The Salineras de Maras, or the Maras Salt Mines, are one of the Sacred Valley’s most picturesque and fascinating destinations. Tucked away in the Andean mountains, this ancient Incan site is composed of over 3,000 salt pools, offering travelers an awe-inspiring view of shimmering white terraces cascading down the hillside. Whether you’re an adventurer, a culture lover, or someone seeking something off the beaten path, the Tour Salineras de Maras is a must-see when visiting Cusco.
Table of Contents
1. What Are the Maras Salt Mines?
The Salineras de Maras are a series of terraced salt evaporation pools that have been in operation since pre-Incan times. These pools are filled with saltwater that flows from a nearby subterranean stream, and when the water evaporates under the sun, it leaves behind beautiful layers of white salt crystals.
Local families have harvested salt here for centuries, passing down the tradition through generations. Walking through the terraces, you’ll witness how these ancient techniques are still practiced today, giving you a profound connection to the area’s cultural heritage.
Travel Tip:
Bring sunglasses, as the reflection of the sunlight on the white salt can be quite intense. Wearing sturdy shoes is also recommended, as the paths can be uneven and narrow.
2. A Photographer’s Paradise
The Maras Salt Mines are truly a photographer’s dream. The visual contrast between the bright white salt pools and the surrounding red-brown mountains creates a dramatic landscape, making for unforgettable photos. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just love capturing the beauty of your travels, this site provides endless photo opportunities.
If you visit in the early morning or late afternoon, the light casts a golden glow over the salt terraces, creating a magical atmosphere. The beauty of the Salineras de Maras is sure to leave you mesmerized.
Travel Tip:
For the best photos, visit in the afternoon when the sun illuminates the terraces from a better angle, or during the dry season (May to September) when the pools are most active and vibrant.
3. An Easy Day Trip from Cusco
The Tour Salineras de Maras is an easy half-day trip from Cusco, often combined with other nearby sites like Moray. The salt mines are located about 40 kilometers from the city, making them a convenient stop for those looking to explore the Sacred Valley’s hidden treasures.
For families, this is a perfect way to introduce children to Peru’s cultural heritage while keeping the day relaxed. The tour is relatively short but offers a wealth of experiences and information, making it enjoyable for all ages. Adventurers can also explore the site by hiking or biking through the Sacred Valley.
Travel Tip:
Many tours combine Maras with Moray or other Sacred Valley attractions, so you can make the most of your day exploring the region. Be sure to check your tour itinerary to see what’s included.
4. Discover Local Culture: The Salt Harvesting Process
One of the highlights of visiting the Salineras de Maras is learning about the traditional salt harvesting process, which has remained largely unchanged for hundreds of years. The local families who own the salt pools use ancient techniques to harvest the salt by hand, drying it in the sun before collecting it for sale.
You can even purchase some of this natural, high-quality salt during your visit! Known for its rich mineral content and purity, Maras salt is a unique souvenir that connects you directly to the local culture. For food lovers, this is a great way to bring a piece of Peru’s culinary history home with you.
Travel Tip:
If you plan to buy salt as a souvenir, bring some small bills in Peruvian soles, as local vendors often prefer cash for these transactions.
5. Combine Adventure with Tradition: Visiting Maras by ATV
If you’re an adventure seeker looking to add a bit of adrenaline to your Sacred Valley tour, many tours offer the option to visit the Salineras de Maras via ATV (quad bike). This exciting journey takes you through scenic backroads and Andean villages, offering stunning views of the valley along the way.
Riding an ATV to Maras gives travelers a unique perspective of the region, combining adventure with the opportunity to visit an iconic Incan site. You’ll feel the thrill of the open road while still having plenty of time to explore the salt mines at your own pace.
Travel Tip:
ATV tours often include safety briefings and practice runs before heading out, making this a safe and enjoyable experience for all levels of riders. Be sure to pack sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be quite strong.
6. The Best Time to Visit the Maras Salt Mines
The best time to visit the Salineras de Maras is during the dry season (from May to September). During this time, the salt pools are actively producing salt, and the clear skies make for breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley.
In the rainy season (November to March), while the pools are less active, the surrounding landscape becomes lush and green, providing a different but equally beautiful backdrop. Regardless of when you visit, the Maras Salt Mines offer a unique and captivating experience.
Travel Tip:
The site can get busy, especially during peak tourist season. To enjoy a quieter visit, try to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
7. Why You Should Add Maras to Your Itinerary
The Salineras de Maras is more than just a scenic spot—it’s a testament to the enduring traditions of the local community and a living reminder of the Incan empire’s legacy. For travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience, visiting Maras is an opportunity to step into the past while also witnessing how ancient practices still thrive in the modern world.
For adventurers, the chance to explore the salt mines via ATV or hiking adds an extra layer of excitement to the journey. Families will love the educational aspect of the tour, and luxury travelers can enjoy private tours that offer exclusive insights into the region’s history.
Whether you’re capturing stunning photos, learning about traditional salt production, or simply enjoying the beauty of the Sacred Valley, the Tour Salineras de Maras is a must-do for any traveler in Cusco.
8. How to Get to Maras from Cusco
Getting to Maras from Cusco is easy, and you’ve got several options depending on your preferences.
- Bus or colectivo: You can catch a bus or colectivo to Urubamba from Cusco, then take a short taxi ride to Maras. This is a more affordable option but involves a bit of coordination.
