These ancient salt pans have been used for salt extraction since the time of the Incas. There are 100 or so pans that get their salt by from a diverted stream originating from a salt-rich hot spring farther up the hill. In the pans water is evaporated to produce salt for cattle and other livestock. The entire grouping of salt pans is quite impressive, yet the site is rarely visited by tourists. The salt-extraction operation is currently running as a local co-operative that also manages the entry fees into the pans.

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These ancient salt pans are located across the river and up a 3km uphill path from Tarabambo, a small village about 6km west of Urubamba in the Sacred Valley. There is also a rough road leading to the site from above. Most tour groups arrive to the flats by bus using this road.

Last edited on Jan 17, 08 11:54 PM.
Contributors: Eric M. Show History

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Peter C.

Caroline M.

Mar 31, 2010

There is a popular market selling fresh fruit and vegetables and also pots, pans and other essential items. The market does not really cater for tourists and does not include the locally produced alpaca ornaments. The best reason to go to Urubamba is to get to Ollantaytambo, a town and an Inca archaeological site.

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Peter C.

Jan 21, 2009

Pretty pretty landscape, a bit unearthy with all colors of white under a heavenly blue sky... and a nice walk there from Urubamba, too (just folow the river)

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