
Souvenirs & What to Buy in Santiago, Chile
1. Woven Alpaca Products
Handcrafted alpaca scarves, hats, and blankets from the Maipo valley, offering warmth and style.
- Authenticity: Made by skilled artisans using traditional techniques.
- Quality: Alpaca wool is soft, lightweight, and warmer than sheep's wool.
- Versatility: Ideal for both everyday use and special occasions.
2. Molde Maipo Pottery
Beautifully crafted ceramic pieces from Molde, showcasing Santiago's rich pottery tradition.
- Artisanal Craftsmanship: Skillfully handmade using local clay and techniques.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Unique designs inspired by indigenous motifs and Chilean landscapes.
- Durability: High-quality pottery that will last for years.
3. Mapuche Textiles
Vibrant woven textiles featuring traditional Mapuche patterns, available in various sizes.
- Cultural Significance: Represents the rich heritage of Chile's indigenous communities.
- Quality Workmanship: Intricate designs woven by skilled artisans using traditional techniques.
- Versatility: Can be used as wall hangings, table runners, or accessories.
4. Muscovado Sugar cones
Traditional Chilean sweets made from unrefined sugar cane molasses.
- Authenticity: Crafted using a centuries-old technique.
- Taste: Distinctive flavor with caramel undertones and a crunchy texture.
- Portability: Easy to carry as souvenirs or gifts.
5. Pisco Sour Mix
Ready-to-mix kit for Chile's national cocktail, Pisco Sour.
- Authenticity: Uses high-quality ingredients to replicate the taste of Santiago's famous cocktails.
- Convenience: Allows you to make your own Pisco Sour at home.
- Gift-ability: Ideal for friends or family who love Chilean cuisine.
6. Machas with Cueritos
Spicy pickled crabs served in their shells with cured pork rinds.
- Taste: A unique flavor combination of sweet, sour, and spicy.
- Tradition: A traditional Santiago snack dating back to the early twentieth century.
- Portability: Available in small jars for easy transportation as souvenirs.
7. Palta a la Pobre
Classic Chilean dish made with avocado, tomatoes, onions, and fried fish or meat.
- Taste: A delicious blend of flavors and textures.
- Authenticity: Represents Santiago's traditional street food culture.
- Portability: Pre-packaged versions available for easy transport as souvenirs.
8. Fuegos de Santa Lucia
Traditional lanterns inspired by the candles used during Santiago's Feast of St. Lucy.
- Cultural Significance: Represents Santiago's rich history and traditions.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Beautifully crafted with intricate designs and colors.
- Usability: Can be used as decorative items or outdoor lighting solutions.
9. Maipo Valley Wines
High-quality wines produced in the Maipo Valley, known for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère varieties.
- Quality: Produced by renowned Chilean wineries with a focus on quality.
- Taste: Full-bodied and flavorful, perfect for wine connoisseurs.
- Gift-ability: Ideal for wine lovers or as high-end gifts.
10. Los Dominicos Market Artwork
Artistic creations such as paintings, sculptures, and jewelry from local artists at the Los Dominicos market.
- Supporting Local Artists: Proceeds benefit local artisans and their communities.
- Originality: Unique pieces inspired by Santiago's landscapes, culture, and traditions.
- Gift-ability: Ideal for friends or family who appreciate art and craftsmanship.
11. Chilean Copper Jewelry
Elegant copper jewelry pieces created using traditional Chilean techniques.
- Cultural Significance: Represents Chile's rich mining history.
- Quality Craftsmanship: Skillfully crafted by local artisans.
- Versatility: Available in various styles and designs for both men and women.
12. Madeira Wine
Sweet fortified wine produced in the Colchagua Valley, offering a rich, nutty flavor.
- Taste: Full-bodied and delicious, perfect for dessert pairings.
- Quality: Produced by renowned Chilean wineries with a focus on quality.
- Gift-ability: Ideal for wine lovers or as high-end gifts.
13. Chilean Panama Hats
Elegant straw hats woven using traditional techniques from the Ecuadorian city of Montecristi.
- Quality Craftsmanship: Skillfully crafted by skilled artisans.
- Versatility: Available in various sizes and styles for both men and women.
- Gift-ability: Ideal for friends or family who appreciate high-quality accessories.
14. Chilean Olive Oil
High-quality olive oil produced in the bio-bio region, known for its exceptional quality.
- Quality: Produced using traditional techniques and sustainable farming practices.
- Taste: Rich, fruity flavor with a peppery finish.
- Gift-ability: Ideal for foodies or as high-end gifts.
15. Chilean Sea Salt
High-quality sea salt harvested from the Pacific Ocean, known for its delicate flavor.
- Quality: Naturally dried and carefully processed to preserve its purity.
- Taste: Delicate, slightly sweet flavor with a subtle minerality.
- Gift-ability: Ideal for foodies or as high-end gifts.