Maras Salt Mine

Written By: Gail Clifford | Published By: Weekend Notes | June 18, 2024

Exploring the Enchanting Salt Flats of Maras, Peru

Maras Salt Mines Pan

High in the Andean mountains, at an altitude of 3,200 meters, lies one of Peru’s most intriguing marvels- the Salt Mines of Maras. Located just 50 kilometers from Cusco, these salt flats are not only a stunning visual spectacle but also a testament to ancient ingenuity and communal tradition.

Maras Salt Flats Nestled in the Andes Mountains

A Photographic Wonderland
Our photography expedition to Maras revealed an otherworldly landscape that looks like a giant mosaic. The salt pans, arranged in stepped terraces, glistening under the sun, creating a striking contrast against the earthy tones of the surrounding hills. Each pan, a perfect square of white, cream, or brown, follows the natural contours of the Qaqawiñay hill, resulting in a mesmerizing patchwork that is both natural and man-made.

Maras individual salt pan

Ancient Origins and Timeless Techniques
The salt mines date back to pre-Inca times, with archaeological evidence suggesting continuous use from the Early Horizon period (200 B.C. to 700 A.D.) through the Inca Empire and into the present day. The site consists of approximately 4,500 wells, each about five square meters, built using irregular stones and mud mortar. The saltwater is channeled through a sophisticated network of canals that branch out to fill the wells.

The process of salt production remains largely unchanged over centuries. During the dry season (May to October), the evaporation process is swift, producing high-quality salt with a distinctive white or pink hue. Conversely, the rainy season (November to April) yields a brownish salt, which is less sought after but still integral to the community’s economy.