What Are the Best Things to Buy in Peru?
Peru offers an incredible array of authentic products that make perfect souvenirs, gifts, or personal treasures. From world-renowned textiles to unique culinary delights, the best things to buy in Peru reflect the country's rich cultural heritage and exceptional craftsmanship. Whether you're exploring bustling markets in Lima or artisan workshops in Cusco, Peru's shopping scene provides endless opportunities to discover genuine treasures.
Traditional Textiles and Alpaca Products
Alpaca Wool Items
Alpaca wool stands as Peru's most coveted textile export, and for good reason. This luxurious fiber offers superior warmth, softness, and durability compared to traditional sheep's wool.
Top alpaca products to consider:
- Alpaca sweaters and cardigans - Perfect for cold climates in North America and Europe
- Alpaca scarves and shawls - Lightweight yet incredibly warm
- Alpaca blankets - Hypoallergenic and temperature-regulating
- Baby alpaca clothing - The finest grade, softer than cashmere
Where to buy: Visit Sol Alpaca stores in major cities or the Central Market in Lima for authentic products. Always check for quality certifications to ensure you're purchasing genuine alpaca wool.
Traditional Peruvian Textiles
Peru's textile tradition dates back thousands of years, with techniques passed down through generations of skilled artisans.
Must-have textile items:
- Handwoven rugs and tapestries featuring traditional Andean patterns
- Colorful ponchos made with natural dyes
- Traditional bags (ch'uspas) perfect for everyday use
- Table runners and placemats showcasing intricate designs
Jewelry and Precious Metals
Silver Jewelry
Peru ranks among the world's top silver producers, making silver jewelry an excellent purchase for visitors.
Popular silver items:
- Handcrafted earrings featuring pre-Columbian designs
- Silver bracelets with turquoise and other semi-precious stones
- Religious pendants reflecting Peru's Catholic heritage
- Contemporary silver pieces by modern Peruvian designers
Gold and Other Precious Metals
For those seeking luxury items, Peru offers exquisite gold jewelry, particularly pieces incorporating traditional Inca motifs.
Shopping tip: Purchase precious metals only from reputable dealers who provide authenticity certificates. The Peruvian Ministry of Culture regulates the export of certain cultural artifacts.
Culinary Delights and Specialty Foods
Pisco - Peru's National Spirit
Pisco represents Peru's most famous alcoholic export and makes an excellent gift for spirits enthusiasts.
Types of pisco to try:
- Pisco Puro - Made from a single grape variety
- Pisco Acholado - Blended from multiple grape varieties
- Pisco Mosto Verde - Distilled from partially fermented grape juice
Recommended brands: Ferreyros, Tabernero, and Ocucaje offer premium options available in duty-free shops at Jorge Chávez International Airport.
Coffee Beans
Peru produces some of the world's finest coffee, particularly from high-altitude regions like Chanchamayo and Satipo.
What to look for:
- Single-origin beans from specific regions
- Organic certifications ensuring sustainable farming practices
- Fair trade labels supporting local farmers
Chocolate and Cacao Products
Peru's cacao ranks among the world's finest, with unique flavor profiles that chocolate connoisseurs appreciate.
Top chocolate purchases:
- Artisanal chocolate bars from brands like Machu Picchu and Shattell
- Raw cacao nibs for health-conscious consumers
- Chocolate-covered coffee beans combining two Peruvian specialties
Handicrafts and Artisan Products
Pottery and Ceramics
Peru's ceramic tradition spans millennia, with contemporary artisans creating both traditional and modern pieces.
Popular ceramic items:
- Talavera pottery from Puebla-influenced workshops
- Shipibo ceramics featuring intricate geometric patterns
- Decorative vases inspired by pre-Columbian designs
- Functional dinnerware for everyday use
Woodwork and Carved Items
Skilled woodworkers in Peru create beautiful functional and decorative items using native woods.
Recommended wooden products:
- Hand-carved masks representing various cultural traditions
- Wooden boxes with intricate inlay work
- Musical instruments like pan flutes and guitars
- Religious sculptures showcasing colonial influences
Musical Instruments
Traditional Andean Instruments
Peru's rich musical heritage offers unique instruments that make memorable purchases for music lovers.
Popular instruments to consider:
- Pan flutes (zampoñas) in various sizes
- Charangos - small stringed instruments
- Cajónes - box drums with African influences
- Ocarinas - ceramic wind instruments
Where to shop: The Mercado de Artesanías in Cusco offers an excellent selection of authentic instruments at reasonable prices.
Where to Shop for the Best Deals
Markets and Bazaars
Lima:
- Mercado Indio - Extensive selection of textiles and handicrafts
- Barranco Market - Trendy area with contemporary artisan products
- Miraflores Artisan Market - Tourist-friendly with fixed prices
Cusco:
- San Pedro Market - Traditional market with local atmosphere
- Mercado de Artesanías - Specialized handicraft market
- Pisac Market - Day trip from Cusco with authentic products
Shopping Malls and Boutiques
For those preferring air-conditioned comfort and guaranteed quality:
- Jockey Plaza (Lima) - Upscale mall with alpaca boutiques
- Larcomar (Lima) - Oceanfront shopping with tourist-friendly stores
- Centro Comercial Real Plaza (Cusco) - Modern mall with local brands
Shopping Tips and Bargaining Strategies
Negotiation Guidelines
Effective bargaining techniques:
- Start at 50-60% of the asking price in traditional markets
- Bundle purchases for better deals on multiple items
- Show genuine interest in the craftsmanship and story behind products
- Be respectful - remember you're supporting local artisans
- Know when not to bargain - fixed-price stores and cooperatives
Quality Assessment Tips
For alpaca products:
- Check for pilling or rough texture
- Verify fiber content on labels
- Feel for softness and warmth
- Look for even weaving patterns
For silver jewelry:
- Look for hallmarks indicating purity
- Check for proper finishing and craftsmanship
- Verify stone settings are secure
- Ask for authenticity certificates
Shipping and Customs Considerations
International Shipping Options
Many stores offer international shipping services, particularly for larger purchases like textiles and pottery.
Shipping considerations:
- DHL and FedEx offer reliable service to Tier 1 countries
- Insurance is recommended for valuable items
- Packaging should be professional to avoid damage
- Tracking ensures you can monitor your purchase
Customs and Duty Information
Understand import regulations for your home country to avoid surprises.
General guidelines:
- Personal exemptions vary by country (typically $200-800 USD)
- Declare valuable items to avoid legal issues
- Keep receipts for customs declarations
- Check restrictions on certain products like food items
For specific regulations, consult your country's customs website, such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection or Canada Border Services Agency.
Seasonal Shopping Considerations
Best Times to Visit for Shopping
Peak tourist season (May-September):
- Higher prices but better selection
- More tourist-oriented products available
- English-speaking vendors more common
Shoulder seasons (April, October):
- Better prices and less crowded markets
- Authentic local atmosphere
- More opportunities for cultural exchange
Festival and Holiday Shopping
Peru's numerous festivals offer unique shopping opportunities:
- Inti Raymi (June) - Traditional crafts and ceremonial items
- Fiestas Patrias (July) - Patriotic items and local specialties
- Christmas season - Religious art and nativity scenes
Budget Planning for Shopping in Peru
Price Ranges by Category
Alpaca products:
- Scarves: $15-60 USD
- Sweaters: $40-150 USD
- Blankets: $80-300 USD
Silver jewelry:
- Earrings: $10-50 USD
- Bracelets: $20-100 USD
- Necklaces: $30-200 USD
Handicrafts:
- Small pottery: $5-25 USD
- Wooden items: $10-75 USD
- Textiles: $15-100 USD
Money-Saving Strategies
- Shop in local markets rather than tourist areas
- Buy directly from artisans when possible
- Purchase multiple items for bulk discounts
- Avoid airport shops for better prices
- Use local currency to avoid exchange rate markups
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best alpaca product to buy in Peru?
Baby alpaca scarves and sweaters offer the best combination of quality, portability, and value. They're lightweight for travel, incredibly soft, and suitable for various climates.
Can I ship large items from Peru to my home country?
Yes, most reputable stores offer international shipping services. Expect 2-4 weeks for delivery to North America or Europe, with costs ranging from $30-100 USD depending on size and weight.
Are there any restrictions on taking pisco out of Peru?
Most countries allow personal quantities of alcohol (typically 1-2 liters) for personal consumption. Check your airline's liquid restrictions and your destination country's import limits.
How can I verify the authenticity of alpaca products?
Look for labels indicating fiber content, feel for softness and warmth, and purchase from reputable stores. Genuine alpaca wool should feel smooth, not scratchy, and should have natural luster.
What's the best way to pack delicate items for travel?
Wrap fragile items in clothing, use bubble wrap for ceramics, and consider shipping valuable or large items separately. Many stores provide professional packaging services.
Conclusion
Peru offers an incredible variety of authentic products that make meaningful purchases for travelers from around the world. From luxurious alpaca textiles to handcrafted ceramics, the best things to buy in Peru reflect the country's rich cultural heritage and exceptional artisan skills. By following this comprehensive guide, you'll be well-equipped to find genuine treasures while supporting local communities and artisans.
Remember to shop responsibly, verify authenticity, and consider the cultural significance of your purchases. Whether you're seeking the perfect gift or a personal memento, Peru's diverse shopping landscape ensures you'll find something special to commemorate your visit to this remarkable country.