Tour of Salinas and Yanaorco Lagoons + Lojen Thermal Baths

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Peru’s southern highlands, the tour of Salinas and Yanaorco Lagoons, coupled with a relaxing visit to Lojen Thermal Baths, promises an unforgettable experience. Departing from Arequipa at the crack of dawn, adventurous travelers will enjoy the captivating wetlands of Salinas Lagoon, where they’ll encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including the iconic flamingos and vicuñas. After indulging in the rejuvenating mineral-rich waters of Lojen, the journey continues to the picturesque Yanaorco Lagoon, where an optional lunch by the serene dam offers a chance to savor the local flavors and soak in the serene ambiance. This enriching excursion seamlessly blends natural wonders, cultural exploration, and personal rejuvenation, leaving participants with lasting memories and a desire to uncover more of Peru’s hidden gems.

Key Points

• This tour provides an immersive experience exploring the Salinas Lagoon, home to diverse endemic wildlife like llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and flamingos.
• Visitors can capture breathtaking photographs of the Moche salt flat, with its expansive white expanse contrasting against the surrounding mountains.
• The tour includes a relaxing stop at the Lojen thermal baths, where travelers can unwind in the naturally-occurring hot springs with therapeutic mineral-rich waters.
• Yanaorco Lagoon and Dam offer the opportunity for a scenic lunch and optional kayaking activity, surrounded by the region’s natural beauty.
• Travelers have consistently provided positive feedback on the tour’s organization, guides, and transportation, with the stunning landscapes of Salinas Lagoon being a major highlight.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning Salinas and Yanaorco lagoons, as well as the relaxing Lojen thermal baths. Priced at $30 per person, the one-day excursion departs from Arequipa at 6 AM.

After a breakfast stop, travelers will visit the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, home to iconic volcanoes. They’ll discover the Salinas Lagoon’s wetlands and salt beaches, observe native wildlife, and capture photos at the Moche salt flat.

The tour then heads to the Lojen hot springs (24-26°C) for a rejuvenating soak. Finally, travelers will explore the San José de Uzuña dam and Yanaorco lagoon, with optional lunch and kayaking activities, before returning to Arequipa between 4:30 and 5 PM.

Itinerary Highlights

Departing Arequipa at a crisp 6:00 a.m., the tour embarks on a captivating journey through the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, home to the majestic Misti, Pichu Pichu, and Chachani volcanoes. Guests will explore the Salinas Lagoon, with its wetlands and salt beaches, and witness the endemic wildlife, including llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, flamingos, and migratory birds. The tour then visits the Moche salt flat, offering breathtaking photo opportunities, before relaxing at the Lojen thermal baths, where the soothing waters range from 24-26°C. Afterward, the group explores the San José de Uzuña dam and Yanaorco lagoon, with options for lunch and kayaking.

Destination	Highlights
Salinas Lagoon	Witness wetlands, salt beaches, and endemic wildlife
Moche Salt Flat	Capture stunning photography
Lojen Thermal Baths	Relax in soothing waters (24-26°C)
San José de Uzuña Dam & Yanaorco Lagoon	Explore the area, enjoy lunch, and opt for kayaking

Salinas Lagoon Exploration

Frequently, the tour group arrives at the stunning Salinas Lagoon, a captivating wetland nestled within the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve.

Visitors are often awed by the serene, mirror-like surface of the lagoon, which reflects the surrounding mountains and volcanoes. The guide leads the group on a leisurely exploration, pointing out the diverse array of endemic wildlife that calls this habitat home.

Flocks of graceful flamingos wade in the shallow waters, while llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas graze along the salt-encrusted shoreline.

Guests have ample opportunities to photograph the breathtaking scenery and observe the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem.

Endemic Fauna Observation

As the tour group explores the salt-rimmed shores of Salinas Lagoon, they’re treated to a captivating display of the region’s endemic wildlife.

Herds of majestic llamas and alpacas graze peacefully, their wooly coats shimmering in the sunlight. Nearby, the graceful vicuñas, a relative of the llama, dart across the landscape with effortless agility.

