Salt Ponds of Maras, Cusco

If the unusual interests you, we are sure you will love making a trip to these salt mines nestled on a hillside. You can reach Maras by a private car from Cusco. Alternatively opt for a pooled cab or tourist bus. It takes nearly an hour and the road may be a bit bumpy. Travel guides are freely available and it is advisable to hire one.
A short walk later from the car park, you reach an unexpectedly spectacular sight. A work of sheer mathematical genius awaits to greet you. The white, brown, and pink formations seem to be strategically placed. A salty spring gushes out from the hills. The Incas built terraced ponds on the hillside to harvest salt by intelligently capturing saline water at the right points. In the rainy season, these pools fill with water in various shades of the earth. In winter, they look browner whereas in summer, they are white due to the large amount of accumulated dry salt. The sun can be hot and direct, so carry a hat and sun protection to protect yourself from sunburn. Sunglasses can offer some solace in the glaring sunlight. Try tasting the spring water to get an idea of how salty it is. On your way back, don’t forget to make a quick stop at the shops selling different kinds of salt and products made from salt including chocolate with a hit of locally produced salt. Make sure you pick some up for the journey back to Cusco

The entire site of Maras looks like a picture postcard and outstanding photographs can be clicked from any point. These salt mines are definitely worth a day trip.