Exploring the Sacred Valley: A Cultural Odyssey with Family

Salty Air and Stone Gods

Today was a journey back in time, a sensory explosion of salt, earth, and ancient artistry. The Sacred Valley continues to surprise and enchant, revealing layers of history and culture that leave me breathless. Liam and I, along with the kids, embarked on an adventure that took us from the shimmering salt ponds of Maras to the colossal sculptures of Morada De Los Dioses. It was a day of exploration, wonder, and connection to the rich tapestry of Peruvian heritage.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and cultural heritage of Salineras de Maras, an ancient salt extraction site in Peru's Sacred Valley.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Pakakuna Restaurante. The setting was so peaceful. This place is a real gem! The kids loved the open space, and Liam and I appreciated the serene atmosphere as we fueled up for the day ahead. I had the trout, and Liam had the Lomo Saltado. They were both delicious. It’s amazing how fresh everything tastes here; you can really tell they use local ingredients.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to Maras. The drive itself was stunning, winding through the verdant valley with the Andes looming in the distance. As we approached Maras, the landscape transformed. The countless salt ponds, terraced down the hillside, glittered under the morning sun. It was a sight unlike anything I’d ever seen.

We parked and walked towards the entrance, the air growing thick with the scent of salt. The Maras Salt Mines are an incredible feat of ancient engineering, dating back to pre-Inca times. I learned that these salt ponds have been producing salt for over 500 years, possibly built between 500 and 1100 AD by the Wari civilization! Each pond is owned and operated by local families, who have passed down their knowledge and techniques through generations.

As we walked along the narrow paths between the ponds, I was struck by the sheer scale of the operation. There are over 3,000 ponds, each carefully crafted to capture the mineral-rich water flowing from an underground spring. The sunlight causes the water to evaporate, leaving behind the precious salt crystals. It's a mesmerizing process, a dance between nature and human ingenuity.

The earth has music for those who listen.

I watched as a local worker harvested the salt, scraping the crystals from the bottom of the pond with a wooden tool. It was a scene that could have been plucked from centuries ago, a testament to the enduring traditions of the Andean people. We bought a bag of the famed pink salt of Maras, known for its unique mineral composition and delicate flavor. I can't wait to use it in my cooking back home, a reminder of this magical place.

After immersing ourselves in the salty landscape of Maras, we drove to our next destination: Morada De Los Dioses, or the Abode of the Gods. This new attraction in the Sacred Valley is an open-air museum featuring massive stone sculptures of Andean deities and mythological figures. I had read about it, but nothing prepared me for the sheer scale and artistry of these carvings.


Explore the artistic heart of Peru at Morada De Los Dioses, a treasure trove of sculptures, handicrafts, and traditional cuisine.

As we entered the site, we were greeted by towering figures emerging from the rock face. The sculptures are immense, some reaching up to 8 meters tall, and depict gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures from Inca and Andean cosmology. The intricate details and powerful expressions carved into the stone were awe-inspiring. It was like stepping into a world of ancient mythology, where the gods still held sway over the land.

The kids were fascinated by the sculptures, running around and pointing out their favorite figures. Liam, ever the history buff, was engrossed in reading the information panels, learning about the significance of each deity and symbol. I was struck by the way the artists had managed to capture the essence of Andean spirituality in these monumental carvings.

We wandered through the site, marveling at the skill and vision of the sculptors. The Morada De Los Dioses is more than just an art installation; it's a testament to the enduring power of Andean culture and the deep connection between the people and their gods.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way to Hacienda Puka Punku Restaurante for dinner. The restaurant is nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a cozy ambiance that made us feel right at home.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Hacienda Puka Punku in Moccopata – where tradition meets flavor in a charming setting.

We savored traditional Peruvian dishes, infused with local flavors and spices. Liam and I shared a hearty stew, while the kids devoured plates of crispy potatoes and grilled chicken. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery, a celebration of the culinary delights of the Sacred Valley.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we decided to make a quick stop at GREEN BAR VALLE SAGRADO. It was a lively spot, filled with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and delicious drinks. Liam and I shared a couple of cocktails, toasting to our incredible day of adventure.


Discover the lively atmosphere of Green Bar Valle Sagrado, where innovative cocktails and local flavors meet stunning views in the heart of Urubamba.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder. The Sacred Valley continues to captivate me with its beauty, history, and culture. From the shimmering salt ponds of Maras to the colossal sculptures of Morada De Los Dioses, every corner of this valley holds a story waiting to be discovered.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary and the Museo Inkariy. I’m excited to see the animals and learn more about the local culture. After that, we’ll have breakfast at Native Peruvian Restaurant, lunch at Picanteria Tradicional Mama Cecilia, and dinner at Killawasi Restaurant. I’m also hoping to check out the Kumi Shop for some souvenirs. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!

I am so grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Traveling with Liam and the kids has enriched my journey in ways I never imagined. Their curiosity, enthusiasm, and love for adventure have made this trip all the more special.

“To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.” – Aldous Huxley

And as I drift off to sleep tonight, I am filled with anticipation for the adventures that lie ahead. The Sacred Valley has woven its magic around me, and I know that this journey will stay with me long after I leave its embrace.

Until tomorrow, friends. May your own travels be filled with wonder, discovery, and connection.

P.S. I realized today that I forgot to pack a portable power bank! With all the photos and videos I'm taking, my phone battery is constantly running low. Lesson learned: always double-check your packing list!

Also, I realized that I should have brought a lightweight rain jacket. It's the rainy season, after all, and even though the weather has been mostly sunny, it could rain any time. Oh well, live and learn!