Salineras de Maras Guide
Ancient Salt Mines: A Living Landscape at Salineras de Maras Guide
The Salineras de Maras, or Maras Salt Mines, are a breathtaking sight to behold. Located near the town of Maras in the Sacred Valley of Peru, these thousands of individual salt pans cascade down a hillside, creating a stunning mosaic of white and earth tones. This ancient salt-extraction site has been in continuous operation since Inca times, providing a fascinating glimpse into traditional methods and a unique cultural landscape. The history of the Salineras de Maras dates back to pre-Inca times, with evidence suggesting that salt extraction began here centuries ago. The Incas further developed the system, diverting a saltwater spring from the mountainside into a network of channels that feed the individual salt pans. Each pan is owned and managed by a local family, who carefully control the flow of water and harvest the salt crystals as they evaporate under the Andean sun. This traditional system has been passed down through generations, preserving a vital part of the region's cultural heritage. Visitors to the Salineras de Maras can walk along the narrow paths between the salt pans, observing the salt-extraction process firsthand. It's a unique opportunity to witness a living tradition and learn about the techniques used to harvest the salt. You can also purchase locally produced salt, which is known for its distinctive flavor and mineral content. The views from the salt mines are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding valley and mountains. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the paths can be slippery.
Transportation
To reach Salineras de Maras, you can take a bus or taxi from Cusco to the town of Maras. From Maras, you can hire a taxi or take a colectivo (shared taxi) to the salt mines. Alternatively, many tour operators in Cusco offer day trips to the Sacred Valley that include a visit to the Salineras de Maras. Some tours also include a stop at the nearby Inca site of Moray. From Cusco, you can take a bus to Urubamba. * Pavitos Street: Buses to Urubamba. From Urubamba, you can take a bus to Maras. * Main street: Buses to Maras.