Maras is a small community 40 km. (25 miles) from the city of Cusco, on a turnoff from the road to the town of Urubamba. Its main attraction, apart from its church, that dates from the colonial period, are the salt mines located near the town which captivate sightseers and photographers. Salt is extracted from the mines which have been in use since pre-Columbian times. The extraction method employed involves an ancient drying process, whereby salt-water, flowing from an underground stream, is left under the sun in thousands of wells until it evaporates leaving behind only the salt, ready to be sold or exchanged for provisions. During the summer months (April-October) the shimmering spectacle offered by the pools is incomparable.
More information:
