The Salineras de Maras in Peru are one of the most fascinating sights in the Sacred Valley. These ancient salt mines, still in use today, cover the mountainside with thousands of shimmering pools that sparkle under the Andean sun. A visit here combines history, culture, and breathtaking views in a way few places can.
What are the Salineras de Maras?
The Salineras are made up of more than 3,000 salt ponds. They sit near the town of Maras, about 40 kilometers from Cusco. Each pond is fed by a natural spring that carries saltwater from deep underground. When the water evaporates, pure crystals of salt remain. Families from Maras still harvest these ponds today using traditional methods that date back to the Inca Empire. To learn more about the cultural and natural beauty of the area, check out Peru Travel’s official page on Maras and Moray.
Why Is Maras Salt Unique?
Maras salt is rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. As a result, it has a distinctive taste and added health benefits. Its light pink and white colors also set it apart from common table salt. Travelers can buy many varieties, from fine cooking salt to larger crystals and even bath salts mixed with local herbs.
A Photographer’s Paradise
From the viewpoints, the salt terraces look like a giant mosaic. The pools shift in color from bright white to earthy brown depending on how much water has evaporated. In addition, the sunlight at different times of day changes the scene dramatically. The best moments for photography are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the shadows add depth to the valley.
Cultural and Community Importance
The salt mines are more than a scenic stop. They remain a key source of income for local families. Each family manages a number of ponds, and visitors help support this tradition when buying salt directly from them. Therefore, a visit here is both an authentic experience and a way to preserve local culture.The salt mines are not just a tourist attraction – they are a vital source of income for the local community. Each family in Maras manages a number of ponds, and visitors help sustain these traditions by purchasing salt directly from them. Supporting this heritage ensures that the Salineras continue to thrive for future generations.
How to Visit the Salineras de Maras
Location: Near the town of Maras, about 1.5 hours by car from Cusco.
Best Season: The dry season (May–September) brings clear skies and vivid colors.
Access: Many Sacred Valley tours include Maras together with Moray and Chinchero. When planning your trip, consider joining our Maras Moray Half Day Tour, which combines all three.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen and a hat for the high-altitude sun, and carry some soles or cash if you’d like to buy salt as a souvenir.
Why You Should Go
The Salineras de Maras offer more than a postcard-perfect view. They connect you with Peru’s history, showcase the creativity of ancient engineering, and highlight how Andean communities continue to live in balance with nature. Visiting the Salineras de Maras with a knowledgeable guide can give you deeper insight into the process and culture behind this remarkable site.
✨ Explore the Salineras de Maras with Perú Increíble and discover the hidden gems of the Sacred Valley through experiences that blend beauty, history, and local tradition.
