Hand-Harvested Salt: Celestún’s Pristine Tradition

Celestún, Yucatán — A group of residents in Celestún collect salt by hand from natural saline pools, extracting what they describe as the finest and purest salt without chemical processes or machinery. The traditional practice, passed down through generations, remains a vital source of income for local families.

A Labor-Intensive Tradition

Each morning, workers arrive at the saltwater pools, known as aguadas, using simple water scoops to gather the crystallized salt. José Koyoc, a longtime salt harvester, explained that he learned the trade as a child. “It’s very difficult work,” he said. “You’re standing in the saltwater ponds under the sun, and your skin suffers, but every job has its challenges.”

Salt production typically occurs once a year, though favorable weather can allow for two harvests, doubling earnings. The salt sells for up to 1,600 pesos per ton due to its fine texture and white quality. Buyers come from Celestún’s port, while the rest is sold in Mérida and other states.

Maintaining a Vital Resource

Workers emphasize the importance of preserving the aguadas. “We must keep the ponds free of debris and mud,” Koyoc noted. “We clean and maintain them at least twice a week.”

While fishing is the primary livelihood for many men in Celestún, salt harvesting provides a significant supplementary income. The trade supports families and sustains a tradition deeply rooted in the region’s coastal economy.