Hidden in the Sacred Valley of Peru, the Sal de Maras fascinates travelers year after year. Over 3,000 ponds form a dazzling white and pink mosaic across the mountains. Unlike ordinary table salt, this treasure is harvested by hand. Each grain carries history, tradition, and the flavors of the Andes.
What Makes Sal de Maras Unique
A subterranean spring feeds the salt ponds of Maras. Its mineral rich water flows into thousands of pools. Under the Andean sun, the water evaporates and leaves behind pure crystals. This process has been repeated since pre-Inca times. Families from Maras continue the tradition, preserving skills passed through generations.
The charm of the Sal de Maras lies not only in its harvest. It also shines in its colors, textures, and unique character found nowhere else.
The Different Types of Salt
Visitors are often surprised to learn that Maras does not offer just one type of salt. In fact, several distinct varieties can be found here:
- Pink Salt: The most famous, with a subtle rosy tone thanks to minerals like iron and magnesium. Chefs love it for its mild, delicate taste.
- Red Salt: A rarer type that forms at the bottom of the ponds, used by locals for agriculture and believed to hold special properties.
- Salt Flower: A fine layer that forms on the surface of the ponds during hot days, similar to gourmet “fleur de sel”, highly valued but scarce.
- Fine Salt: A smoother version, perfect for seasoning dishes directly at the table or adding a refined touch to recipes.
- Granulated Salt: Coarser grains that bring texture and stronger flavor, often preferred for grilling or preserving foods.
These varieties make the Sal de Maras more than just a seasoning; they represent centuries of knowledge and cultural identity.
Experience Sal de Maras in the Sacred Valley
The site of Maras is just 40 kilometers from Cusco, making it an easy stop on a day trip through the Sacred Valley. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the terraced ponds, shop for pink salt in local markets, and even combine the trip with nearby attractions like the circular terraces of Moray.
The experience is not only about buying a souvenir but also about connecting with a living tradition that links the people of Maras to their ancestors.
A Flavor of History in Every Grain
The Sal de Maras is more than a natural product; it is part of Peru’s cultural heritage. Its flavors, colors, and legends tell the story of the Andes, where salt has been treasured for centuries. For travelers seeking both beauty and authenticity, the salt ponds of Maras offer an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of the Sacred Valley.
Karen Pamela Riveros Rojas
