Salinas Lagoon and Lojen hot springs

• Warm jacket or fleece (temperatures are cold at 4,300 to 4,500 meters)
• Waterproof jacket or rain poncho (weather can change quickly)
• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking shoes
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (strong sun at high altitude)
• Swimsuit and small towel for the hot springs
• Extra clothes and socks
• Small backpack for the day
• Water bottle
• Snacks
• Cash in soles for entrance fees, lunch, tips, and optional activities
• Personal medication (for altitude)
• Camera or phone for photos

Join this amazing full-day tour to the Salinas Lagoon and Lojen hot springs. Located at a high altitude of 4,300 meters (14,108 feet) above sea level, this tour is perfect for nature lovers who want to see wild animals, stunning landscapes, and local culture without traveling too far from Arequipa.

What to expect on our Salinas Lagoon and Lojen hot springs tour

This tour offers a mix of natural beauty, wildlife spotting, and cultural experiences. You will see flamingos, llamas, and vicuñas, visit local villages, witness volcanic activity, and even relax in natural thermal waters. The high Andean landscapes create a breathtaking backdrop for an unforgettable day.

Salinas Lagoon – A high-altitude salt lake

Salinas Lagoon is a large salt lake located in the Arequipa region, sitting at 4,300 meters (14,108 feet). It changes with the seasons:

• Rainy season (January – March): The lake fills with water, creating a stunning mirror effect. This attracts flamingos, which make the lagoon even more beautiful.
• Dry season (April – December): The water evaporates, leaving behind white salt flats that create a surreal landscape.

You will also see llamas and vicuñas roaming freely. The area is an important habitat for wildlife, making it a great spot for great photos and nature lovers.

Salar de Aguas Calientes – A unique salt flat

Near the lake, you will visit the Salar de Aguas Calientes, a salt flat where the ground is covered in white salt crusts. This area is still used by local people for salt harvesting, following traditional methods passed down for generations. Here, you can learn about sustainable salt extraction while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Volcán Lojen – A natural hot spring, not a true volcano

One of the highlights of this tour is Visiting Lojen, often called “Mini Volcano Lojen”, though it is not a true volcano. Instead, it is a geothermal area with fumaroles (steam vents) and bubbling mineral-rich waters, similar to a geyser. The hot steam and warm pools in this area are created by underground volcanic activity.

Swim in the natural Lojen hot springs

Near Lojen, you will find natural hot springs where you can go for a swim and enjoy the warm, mineral-rich waters. These thermal baths are believed to have healing properties, helping to relax muscles and improve circulation. Imagine soaking in warm water while surrounded by majestic Andean landscapes—a truly unique and relaxing experience at high altitude.

Local culture and Andean traditions

A special part of this tour is visiting Chiguata, a small Andean village. Here, you will have breakfast offered by a local family. This is a great chance to see how people in the highlands live, including their agriculture, handicrafts, and customs.

Why join our Salinas Lagoon and Lojen hot springs tour?

• See amazing landscapes at over 4,300 meters (14,108 feet) above sea level.
• Watch flamingos and Andean wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Visit local communities and learn about traditional salt harvesting.
• Experience the unique “Mini Volcano Lojen”, a natural geothermal site.
• Swim in warm natural hot springs and enjoy the healing benefits of volcanic minerals.
• Enjoy breakfast and experience Andean culture.

This Salinas Lagoon and Lojen hot springs tour is a perfect day trip from Arequipa, offering a mix of nature, culture, and adventure at high altitude. If you love stunning views, wildlife, and relaxing in natural hot springs, this tour is a must-do!