Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reservation, Protected natural reserve in Arequipa and Moquegua, Peru.
Salinas y Aguada Blanca sits in the Andes above 4,000 meters and covers grassland, shallow lakes and volcanic peaks. The area stretches between the departments of Arequipa and Moquegua and takes in several large bodies of water as well as broad plains ringed by mountains.
The formal designation came in the late seventies to secure water supply and grazing land. Two decades later, two important lakes gained international recognition as wetlands.
The name comes from the broad salt flats and the pale, reflective ground across this highland area. Herders live here year-round and use the grasslands following centuries-old methods that remain in place today.
The altitude demands adjustment, so move slowly and drink plenty of water. Warm clothing is necessary because weather shifts quickly and temperatures drop sharply even during the day.
All four South American camelid species share this highland pasture and are often seen together on the same stretches of land. Flamingos wade through the lakes and feed on tiny organisms that give the water its reddish tint.
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