Salinas Salt Flats Tour Full Day – Arequipa

Step 1: Morning Departure and Scenic Route via Chiguata: We begin our journey at 07:00 AM with a pickup from your hotel in Arequipa. Leaving the city, we drive toward the traditional district of Chiguata. Here, the landscape transitions into beautiful pre-Inca terraces and forests of native Queñua trees, all backdropped by the steep south face of the Misti volcano.

Step 2: Arrival at the Salinas Salt Flats and Flamingo Spotting: As we ascend into the National Reserve at 4,300 meters, the dramatic expanse of the Salinas Salt Flat opens before us. We will explore the banks of the lagoon to admire the local colonies of three distinct species of Andean flamingos. Your guide will help you spot other wildlife, including wild vicuñas, llamas, and grey Andean foxes.

Step 3: Creative Photography Session and Salt Canyons: We will drive right out toward the salt flats. Depending on the season, you will either walk over a blindingly white, cracked salt crust or stand over an active water mirror that reflects the clouds and the active Ubinas volcano flawlessly. We will take ample time to execute a fun, perspective-bending photography session. Afterward, we visit the small artisanal hot springs and the local community where salt is traditionally harvested.

Step 4: Traditional Lunch and Return to Arequipa: We stop at a rustic local village to enjoy a traditional lunch featuring regional flavors. Following lunch, we board our private transport and enjoy a smooth, scenic descent back down the Andes, arriving at downtown Arequipa around 04:30 PM.