Internet celebrities flock here: The pink salt flats atop Peru’s mountains

By: Olivia

Nowadays, although there are plenty of travel books, websites, and blogs introducing unique photo-worthy spots, the world is simply too vast to ever capture it all in photos. RecentlyPeruThe Salinas de Maras salt flats on Peru’s Qaqawiñay mountain range have attracted numerous online travel influencers. Made up of over three thousand salt ponds, these pink-hued salt flats are almost unbelievably beautiful. Doesn’t it make you want to fly toPeruright away?

WhenPeruis mentioned, one immediately thinks of ancient civilizations and envisions a mysterious land. These Salinas de Maras also have a long history, having existed since the Inca Empire between the 11th and 16th centuries. Their formation is a combination of human effort and natural elements: back then, locals dug canals to channel groundwater from the mineral-rich mountains, which would then evaporate, leaving behind salt deposits — a remarkably clever method. Due to varying salt compositions, the dried salts display different colors, creating today’s unique attraction.

The salt flats showcase various hues—light yellow, pink, lavender—and look like a palette.

Is this dreamlike, romantic scenery real? It’s even more stunning than scenes from movies.

From ancient times to the present, beauty that transcends eras gives this ancient civilization enduring charm.

Image source: uliannetrevisol / howfarfromhome / gabrielericci64