas, where visitors can unwind in the therapeutic, 24-26 degree waters. With complimentary transportation, knowledgeable guides, and free cancellation, this tour promises an unforgettable day in Arequipa.
Itinerary Details
Guests depart at 6:00 am from their hotel or San Agustín Street, embarking on an immersive journey to discover the wonders of the Salinas and Yanaorco lagoons.
The first stop is Mariano Melgar, where they’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast before venturing into the Salina and Aguada Blanca National Park. Here, they’ll marvel at the stunning scenery dominated by the Misti, Pichu Pichu, and Chachan volcanoes.
The tour then takes them to the Salinas Lagoon, where they can witness the vibrant wetlands, salty beaches, and diverse endemic fauna, including llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and flamingos.
The final stop is the Lojen spas, where they can unwind in the therapeutic, 24-26 degree waters.
Departure and Breakfast
Bright and early at 6:00 am, travelers depart from their hotels or San Agustín Street, eager to embark on the day’s adventure to the Salinas and Yanaorco lagoons. After the initial pickup, they make their way to Mariano Melgar, where a hearty breakfast awaits, fueling them for the exciting explorations ahead. The breakfast menu offers a delightful array of options, as showcased in the table below:
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Peruvian Breakfast | Includes fresh bread, eggs, cheese, and a selection of local jams and marmalades | 15 S/ |
| Quinoa Porridge | Warm and nutritious quinoa porridge topped with seasonal fruit | 12 S/ |
| Avocado Toast | Crusty artisanal bread topped with creamy avocado and a sprinkle of sea salt | 18 S/ |
With their bellies full and spirits high, the group sets off to explore the natural wonders that await.
Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Park
After a hearty breakfast, the group heads out to explore the breathtaking Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Park, home to some of Peru’s most iconic volcanoes – Misti, Pichu Pichu, and Chachan.
As they enter the protected area, they’re immediately captivated by the park’s diverse landscapes and abundance of wildlife. Vast salt flats, known as the Moche Salt Flat, provide a stunning backdrop for photography, while the Salinas Lagoon showcases a wetland teeming with endemic species like llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and vibrant flamingos.
The group is in awe as they witness these magnificent creatures thriving in their natural habitat, making this a truly unforgettable experience in the heart of the Andes.
Salinas Lagoon and Moche Salt Flat
The Salinas Lagoon is a sprawling wetland that captivates visitors with its serene beauty and array of endemic wildlife. Situated within the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Park, this picturesque lagoon provides a sanctuary for a variety of species, including the iconic Andean flamingos whose vibrant plumage adds a touch of vibrancy to the scene.
Nearby, the Moche Salt Flat offers a unique photographic opportunity, with its vast expanse of glistening salt crystals creating a mesmerizing landscape. Visitors can wander through the flat, capturing the dramatic interplay of light and texture, or simply bask in the tranquility of this remarkable natural wonder.
The Salinas Lagoon and Moche Salt Flat are undoubtedly highlights of any visit to this stunning region.
Lojen Spas and Relaxation
Nestled within the picturesque landscape, the Lojen spas offer visitors a tranquil oasis to soak in the therapeutic waters and rejuvenate their senses.
Boasting temperatures that range from a soothing 24 to 26 degrees Celsius, these natural hot springs provide a blissful respite, allowing guests to unwind and bask in the restorative powers of the mineral-rich waters.
After a day of exploring the stunning Salinas and Yanaorco lagoons, the Lojen spas are the perfect place to relax and recharge.
Surrounded by the majestic Andes mountains, the spas create a serene atmosphere where visitors can enjoy the healing properties of the thermal springs and emerge feeling refreshed and invigorated.
San José De Uzuña Dam and Yanaorco Lagoon
Alongside the Yanaorco Lagoon, the San José de Uzuña Dam offers visitors a chance to explore the region’s natural beauty further.
With its serene waters and stunning Andean backdrop, the dam provides a tranquil respite for those seeking a more leisurely experience during the tour.
Visitors can enjoy free time to wander around the area, taking in the serene atmosphere and snapping photos of the breathtaking landscapes.
For the more adventurous, the opportunity to try kayaking on the dam’s waters adds an extra layer of excitement to the day’s activities.
Whether relaxing by the shore or paddling across the glassy surface, the San José de Uzuña Dam is a delightful addition to the tour’s diverse itinerary.
Inclusions and Wildlife Observation
This tour offers a comprehensive package, including pickup from central Arequipa hotels, transportation by bus or minibus, and an English and Spanish speaking guide to enhance the experience. The entrance fee to the Lojen hot springs, where visitors can enjoy therapeutic waters ranging from 24-26 degrees Celsius, is also included. On top of that, the best time to observe the diverse wildlife, such as alpacas, flamingos, and migratory birds, is during the rainy season from January to March, when the lagoons are bustling with activity.
| Wildlife Observed | January | February | March |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alpacas | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Flamingos | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Migratory Birds | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Group Size for This Tour?
The group size for this engaging tour may vary, but it typically accommodates small to medium-sized groups, allowing for an intimate and personalized experience. Travelers can expect a comfortable and enriching adventure with knowledgeable guides and like-minded explorers.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. This allows them to enjoy a picnic-style lunch while taking in the stunning scenery of the lagoons and hot springs. However, a tasty breakfast and lunch are already included in the tour price.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour?
Yes, there may be options to extend the tour. Customers can inquire with the tour operator about adding extra activities or extending the duration to explore more of the stunning natural landscapes and thermal spa facilities in the area.
Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?
The tour operator offers discounted rates for children and seniors. Families and older travelers can enjoy significant savings on this immersive nature and cultural experience. Contact the operator for specific pricing details and to book your adventure.
Can I Request a Specific Language Guide?
Yes, you can request a specific language guide for your tour. The tour provider offers both English and Spanish speaking guides, so you can choose the language that best suits your needs and preferences.
Recap
This captivating tour combines the breathtaking natural beauty of the Salinas and Yanaorco Lagoons with the soothing relaxation of the Lojen Thermal Baths.
Enjoy the stunning Andean landscapes, spot diverse wildlife, and unwind in the therapeutic mineral waters, creating an unforgettable day of adventure and rejuvenation.
Don’t miss the chance to experience this picturesque and rejuvenating adventure.
