Visit to the Salt Ponds of Maras
Step into a living piece of Inca history by visiting the Salt Ponds of Maras, one of the most stunning and photogenic destinations in the Sacred Valley. Local families have been harvesting these ancient salt terraces, nestled into the side of a mountain, since pre-Inca times, and they continue to use ancestral techniques today.
Explore the white patchwork of over 3,000 salt ponds, fed by a natural underground spring rich in minerals. Learn about the traditional salt-harvesting methods, the community cooperative that manages the ponds, and how locals use this unique Andean salt in Peruvian cuisine.
Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or photographer, this half-day tour offers breathtaking views, cultural insights, and a chance to connect with a tradition that thrives in the modern world.
Location
Peru – Cusco
Duration
Half-day
Altitude
3,300 msnm
Group Size
2 to 10
Transportation
Private
Difficulty
Easy
Itinerary
- Pickup from hotel in Cusco or Sacred Valley
- Scenic drive through the highlands of Chinchero and Maras
- Arrival at the Salineras de Maras viewpoint
- Guided walk through the salt terraces
- Explanation of the salt production process, history, and geology
- Opportunity to taste and purchase local salt products
- Optional visit to Maras village or nearby crafts market
- Return to hotel
Include
- Private transportation
- Bilingual cultural guide
- Entrance fee to the salt ponds
- Free tasting of local salt varieties
- First aid kit
Not Include
- Meals or snacks
- Tips for guide/driver
- Personal purchases (salt, crafts)
Recommendation
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hat and sunscreen
- Water bottle
- Camera or phone
- Extra cash for local products
Frequently Asked Questions
No. For preservation reasons, walking inside the terraces is not allowed — but you can get very close and enjoy panoramic views from designated paths and platforms.
Yes! You can buy natural, pink, or herbal-infused salt directly from the producers at very reasonable prices.
TALK TO AN SPECIALIST
One of our specialists will respond to your travel request as soon as possible.
