Peru is an incredibly diverse spectrum of landscapes that enchants thousands of visitors every year. We always say that the unique diversity and rich history of the country have given visitors the best souvenirs to buy in Peru. The colonial cities, the world-class Inca ruins and the picturesque towns that you explore during your holidays in Peru should not only be imprinted in your memory but also be remembered through beautiful souvenirs.
One of the best ways to remember a once-in-a-lifetime journey is to bring home some authentic souvenirs and gifts. So, when you see them, you will remember with joy and affection all the awe-inspiring moments you lived. Indeed, for many travelers, hunting for souvenirs is one of the most exciting and funniest parts of their trip. And our country is a veritable paradise for those who are hoping to find unique souvenirs to buy in Peru.
So, if you are looking for special gifts for your loved ones at home, Peru counts with many traditional markets and souvenir shops where you will find the perfect ones. From Andean hand-woven textiles to Peru’s famous Pisco.
Certainly, a wide array of souvenirs to buy in Peru are available. This can sound overwhelming because everybody wants to buy something authentic that perfectly encapsulates the magic of the place that it came from. But take it easy. We will help you to simplify your shopping experience with our list of the most representative souvenirs to buy in Peru. So, don’t forget to leave extra space in your bag.
When thinking about “How to plan a trip to Peru?” You have to take into consideration the high altitude of the Andes. A chullo is a traditional Andean hat with earflaps that will help you to keep warm when passing through the high altitudes of the Inca Trail or the Colca Canyon.
Without a doubt, it is the perfect accessory for cold Andean nights. It is made from alpaca, llama, vicuña or sheep wool, and decorated with brightly-colored patterns. Indeed, it is part of any traditional Andean outfit. Besides, as part of the souvenirs to buy in Peru, there are also miniature sized chullos that can be used as a key chain.
The alpaca is one of the most recognizable native animals of the Andes, and Peru is known worldwide for its premium quality alpaca products.
Alpaca clothing is highly prized all over the world for its soft texture, warmth, and lightness. It is also hypoallergenic and doesn’t irritate the skin. For these reasons, no visitor should leave Peru without a sweater, hat or scarf made from alpaca wool. They are also decorated with brightly-colored patterns. Without a doubt, they are considered long-lasting souvenirs to buy in Peru.
Furthermore, if you want a product that is supremely soft and delicate, you must look for “baby alpaca” clothing. It is made from the first shearing of the alpaca. Indeed, this extra softness is really valuable. The Incas highly valued the alpaca’s fiber that they called “The fiber of the Gods”. Only royals were allowed to wear.
With this in mind, if you want to purchase real alpaca clothes, visit boutique stores. Cusco and Arequipa count with several of them that are stocked with quality alpaca clothing.
Everybody who visits Peru loves fluffy alpacas, most even want to take one back home. Well, this is a little bit complicated, but don’t feel disappointed. You can purchase a lovely and fluffy alpaca doll made of baby alpaca fiber. They come in different sizes and colors. You are lucky, you don’t have to say goodbye to these cute furry creatures. Besides, these dolls can be found all over the Andean region of Peru.
Peru is a one-of-a-kind place not only for its historical richness but also for its colorful traditions. One of the unique souvenirs to buy in Peru are the traditional Peruvian textiles.
Peruvian textiles are charming and beautiful works of art that represent the history and tradition of our country. They act as an important link between the past and the present of our civilizations. During your Peru private tours, you will visit some textile communities where you will find a truly unique souvenir. The most emblematic Peruvian textiles are tablecloths and tapestries.
However, there are plenty of other products that are made out of bright textiles like shoes, tote bags, and pillowcases. Without a doubt, you will love the patterns.
Retablos are part of the traditional craft of the Andes. They are colorfully painted wooden boxes formed as a house with opening doors. Inside, you can find miniature figures that are featuring religious or historical scenes. Also everyday events of Peruvian people like festivals.
Retablos come in different sizes and colors, depending on the scenes inside. Sometimes they have two levels: the upper one symbolizes heaven and the sacred Andean animals; while the lower one represents life on earth. Nowadays, retablos have a particularly strong tradition in Peru, especially in the city of Ayacucho. This city is famous for its retablos.
The colorful painted Pucara bulls originate in the town of Pucara, in Puno region. They are often found over rooftops on houses in Peru, especially in Andean towns. It is believed that they bring fertility, prosperity, happiness, and protection for the home. They are also often given as a wedding present. A Pucara bull is a popular good luck charm in Peru that can also be used as ornaments inside the house. So, if you want to bring this luck to your home or to wish it to someone you know, consider buying one.
Who doesn’t love chocolate?. Peru is home to some of the best chocolates in the world. We produce high-quality organic chocolate. It doesn’t matter where you are in Peru, you will find some tasty Peruvian chocolate that will delight your taste buds. We recommend buying exotic flavors like Aguaymanto or passion fruit.
So, when you are asking yourself “What to pack for Peru?” With this in mind, we could say that you should bring an extra bag. Furthermore, Peru counts with a lot of cacao plantations. Many local communities earn a living through the cultivation of cacao. If you get a chance to visit these plantations, you will not only buy delicious artisan chocolate but also contribute to local communities.
You don’t have to be a musician to buy a Peruvian musical instrument. If you are a history buff, you must know that Peru is home to many musical styles with roots in Indigenous, European and African traditions.
The musical sounds are as unique as the instruments. The most famous instrument is the Andean flute or Quena, as it is named in Quechua. But other fine samples of instruments used in Peruvian musical traditions are the zampoña, charango.You can add these unique instruments to your list of souvenirs to buy in Peru.
The Inca cross also known as “Chakana” has deep importance and meaning for Andean people. For this reason, many ancient archaeological sites in Peru are decorated with it. It is said that the hole in the center of this sacred and meaningful symbol represents the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco, as well as the Southern Cross constellation. Besides, it is divided into four quadrants with three steps each. Each square represents a specific feature of Incan cosmology.
So, when thinking about the souvenirs to buy in Peru, you can’t miss the chance to add an Inca cross to your collection. You can find it on many items like necklaces, rings and more.
No trip to Peru is complete without a bottle of our famous Pisco, which is the base ingredient for Pisco sour, Peruvian National Drink. Many tours in Peru end with a delicious tasting of Pisco sour. Believe us, once you have tried the first one, you will not want to leave the country without having some more.
Pisco is not only a good drink but also one of the perfect souvenirs to buy in Peru. When you are back home, you can relive your journey with a tasty cocktail made by you. Important tip: check your country’s duty allowances.
