The Best Peruvian Souvenirs: Unique Gifts to Take Home from Your Trip
- Peruwayna Spanish School in Lima
- May 7
- 13 min read
Updated: Sep 30
Looking for the perfect souvenir from your trip to Peru? We’ve curated a list of the best traditional Peruvian souvenirs to bring home — ideal for travelers discovering Peru and learning Spanish with Peruwayna.
Peru's rich culture spans over 10,000 years of textile tradition and remarkable craftsmanship. A trip to this beautiful South American country lets you bring home authentic Peruvian souvenirs. These range from world-class alpaca clothing to handmade gifts from Peru that capture the Andean communities' heritage. If you're wondering what to buy in Peru, this guide will help you discover the best Peruvian goods and souvenir Peru gifts to take back home, including popular Machu Picchu souvenirs.
Your interests will guide what catches your eye among the many Peru gifts available. Most travelers love the incredibly soft baby alpaca garments and colorful handwoven textiles with detailed patterns. Peru's famous spirit Pisco, used to make the classic Pisco Sour cocktail, makes a great gift. The country stands as the world's ninth-largest chocolate producer, so Peruvian chocolate becomes an excellent choice to take home. You can also pick up special items like pink salt from the ancient Maras mines. Traditional instruments such as panpipes and charangos reflect Peru's musical soul and Peruvian traditions.
Let me help you spot genuine Peruvian treasures and understand their cultural roots. You'll learn where to support local craftspeople and avoid mass-produced copies. This knowledge ensures you'll take home meaningful pieces that tell Peru's story and represent the best things to buy in Peru, from artisan crafts to handmade art.
Alpaca and Andean Clothing
Alpaca garments rank among the most treasured textile souvenirs from Peru. These Andean camelids, native to the highlands, produce a luxurious fiber famous for being lightweight, hypoallergenic, and naturally insulating. This makes alpaca clothing a top choice for those seeking authentic Peruvian souvenirs. This makes alpaca clothing a top choice for those seeking authentic Peruvian souvenirs.
Alpaca Sweaters and Scarves
Leading fashion houses around the globe prize alpaca wool for its softness and elegance. The most coveted type is baby alpaca wool, sourced from the first shearing, which delivers a buttery-soft texture that feels exceptional on the skin.
Markets in Cusco, Arequipa, or Lima feature countless options, from basic wear to upscale items. For guaranteed authenticity, stores like Sol Alpaca, Kuna, and Qinti offer high-quality Peruvian alpaca products with certification. Prices range from $50–$250 for premium items made with 100% alpaca, while lower-end versions at markets often cost $20–$50 and most likely be blended with synthetics.
Chullos and Ponchos
A chullo is a traditional Andean earflap hat, woven with patterns that reflect local identity and Peruvian indigenous symbolism. These wool hats make excellent cultural souvenirs from Peru due to their historical importance and vibrant colors.
Andean ponchos, once worn for protection against mountain climates, now serve as stylish outerwear. They combine ancient weaving techniques with modern flair. High-quality ponchos, often made from 100% alpaca, are not only beautiful but also represent a deep connection to Andean heritage.
How to Spot Authentic Baby Alpaca
Not all “baby alpaca” is genuine—here’s how to tell the difference:
Touch test: Authentic alpaca feels cool at first and warms with skin contact.
Weight: Real alpaca is heavier than synthetic fibers.
Color: Neon or very bright shades usually signal acrylic blends.
Seams: True handwoven pieces often lack interior seams.
Price: If it’s too cheap, it’s probably not real alpaca.
Composition tag: If you can't find any, is most likely because is blended with synthetics.
For peace of mind, buy from trusted retailers or certified cooperatives, which also support sustainable alpaca production in Peru.
Traditional Textiles and Accessories
Traditional Peruvian textiles are some of the most meaningful handmade souvenirs from Peru. Woven by Andean communities using ancient techniques, these textiles express cultural identity through color, pattern, and symbolism. Each piece represents not only a functional item, but also a living legacy of Peruvian weaving traditions, making them among the best gifts from Peru
Handwoven Bags and Backpacks
Handwoven Andean bags, often made with natural dyes and wool, are among the most popular artisanal gifts from Peru. You'll find a wide variety: Peruvian backpacks, cosmetic bags, wallets, and shoulder bags that merge practical use with cultural storytelling. Look for symbolic motifs such as the Chacana (Inca cross) or sacred animals like condors or llamas.
Backpacks with leather accents often cost between $30–$100.
Smaller items like coin purses or traditional pencil cases sell for $10–$30.
These accessories are not only useful but visually stunning, making them perfect for travelers seeking colorful handmade souvenirs.
Table Runners and Pillowcases
Bring a piece of Peru’s history into your home with Peruvian table runners and decorative pillowcases. These pieces use ancestral weaving patterns tied to Inca cosmology and rituals. A traditional unkuña (ritual cloth) often features the Chacana symbol, which represents the three Inca worlds: Uku Pacha (underworld), Kay Pacha (present world), and Hanan Pacha (upper world).
Handwoven table runners range from $80–$150.
Matching pillow covers typically cost $30–$60.
Each piece serves as both functional home decor and a meaningful cultural souvenir.
Where to Buy Quality Textiles in Peru
For truly authentic Peruvian textiles, seek out ethical cooperatives and workshops that directly support local artisans:
The Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco offers museum-quality weavings and hosts live demonstrations.
Markets in Chinchero, Pisaq, and San Blas (Cusco) offer better prices than city souvenir shops.
Taquile Island on Lake Titicaca is world-renowned for its men-led textile traditions and produces some of the highest-quality handwoven goods in Peru.
While places like the Inka Market in Lima are convenient, they often charge more. Buying from artisans in highland villages ensures both fair prices and support for indigenous Peruvian craftsmanship.
Cultural and Artistic Souvenirs
Some of the most meaningful Peruvian souvenirs are pieces of art that reflect the country's indigenous heritage and colonial history. These items go beyond aesthetics—they carry stories, beliefs, and symbolism passed down through generations. Whether you're a collector or simply looking for unique handmade gifts from Peru, these traditional crafts connect you directly to Peruvian culture and traditions.
Retablos from Ayacucho
Retablos are ornate, hand-painted wooden boxes that display colorful figurines arranged into miniature scenes. Originating in Ayacucho, these traditional Peruvian dioramas often depict religious themes, daily Andean life, or celebrations. Each retablo is layered with symbolism: the upper section typically represents the spiritual world, while the lower section shows earthly experiences.
These pieces are both spiritual and artistic. Master artisans spend dozens of hours crafting and painting each one, and sizes range from handheld souvenirs to statement home decor pieces. They’re a deeply meaningful and unique gift from Peru.
Toritos de Pucará (Ceramic Bulls)
You’ll see these decorative bull figurines perched on rooftops throughout the Andean highlands, especially in the Puno region. Toritos de Pucará symbolize protection, fertility, and happiness for the home. Though influenced by Spanish ceramic traditions, their meaning has evolved into something distinctly Peruvian.
Usually sold in pairs, these bulls are gifted to newlyweds or used as housewarming presents. The most authentic versions come from the town of Pucará, made by artisans who maintain centuries-old pottery techniques.
Ekeko Figurines (God of Abundance)
The Ekeko, a pot-bellied, smiling figurine, is one of Peru’s most iconic symbols of prosperity. He carries miniature versions of everything people desire—money, food, tools, homes, even cars—representing abundance in all aspects of life.
Tradition holds that if you give an Ekeko a lit cigarette and small offerings, he’ll help manifest your wishes. Ekeko Day, celebrated on January 24, is when people "recharge" their figurines with fresh mini-gifts. These colorful figurines are widely available in artisan markets and make a quirky, spiritual souvenir deeply rooted in Andean beliefs.
Edible and Drinkable Gifts
The flavors of Peru offer one of the most satisfying ways to remember your trip. From award-winning chocolate to the nation’s iconic spirit, the best edible souvenirs from Peru allow you to take a piece of the country’s culinary identity home. These Peruvian food souvenirs also make excellent gifts that reflect local traditions and tastes.
Pisco
Peru’s signature spirit, pisco, is a must-try and a perfect liquid souvenir. Distilled from grapes with no additives, this brandy-like drink is the heart of the famous Pisco Sour cocktail. You’ll find high-quality varieties like Mosto Verde, Puro, and Acholado, with popular brands including Cuatro Gallos, Portón, and Tabernero.
Peruvian chocolate and coffee
Peru is a rising star in the craft chocolate world. With over 60% of global cacao varieties grown here, brands like Cacaosuyo, Maraná, and Britt have won international awards. These artisanal chocolates make excellent gifts—especially for those who appreciate ethically sourced, high-quality cocoa.
Likewise, Peruvian coffee from highland regions like Cajamarca or Cusco offers rich, floral notes prized by coffee lovers. Visit cafés like Puku Puku Café or Artidoro Rodríguez Café in Lima or Café Dwasi in Cusco to sample and buy freshly roasted beans.
Tejas and chocotejas
For sweet lovers, tejas and chocotejas are some of the most iconic Peruvian candies. Originally from the Ica region, tejas are sugar-coated confections filled with manjar blanco (a caramel-like filling) and nuts or dried fruits. Chocotejas are a chocolate-coated version of the same treat, offering a richer, more indulgent experience. They’re beautifully boxed and make great souvenirs for sharing. We recommend brans such as Maraná, Helena, and Sra. Buendia.
Turrón de Doña Pepa
This colorful, anise-flavored nougat bar is especially popular in October during Señor de los Milagros festivities, but it’s sold year-round in most markets and supermarkets. Made with layers of shortbread dough, honey syrup, and vibrant candy sprinkles, turrón de Doña Pepa is both a festive and traditional edible souvenir.
Chifles and canchita serrana
For savory snacks, don’t miss chifles (crispy plantain chips) and canchita serrana (toated/crunchy corn nuts). Chifles come salted, sweetened, or spiced, and are perfect for travelers who want a crunchy, packable snack. Canchita serrana, a favorite across the Andes, is usually served as a bar snack with ceviche or pisco but makes a great gift to enjoy at home. Both are easy to find in local markets, supermarkets, or artisanal food shops.
Pink salt of Maras and coca candies
Maras pink salt, harvested from ancient terraced pools near Cusco, is another standout Peruvian culinary souvenir. Its mineral-rich flavor enhances meat, seafood, and grilled vegetables, and the packaging often reflects traditional Andean design.
Coca candies, made from pulverized coca leaf, are a unique local remedy to combat altitude sickness. Though coca leaves can’t be brought into many countries, coca-infused candy is often allowed and provides a small, authentic taste of Andean herbal traditions.
Jewelry & Accessories: Meaningful Souvenirs from Peru with Cultural Significance
If you're looking for souvenirs from Peru that are small, lightweight, and deeply meaningful, Peruvian jewelry and handmade accessories offer the perfect blend of beauty, symbolism, and tradition. These wearable keepsakes reflect Peru's spiritual heritage and artistic craftsmanship—ideal as Peru gifts to bring home and for personal mementos..
Silver Jewelry and Chakana Pendants
Peru is renowned for its high-quality silver, and cities like Cusco and Lima are full of skilled silversmiths who create elegant pieces inspired by Inca and Andean symbolism. One of the most iconic designs is the Andean cross, or Chakana, which represents the connection between the spiritual and physical worlds in Inca cosmology. Chakana pendants in silver or set with native stones like sodalite or chrysocolla make especially meaningful souvenirs from Peru with spiritual symbolism.
Beaded and Woven Bracelets
Colorful beaded bracelets and handwoven wristbands are another popular option when choosing what to buy in Peru. These accessories are often handmade by indigenous artisans using traditional weaving techniques, and many carry patterns that symbolize nature, mountains, and ancestral wisdom. They’re perfect for travelers looking for affordable and authentic Peruvian gifts that carry cultural meaning.
Stone Jewelry and Natural Gem Accents
Peruvian artisans frequently incorporate local stones such as opal, serpentine, and amazonite into their jewelry designs. These stones are not only visually striking but are also believed to carry energetic and healing properties. Whether you’re picking up a statement ring, stone necklace, or a pair of earrings, these natural jewelry pieces from Peru are wearable souvenirs that tell a story of land and legacy.
Tagua Nut and Huayruro Seed Accessories
For a more eco-friendly and symbolic option, look for accessories made from tagua nuts—a sustainable alternative to ivory found in the Amazon rainforest. Also common are Huayruro seed necklaces and bracelets, made from red-and-black seeds considered to bring good luck and ward off negative energy. These pieces are common in the Amazon and Andean regions and are often gifted as Peruvian souvenirs for good luck.
Books & Stationery: Thoughtful and Educational Souvenirs from Peru
If you're looking for souvenirs from Peru that are both lightweight and meaningful, books and stationery items are excellent choices—especially for travelers who want to keep learning and reflecting after their journey ends. These items are practical, culturally enriching, and perfect for anyone who appreciates Peruvian culture, history, or cuisine.
Cookbooks with Traditional Peruvian Recipes
Food lovers will cherish a beautifully photographed Peruvian cookbook that introduces them to iconic dishes like lomo saltado, ají de gallina, and ceviche. Many cookbooks go beyond recipes to explore the cultural roots of Peru’s diverse cuisine, making them ideal souvenirs for culinary enthusiasts. Look for options written by local chefs or published in both Spanish and English—some include recipes for Pisco cocktails and desserts like suspiro a la limeña.
Photobooks and Illustrated Travel Guides
Another excellent way to remember your trip is by bringing home a Peru travel photobook or an illustrated guidebook. These visual souvenirs capture the majesty of places like Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, and the Sacred Valley. Many feature insights into Peruvian traditions, regional festivals, and natural wonders—perfect coffee table books or keepsakes to inspire your next adventure.
Notebooks with Traditional Textile Covers
For a more tactile, artisan-inspired option, consider purchasing handmade notebooks with Andean textile covers. These notebooks, often made using colorful aguayo or woven alpaca fabric, make beautiful gifts and are great for journaling, sketching, or travel notes. They're commonly found in artisan markets in Cusco, Pisac, or Lima, and they combine everyday function with traditional design—making them a perfect example of authentic handmade gifts from Peru.
Souvenirs from Peru for Kids: Fun, Educational & Culturally Rich Gifts
Traveling families often ask what authentic Peruvian souvenirs are best for children. Fortunately, Peru offers a wide range of handmade toys and cultural gifts that are not only fun but also introduce young minds to Peruvian traditions and Andean culture. These charming finds make perfect gifts for little ones back home—and they’re easy to pack too!
Stuffed Llamas, Alpacas, and Guinea Pigs
Few things delight kids more than a soft, cuddly toy—and Peru delivers with adorable stuffed llamas, alpacas, and guinea pigs made from real or synthetic alpaca wool. These plush animals represent iconic Andean fauna and are widely available in markets across Cusco, Lima, and the Sacred Valley. They're among the most popular children’s souvenirs from Peru, combining playfulness with a touch of local culture.
Handmade Wooden Toys
Local artisans craft wooden toys that reflect traditional Andean life, from miniature carts to animal figures. These durable, eco-friendly gifts are often made using sustainable wood and painted with natural dyes. They support rural artisan communities and make for a meaningful gift that kids can actually play with—an ideal example of handmade Peruvian souvenirs for children.
Colorful Finger Puppets
Finger puppets are a fun and educational gift that sparks creativity. These tiny hand-sewn characters are crafted using bright yarns and often feature traditional costumes or representations of Peruvian animals like llamas, condors, and foxes. They're lightweight, inexpensive souvenirs, and make great small souvenirs from Peru to share with a classroom or family.
Children’s Books on Inca Mythology and Peruvian Culture
For a more educational take, pick up children’s books about Inca mythology, Peruvian folktales, or Andean legends. Many are available in Spanish, English, or bilingual editions—perfect for early language learners. These cultural souvenirs help kids connect with Peru’s history and values while encouraging reading. Look for illustrated stories about Manco Capac, Pachamama, or the legendary city of Machu Picchu, available in museum shops and cultural bookstores.
Where and How to Shop in Peru
Shopping for authentic Peruvian souvenirs is more than a transaction — it’s a cultural experience that lets you interact with artisans, learn about traditional techniques, and support local economies. Knowing where to go and how to shop smartly will help you find the best Peruvian handicrafts, ethical souvenirs, and handmade gifts from Peru. Are you still Wondering what should I buy at Peru?