- Taxi: If you prefer convenience, you can hire a taxi directly from Cusco to Maras. The trip takes about 1 hour, and it’s a comfortable, direct ride.
- Guided tour: Many people opt for a guided tour that includes both Maras and Moray. This is a stress-free way to explore both sites in one day, with transport and a guide included.
9. Maras and Moray Tour
A Maras and Moray tour is a fantastic way to experience two of the Sacred Valley’s most intriguing sites. Many tours start in the morning and take you first to Moray, with its fascinating circular terraces, before heading to the Maras salt flats. This combination offers a perfect blend of Inca history and natural beauty, and the sites are close enough to visit comfortably in a single day.
10. History of Maras Salt Mines
The Maras salt mines have been in use for over 500 years, dating back to pre-Inca civilizations. The salt is produced from a natural underground spring rich in saline water. The Incas are believed to have expanded the salt pans, and today, local families continue to harvest salt using the same traditional methods. The process hasn’t changed much over the centuries, which is why visiting the mines feels like stepping back in time.
11. Maras Salt Pans Peru
The Maras salt pans are a unique feature of Peru’s landscape. The salt pans, which cover a hillside, are fed by a natural spring that flows with highly saline water. The water is carefully distributed through a network of channels into shallow pools, where it evaporates, leaving behind the salt, which is then collected by hand.
12. Entrance Fee to Maras Salt Mines
There is a small entrance fee to visit the Maras salt mines, which is usually paid separately from the Sacred Valley tourist ticket. The fee is quite reasonable, and the money goes towards maintaining the site and supporting the local families who work the salt pans.
13. Day Trip to Maras and Moray
A day trip to Maras and Moray is a perfect way to explore these fascinating sites while staying based in Cusco. The two sites are located close to each other, and most tours include transport, a guide, and time to explore both locations. You’ll get to experience the stunning views at Maras and the unique Inca terraces at Moray, all in one day.
14. Maras and Sacred Valley Tour
Many Sacred Valley tours include a stop at Maras along with other highlights like Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Moray. It’s a fantastic way to see multiple important sites in the valley while learning about the Inca civilization and the modern-day culture of the region. The stunning landscapes, ancient history, and the chance to explore both salt mines and archaeological wonders make this tour a must.
15. Distance from Cusco to Maras
Maras is located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Cusco, and the drive typically takes around 1 hour. This makes it a quick and easy day trip, whether you’re going by bus, taxi, or tour.
16. How Old are Maras Salt Mines?
The Maras salt mines have been in operation since pre-Inca times, making them over 500 years old. The Incas are believed to have expanded the salt pans, but they were used long before that by local civilizations. Today, the salt is still harvested by local families using methods that have barely changed over centuries.
17. Maras Peru Elevation
The elevation of Maras is around 3,380 meters (11,090 feet) above sea level. If you’re not used to high altitudes, make sure to stay hydrated and take it easy, especially if you’re coming from a lower elevation.
18. What to Bring to Maras Salt Flats
When visiting the Maras salt flats, here are a few essentials to bring along:
- Sun protection: The altitude makes the sun stronger, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Water: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially at high altitudes.
- Comfortable shoes: The terrain can be uneven, so wear shoes suitable for walking.
- Camera: The salt pans offer amazing photo opportunities, so don’t forget your camera!
19. Is Maras Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! The Maras salt mines are not only a visually stunning landscape but also offer a unique glimpse into ancient salt production methods that are still in use today. The fact that local families continue to work the salt pans makes it a living, breathing part of Peru’s heritage. Plus, the nearby Moray terraces make the whole day trip even more enriching.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions about Maras Cusco
What are the Maras salt mines?
The Maras salt mines (Salineras de Maras) are a network of over 5,000 salt pans used to extract salt from a natural underground spring. The process has been in use since pre-Inca times, and local families still harvest the salt today.
How do I get to Maras from Cusco?
You can reach Maras by bus, taxi, or as part of a guided tour. It’s located about 40 km from Cusco, and the trip takes roughly 1 hour.
What is the altitude of Maras?
Maras sits at an altitude of about 3,380 meters (11,090 feet) above sea level.
Is there an entrance fee to visit the Maras salt mines?
Yes, there is a small entrance fee to visit the salt mines, which is usually paid separately from the Sacred Valley tourist ticket.
Can I visit Maras and Moray in one day?
Yes, many tours combine both Maras and Moray in a single day trip from Cusco. The two sites are close to each other, making it an easy and rewarding day trip.
How is salt extracted from Maras?
Salt is extracted by channeling water from a saline spring into terraced pans. The sun evaporates the water, leaving behind salt crystals, which are collected by hand.
How old are the Maras salt mines?
The Maras salt mines have been in use since pre-Inca times, over 500 years ago, and continue to be harvested using traditional methods.
What should I bring when visiting Maras?
Bring sun protection, water, and comfortable shoes for walking around the salt flats. A camera is also a must for capturing the stunning scenery.
What is the best time of year to visit the Maras salt mines?
The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to October) when the weather is clear, and the salt pans are more accessible.
Is Maras worth visiting?
Definitely! Maras offers a unique look at an ancient salt production method, still in use today, with stunning landscapes and fascinating history.
Final Thoughts
The Tour Salineras de Maras offers a perfect mix of culture, history, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re seeking adventure, a family-friendly outing, or an enriching cultural experience, this ancient salt mine is sure to leave a lasting impression. Don’t miss the chance to explore this hidden gem of the Sacred Valley on your next visit to Cusco!