The Maras Salt Mines are a set of ancient salt mines located in the district of Maras, province of Urubamba, in the region of Cusco, Peru. The site, which is about 3,380 meters above sea level, consists of more than 3,000 salt wells that have been used since pre-Hispanic times for salt production.
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Origin of Maras salt
The salt of Maras comes from a subway flow of salt water coming from the Qoripujio mountain on top of it, this led to the construction of narrow net channels to direct the flow of water to ponds for salt production through the evaporation of the salt.
How to get to the salt mines of Maras
To get to the Maras Salt Mines from the city of Cusco, there are several transportation options available.
TOURIST TOUR
- The most common way is through an organized tour, either in group or private. In Cusco there are many tour agencies that offer tours to the Maras Salt Mines, which include transportation by bus or van, a tour guide and often visits to other nearby places of interest. Tours generally have a cost that varies depending on the agency and the type of tour you choose.
TAXI
- Another option is to take a cab from Cusco to Maras. This option is more expensive but also more flexible, as you can go and return to Cusco at any time you wish. It is important to agree on the price of the cab before getting into the vehicle to avoid misunderstandings.
BY YOUR OWN
- It is also possible to take a colectivo or public bus from the Cusco bus terminal to Urubamba, and from there take a cab or colectivo to the Salineras de Maras. This option is the most economical, but also the most complicated since you will need to make several changes of vehicles and walk a bit.
Once in Maras, the salt mines are about 3 kilometers from the town. You can walk there or take a cab or mototaxi which are located in the main square of the town. There is also a hike of approximately 30 minutes through a trail that offers beautiful views of the Andes and the valley.
Benefits of Maras Salt
- Ideal for hypertension problems low in sodium chloride.
- Pink salt is a medicinal product for skin conditions.
What month is ideal for the Maras Salt Mines
The best time to visit the salt mines of Maras is from April to October during the dry season, when clear blue skies prevail. However, you can also visit all year round.
Questions and answers about the salt mines of Maras
Where is the located the Salt Mines of Maras?
The salt mines of Maras are 46 kilometers away from the city of Cusco.
How much does the entrance ticket to the salt mines of Maras cost?
The entrance fee to the salt ponds of Maras is 10 soles (3 USD) for national and foreign tourists.
Can I enter the salt wells of Maras?
No, the entrance is not allowed
How many salt ponds does the Maras Salt mine have?
There are more than 3000 salt wells, which are distributed among 400 families of the population of Maras.
Where can I buy salt from Maras?
The salt of Maras is offered at the entrance of the site, here you can see the great variety of products and their derivatives of the salt of Maras. You can also find them in the San Pedro market in Cusco.
How much does the tour to the salt mines of Maras cost?
The tour to the salt mines has a cost of 42 dollars, this tour includes entrance fees, transportation, guide, in a half day tour in addition to this you will visit Moray and Chinchero which is included in the tour.