The pièce de résistance, however, is the vibrant flamingos that wade through the shallow waters, their striking pink plumage reflected in the mirrored surface.

Migratory birds, such as the Andean goose, also make their home in the wetlands, adding to the diversity of the natural spectacle.

The group observes this living tableau with awe, immersed in the rich tapestry of Salinas Lagoon’s thriving ecosystem.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Moche Salt Flat Photography

After exploring the serene Salinas Lagoon, the tour group ventures to the captivating Moche salt flat.

This expansive salt-encrusted landscape offers a unique photographic opportunity. The blinding white expanse contrasts dramatically with the surrounding mountains, creating a striking visual effect.

Travelers can capture the surreal, lunar-like scenery, with the option to venture out onto the salt flat itself. The guide provides tips on framing the shots and making the most of the lighting conditions.

Photographers can experiment with different angles, compositions, and exposure settings to accentuate the flat’s mesmerizing textures and patterns.

This stop on the tour allows visitors to enjoy the breathtaking natural wonder of the Moche salt flat and bring home unforgettable images.

Lojen Thermal Baths Relaxation

Next, the tour group ventures to the soothing Lojen thermal baths. Located just a short drive from the Salinas Lagoon, the baths offer a rejuvenating escape.

The naturally-occurring hot springs maintain a comfortable temperature between 24-26°C, perfect for a relaxing soak. Visitors can enjoy the mineral-rich waters, which are known for their therapeutic properties.

The tranquil setting, surrounded by rugged mountains, provides a serene atmosphere for unwinding. After exploring the stunning landscapes, the Lojen thermal baths offer a chance to rest and recharge before continuing the tour.

Guests can spend as much time as they desire, soaking up the peaceful ambiance and natural benefits of the hot springs.

Yanaorco Lagoon and Dam

The tour group then ventures to the serene Yanaorco lagoon and dam. Here, they can enjoy a relaxing lunch and explore the picturesque surroundings.

The dam is a prominent feature, providing a scenic backdrop to the tranquil lagoon. Visitors may even have the opportunity to try their hand at kayaking, gliding across the calm waters.

The lagoon is home to a variety of birdlife, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

With its beautiful natural scenery and leisure activities, the Yanaorco lagoon and dam provide a peaceful respite from the day’s earlier adventures.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Traveler feedback and ratings paint a positive picture of the Salinas and Yanaorco lagoons tour experience.

Based on 4 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4 out of 5. Customers have expressed satisfaction with the organization, guides, and transportation provided.

Travelers from Canada, the Netherlands, and Germany have all enjoyed the tour, highlighting the scenic landscapes of Salinas Lagoon and the opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.

The tour’s ideal timing during the rainy season, from January to March, when the water mirror effect is spectacular, has also been a notable highlight for visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The group size for this tour is not specified in the provided information. The details focus on the itinerary, pricing, inclusions, and highlights without mentioning the group size. Without further details, the group size remains uncertain.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The tour has no specific age restrictions. Travelers of all ages can participate, though young children may require parental supervision. The tour is suitable for a wide range of participants, from families to solo adventurers.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a local breakfast and lunch are already included in the tour price, so bringing additional provisions may not be necessary. The guide can provide more details upon request.

Do We Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Activities?

For the activities, travelers don’t need any special equipment. The tour provides all the necessary gear, including life jackets for the kayaking at Yanaorco lagoon. Travelers should wear comfortable clothing and bring sun protection.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs During the Tour?

There are a few additional costs during the tour. The entrance fee to the Lojen hot springs is 5 S/ (2 US$) per person. Other than that, the tour price covers all transportation, meals, and guide services.

Recap

The tour of Salinas and Yanaorco Lagoons, coupled with a rejuvenating visit to Lojen Thermal Baths, offers an unforgettable experience. Visitors can enjoy the stunning natural landscapes, observe diverse wildlife, and indulge in the soothing mineral-rich waters. This enriching excursion promises captivating vistas and a chance to disconnect from the everyday, leaving participants refreshed and invigorated.

You can check if your dates are available here: