PERÚ TRAVEL PACKAGES
10 May, 2024
Located in the impressive Sacred Valley of the Incas, the Maras Salt Flats offer a view that seems otherworldly. This ancient site, used since pre-Inca times, is famous for its hundreds of salt pools, which scale the mountainside like terraces. Throughout this article, we will take you on a detailed tour of the history, beauty and cultural significance of the Maras Salt Flats, making your visit an unforgettable experience.
The Maras Salt Flats have been exploited since long before the consolidation of the Inca Empire. It is believed that the small ponds were initially developed by local communities who discovered the subway salt water sources of the “Qaqawiñay” mountain. This natural resource has become a valuable cultural heritage, passing from generation to generation as a family and community treasure.
With the arrival of the Incas, extraction techniques were greatly refined. The Incas expanded the number of wells and improved water distribution to maximize production. Salt was a valuable resource for the Incas, used not only as a condiment and preservative, but also as an offering to the gods and an essential element in ceremonial rituals.
The pools you see today at Maras are shallow and are fed by an intricate system of canals that distribute salt water from a subway spring. The water is allowed to evaporate in the sun, leaving behind salt crystals that are then collected by hand by local workers.
Once the salt has been harvested, it is lightly processed to remove impurities before being sold as one of the region’s purest natural products. The salt of Maras is known for its mineral richness and is highly valued, both nationally and internationally.
The Maras Salt Flats are conveniently located only an hour’s drive from Cusco. They can be accessed by road via Chinchero or Urubamba. Both routes offer spectacular panoramic views.
We offer guided tours that not only include transportation, but also informative talks about the history and process of salt production. These tours are designed to offer an educational and visually stunning experience, ideal for photographers and nature lovers.
We recommend that you bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Also, don’t forget your camera to capture the unique beauty of the salt ponds contrasting with the green of the surrounding mountains.
Tourism activity in the Maras Salt Ponds has provided a significant source of income for the local inhabitants. Many families depend on salt sales and tourism as their main livelihoods.
We are committed to sustainability and work in collaboration with the local community and environmental organizations to ensure that tourism in Maras is responsible and beneficial for all involved.
A collection of photos provided by previous visitors showing the stunning aesthetics of the salt flats throughout the seasons.
Visiting the Maras Salt Flats is much more than just a sightseeing tour; it is an immersion into Peru’s living history and an opportunity to support a community that keeps ancestral traditions alive.
At Leading Travel, we specialize in designing travel experiences that transcend convention. Choose one of our packages to discover the Maras Salt Flats and let our experts guide you on a unique adventure. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram [@LeadingTravel] to see amazing photos of our tours and on Facebook [Leading Travel] to keep up to date with our news and special offers. Your next great adventure starts with us!
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