Best Traditional Markets in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Lima
For the widest variety of handmade Peruvian crafts, your best bet is to explore traditional markets in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
San Pedro Market (Cusco): A bustling hub filled with everything from alpaca clothing to handwoven textiles, herbs, food, and souvenirs.
Wanchaq Market (Cusco): Less touristy, better prices, and more interactions with locals.
San Blas (Cusco): Known for artisan workshops and galleries where you can buy directly from the artists.
Pisac Market (Sacred Valley): Famous for its colorful textiles, ceramics, and Andean jewelry, especially vibrant on Sundays.
Chinchero Traditional Market: Offers live weaving demonstrations and authentic Andean textiles, often made with natural dyes.
Ollantaytambo Artisan Market: Combines quality souvenirs with an archeological backdrop.
In Lima:
Inka Market (in Miraflores): Great for last-minute shopping, though prices are often higher than Cusco.
Artisan Gallery of San Francisco (Historic Center): Offers high-quality Peruvian crafts in a central, well-curated location.
Kuna Alpaca in Avenida Larco or in Larcomar Shopping mall for high quality alpaca clothing and accessories, which would be an ideal present for someone special in your life (they even include a very nice packaging, wrapping and a little panflet explaining the sourcing of the alpaca and their history).
Wong Supermarket or Metro supermarket (both in Miraflores), to shop for Pisco, tejas, chocotejas (we recommend the brand "Helena"), chocolate bars, chifles, turrones, and many more edible souvenirs from Peru.
Find these businesses and more places where to shop for souvenirs at our interactive Lima travel guide
Tips for Bartering and Avoiding Scams
Bargaining when shopping is part of the experience in Peru's artisa markets, especially for textiles, musical instruments, and ceramics:
Start low: Offer about 40–50% of the asking price with a friendly attitude and a smile.
Be informed: Visit higher-end stores like Sol Alpaca or Kuna early in your trip to compare real vs. fake alpaca.
Inspect the materials: Real baby alpaca feels cool to the touch and warms gradually; synthetics feel warm immediately.
Look for craftsmanship: Avoid overly uniform patterns or machine stitching on supposedly handmade textiles.
Be polite and respectful: Bartering is expected but mutual respect earns better deals.
Cash vs. Card: What to Carry
Most Peruvian craft markets and small shops only accept cash, especially in remote towns:
Carry small denomination bills: Change can be hard to find, especially for large notes.
ATMs: Limit withdrawals to around $200 per transaction and often charge ~$7 in fees.
Credit cards: Always accepted in larger shops, however, please be adviced that small shops may add a surcharge of about 5%.
Bill condition matters: Vendors often reject US dollar bills that are torn or even slightly damaged.
Secure your money: Use internal pockets or body-safe bags to avoid pickpockets in crowded markets or crowded buses.
You might also be interested in:The Best Restaurants in Lima You Can't Miss
Conclusion : What are the Best Souvenirs From Peru?
Peru is a land of living traditions, and its souvenirs offer far more than decorative keepsakes—they carry deep cultural meaning, regional identity, and the stories of artisans whose techniques have been passed down for generations. Whether it’s a handwoven alpaca scarf, a Chacana pendant, a bottle of premium pisco, or a bag of Maras salt, the best Peruvian souvenirs are those that reflect the richness of this country’s heritage.
Shopping for authentic souvenirs from Peru is also an opportunity to engage with local communities, support sustainable craftsmanship, and learn about the values that shape Peruvian life. But to truly understand the meaning behind these items—the symbolism in textiles, the stories in retablos, the humor in an Ekeko’s grin—nothing enhances your experience more than speaking the local language.
That’s why, if you're visiting Lima, we highly recommend immersing yourself fully in Peruvian culture by learning Spanish with us at Peruwayna Spanish School. Just a few lessons can enrich your conversations with artisans, deepen your appreciation of traditions, and help you connect more authentically with the people behind the crafts. Our school offers immersive Spanish programs tailored to travelers like you—those who want to experience Peru beyond sightseeing and souvenirs.
Take home more than gifts—take home the language and memories that will last a lifetime. Learn Spanish in Lima with Peruwayna and make your cultural journey through Peru truly unforgettable.
Discover the perfect course for you at Peruwayna! Visit our website to explore our diverse options and start your adventure today. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us—we're here to help!
