Arequipa provides many great sightseeing opportunities for visitors from all over the world and those who choose to spend a few days in the “white city” will get to see some unique gems afforded to travelers. For visitors who have the time and make the effort, Lake Salinas provides remarkable views. Located both in the Salinas National Reserve and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, the lake and the surrounding area provides a unique vista of the natural landscapes, sweeping meadows and its superb flora and fauna.
Setting out early is a must as the journey takes approximately 3 hours from Arequipa itself; however, it is totally worth the trip. This part of the Arequipa region provides visitors with unmarred views of the Volcanoes El Misti and Picchu Picchu and spectacular does not even begin to cover it.
While the lake floods in the wet season, note that in the months of March to December, the lake completely dries out into a salt flat. Both forms provide interesting insights into the area.
Particularly for bird watchers, this lake is a great opportunity to get up close and personal with the birds that inhabit the area, including Andean flamingos, Andean goose, Andean ducks, hummingbirds, condors, eagles, canasteros, anas puna, swans, Andean avocet and more. Aside from the wide number of bird species living here, you will also see many vicuna, llamas, guanacos, alpaca, deer, rabbits and possibly Andean puma.
A trip to Salinas Lake allows you to see how the locals work alongside nature, specifically the farmers and the salt workers who call this area home. Much of the economy focuses on the camelids which thrive on the vegetation in the area hence the large numbers located in the near vicinity. A visit to Lake Salinas also allows you to take in the pre-Inca terraces which surround this vast area.
Regardless of the month you visit, Lake Salinas and the surrounding national parks are a must-see on the Arequipa circuit. If you would like more information on our personalized trips to Lake Salinas, contact us for more details.
