Maras Salt Pools

Overview

The Maras Salt Pools, also known as Salineras de Maras, are a series of ancient salt evaporation ponds located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. These terraced pools, dating back to Inca times, create a stunning landscape that attracts visitors from around the world.

The Maras Salt Pools are significant for their historical and cultural value, as they have been used for salt production since Inca times. The unique landscape and traditional methods of salt harvesting make it a fascinating destination.

Cultural Natural Wonder

Location

Address

Urubamba

Neighborhood: Sacred Valley

Coordinates

-13.316700, -72.116700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$10

Children

$5

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April to October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, better lighting for photos

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• lush greenery
• active salt harvesting

summer

dry and cold mornings

• clear skies
• vibrant colors

autumn

mild and dry

• clear skies
• active salt harvesting

winter

warm and rainy

• rainy scenery
• lush greenery

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book a guided tour in advance
Bring comfortable walking shoes
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

ID water sunscreen

seasonal

rain jacket warm layers

not allowed

drones large bags

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• altitude sickness
• slippery paths

Medical facilities: basic first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

Typical Costs

entry $10

guided tour $20

souvenirs $5

Dress Code

casual, comfortable walking shoes, hat, sunscreen, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks
• local tour operators
• 48 hours
• available with guided tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Sacred Valley Explorer

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, Cusco

Distance: 70 km

Travel Time: 2 hours

taxi

$50 2 hours

public_transport

$5 3 hours

From City Center

Distance: 10 km

taxi

$20 20 min

bus

$2 30 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historical significance and unique landscape

Historical Significance: Ancient Inca salt evaporation ponds

Insider Tips

Best views from the upper terraces
Local markets for authentic souvenirs

Local Recommendations

• Try local salt products
• Visit nearby Moray

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola

thank_you Gracias

where_is ¿Dónde está?

how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?

beautiful Hermoso

ticket Boleto

Guide Languages: Spanish, Quechua, English

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Salt Pools

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Wide shots

Result: Stunning landscape

#MarasSaltPools #SacredValley

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas

prohibited areas private property

flash photography allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy restricted

tripod policy allowed

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Moray

Distance: 5km

Walking: 1 hour

Type: Archaeological Site

Ollantaytambo

Distance: 15km

Walking: 3 hours