The salt pans were originally built in 1910 by Manuel Velázquez to serve the local fishing and food preservation industries.
The museum is built upon an ancient volcanic rock formation that provides the necessary flat, impermeable surface for salt harvesting.
The water used for salt production is pumped directly from the Atlantic Ocean into a series of shallow evaporating ponds.
Traditional salt production at this site is entirely solar-powered, relying on the high sunshine hours of Fuerteventura.
The museum complex includes a skeleton of a Cuvier's beaked whale, which is displayed near the entrance to illustrate local marine biodiversity.
The salt produced on-site is non-refined and retains natural trace minerals such as magnesium and calcium.
The specific orientation of the salt pans was designed to maximize wind exposure, essential for accelerating the evaporation process.
The Salt Museum Salinas del Carmen is located on the eastern coast of Fuerteventura at the site of the island's only remaining traditional salt production facility. The museum preserves the historic 1910 salt pans, which continue to harvest sea salt using traditional Atlantic methods. The site features an outdoor exhibition of the 'cocederos' and 'tajos' where seawater is evaporated by sun and wind. Visitors can observe the complete salt crystallization process within the original clay-lined salt pans. An indoor interpretive center displays the cultural and geological history of salt extraction in the Canary Islands. The surrounding coastal landscape remains largely undeveloped to maintain the authenticity of the industrial heritage site. It stands as a rare example of pre-industrial, sustainable salt production still functional in the 21st century.
The elevated viewing platform overlooking the geometric layout of the white salt pans against the blue ocean.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes as the ground around the salt pans is uneven and consists of crushed shells and volcanic rock.
Bring a hat and sunscreen as there is minimal shade while walking through the outdoor salt pans.
Check for high tide or calm sea conditions if you are interested in seeing the water intake system operating at its peak.
Do not attempt to walk along the rugged coastline outside of the marked museum paths, as the volcanic rock is sharp and unstable.
Do not touch or walk into the salt crystallizing pools, as they are fragile and used for active production.
