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Salinas Salt Production
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Industrial site
Salt production in Salinas, located on the coast of the Santa Elena province, is a historical industry with roots dating back to pre-Columbian civilizations. Currently, industrial production is led by the company Ecuasal, which operates expansive solar evaporation ponds directly adjacent to the Pacific Ocean. The extraction process relies on the region's intense solar radiation and consistent coastal winds to evaporate seawater, leaving behind concentrated salt crystals. These crystals are harvested, purified, dried, and fortified with iodine and fluorine for human consumption and various industrial uses. The Salinas salt flats are not only a vital economic asset meeting Ecuador's domestic demand but also serve as a crucial ecological sanctuary for migratory birds, including Andean flamingos. The industrial complex features advanced milling facilities and packaging centers that facilitate distribution throughout the country. The sea salt produced here is highly regarded for its purity and the environmentally friendly, natural method of its extraction.
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A postcard from Salinas Salt Production
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- Highlights: Museo de Ballenas (appointment required) · Loberia · Mirador La Puntilla
- Nearby: La Libertad (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug–Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 23 | 22 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 22 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 61 | 136 | 140 | 59 | 21 | 5 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 3 | 13 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Salinas Salt Production consists of traditional salt pans on the coast of Salinas, Ecuador. Sea salt is extracted here through solar evaporation, a centuries-old craft shaping the local economy.
Visiting
The salt pans are generally accessible to visitors; many facilities are visible from adjacent roads. Some producers offer short guided tours to explain the evaporation process.
Where to view it
A well-suited viewpoint is the small hill along Avenida General Enríquez Gallo. From there, you look over the geometric basins of the salt pans to the Pacific Ocean.
Local products
The pans produce various salt types, including fine table salt and coarse sea salt, available in local shops and the Salinas market. Seasonal specialties include herb-flavored salts.
Active season
Salt extraction is most intense during the dry season from June to December, when evaporation is highest. At that time, the basins are covered with crystals, offering an impressive sight.
Nearby
Combine the salt pans visit with Salinas city center and nearby Chipipe beach. The lighthouse and marine aquarium are also worthwhile day trip destinations.
Geography
Facts
- The Salinas salt flats supply nearly 90% of Ecuador's domestic table salt requirements.
- The extraction cycle from pond flooding to final harvest takes several months to complete.
- The Ecuasal company was formally established in 1961.
- The evaporation ponds are a significant habitat for pink flamingos during migration.
- In addition to table salt, industrial salt is produced for the oil and textile industries.
- The salt production facility covers an area spanning several hundred hectares.
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Sights in the town Salinas Salt Production (12)
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Frequently asked questions
Where does the salt in Salinas come from?
It is extracted from underground salt springs in the highlands of Bolívar province.
Can the salt mines be visited?
Yes, in Salinas de Guaranda visitors can see the traditional extraction process.
What is special about this place?
The community is a model for successful cooperative economics (Salinerito).
What else can be purchased there?
In addition to salt, chocolate, cheese, and wool products are very well known.
What is the climate like there?
It is cool and often foggy, as it is located at an altitude of over 3,500 meters.
Salinas Salt Production: where is it located?
Salinas Salt Production is located in Ecuador.
Salinas Salt Production: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museo de Ballenas (appointment required), Loberia, Mirador La Puntilla.
Salinas Salt Production: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Salinas Salt Production: why is it worth visiting?
Salt production in Salinas, located on the coast of the Santa Elena province, is a historical industry with roots dating back to pre-Columbian civilizations.
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