On August 9, 1979 through Law (D.S.) N 070-79-AA, the National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca was established in the departments of Arequipa, in the provinces of Caylloma and General Snchez Cerro. It has a surface of 366,936 has.

This reserve encompasses lakes, volcanoes and high mountains such as Misti (5821 m), Chachani (5075 m) and Pichupichu (5440 m). The reserve holds typical fauna species such as the Yareta (Azorella sp.), the queual (Polylepis sp.) and the keapo (Parastrephia lepidophyla), which is used by the population as fuel.

In this area diverse types of mammals and birds live. The Taruca (Hippocamelus antisensis), the wolf (Pseudalopex culpaeus) and the vicuna (Vicugna vicugna) are but examples. The better places to observe the birds and flamingoes in their natural habitat are the Laguna de Salinas and Laguna del Indio. Vicunas can be seen in Pampa Caahuas and Tocra, and in the Colca canyon in the province of Caylloma. The purpose of this Reserve is to protect the wild flora and fauna of the area.