Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve

Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve is a protected area in the high Andes of the Arequipa Region in southern Peru, set aside to conserve high-altitude wetlands and native Andean wildlife. It protects extensive puna grasslands, saline and freshwater lagoons, and volcanic uplands important for regional biodiversity.

The reserve features saline and freshwater lagoons that support waterfowl including flamingos and native camelids such as vicuñas, plus broad expanses of high-altitude steppe. Roads and dirt tracks cross parts of the reserve, allowing scenic drives and stops at lookout points; wildlife observation and landscape photography are common visitor activities.

The area was designated and is managed by the Peruvian government as a national reserve to conserve wetlands and grazing ecosystems and to regulate use by local pastoral communities. Management focuses on habitat protection for key species and on balancing traditional grazing with conservation objectives.

The reserve lies in the highlands surrounding the city of Arequipa and occupies volcanic plateaus and valleys in the Arequipa administrative region. Much of the landscape sits well above 3,000 meters and is characterized by open grassland, salt pans, and mountain-backed lagoons.

• Altitude: Many observation points sit above 3,000 meters elevation, so visitors should prepare for high-altitude conditions and strong sun.
• Best time to visit: Dry season months typically give the most reliable road access and clearer skies for wildlife viewing and photography.

What to See #

• Salinas and Lagunillas lagoons: A series of high Andean saline and freshwater lagoons that are important for waterfowl and local pastoralism; the best-known are Salinas and Lagunillas.
• Puna and volcanic terrain: High puna grasslands and volcanic slopes used for seasonal grazing and as habitat for wild camelids and avifauna.