Salinas & Aguada Blanca Reserve Day Trip from Arequipa

Summary

Wildlife Watching & Volcano Views in Salinas Reserve

You’ll spot wild vicuñas and flamingos, walk near a mini-volcano, and soak up mountain air—all with a local guide who knows every twist of this high-altitude reserve.

What’s the experience like?

The day started early with a knock at my hotel door—our driver was right on time. Leaving Arequipa behind, we wound our way past the city’s edge, catching the first real glimpse of Misti Volcano after about half an hour. Its cone looked almost too perfect against the pale morning sky. The air felt crisp through the window, and I remember the faint smell of eucalyptus as we passed small roadside stands selling coca leaves and snacks.

About ninety minutes in, the landscape shifted. Suddenly, there were herds of vicuñas grazing by the roadside—so close you could see their eyelashes if you looked hard enough. Our guide, Juan, pointed out how to tell them apart from alpacas and llamas (it’s all in the neck and fur). We stopped at a quiet lake where pink flamingos—locals call them pariwanas—stood ankle-deep in the water. It was oddly silent except for their soft calls and the wind rustling through tough grass.

We spent three hours inside Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, hopping out at different viewpoints. There’s a tiny volcano here—not something you’d expect—and you can actually walk up to its rim. The ground felt warm underfoot from old lava flows. After snapping photos and sharing some hot tea poured from a thermos (the wind picks up fast), we made our way back to Arequipa. The drive home took another couple of hours; most folks dozed off or just watched the sun dip behind distant peaks.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Salinas and Aguada Blanca Reserve Tour

• Travel from Arequipa to Salinas and Aguada Blanca Reserve
• Enjoy breathtaking views and wildlife

Top questions

How long does the Salinas & Aguada Blanca tour take?

The whole trip lasts about 8 hours: 2.5 hours each way driving, plus 3 hours exploring inside the reserve.

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes! It’s good for all fitness levels and there are infant seats available if needed.

What wildlife will I see in Salinas y Aguada Blanca?

You’ll likely spot vicuñas, alpacas, llamas, and birds like flamingos (pariwanas) around the lakes.

Do I need to bring food or water?

It’s smart to pack snacks and water since there aren’t many shops in the reserve itself.

What’s included

Your entrance ticket to the mini-volcano is covered. You’ll ride in an air-conditioned vehicle with a bilingual guide who shares stories along the way. Infant seats are available if you need them—just let us know when booking!