Attraction Guide: Salinas de Maras, Salinas, Peru

Salinas de Maras Guide

Salinas de Maras: Ancient Salt Mines of the Sacred Valley Guide

Prepare to be amazed by the Salinas de Maras, a breathtaking landscape of terraced salt ponds nestled in the Sacred Valley of Peru. This ancient salt mine has been in operation since Inca times, and the traditional methods of salt extraction are still practiced today. The shimmering white ponds, cascading down the hillside, create a stunning visual spectacle that is both beautiful and historically significant. A visit to Salinas de Maras is a journey back in time, offering a glimpse into the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Inca civilization. The salt springs at Maras were discovered long before the Inca Empire, but it was the Incas who developed the sophisticated system of terraced ponds that we see today. The salty water, originating from an underground spring, is channeled into the ponds, where it evaporates under the sun, leaving behind crystallized salt. The salt is then harvested by local families, who have inherited their plots from their ancestors. The different colors of the ponds, ranging from white to pink to brown, are due to the varying mineral content of the water and the stage of evaporation. Wander through the narrow paths between the salt ponds, marveling at the intricate network of channels and terraces. Observe the local workers as they harvest the salt using traditional tools and techniques. You can even purchase bags of the unique Maras salt directly from the producers. The salt is known for its distinctive flavor and is used in a variety of Peruvian dishes. While there isn't a specific restaurant at the salt mines, you can find delicious Peruvian cuisine in the nearby town of Maras or in the Sacred Valley, featuring dishes seasoned with the very salt you've seen being harvested.