Bolivia’s tourist industry has boomed recently, and travelers are increasingly turning their attention to this beautiful country known for its diverse, dramatic nature and wonderful culture.
From the immense salt flats to the insane city of La Paz, it’s one of my favorite destinations in the world, and well worth a visit.
And whether you’re in Bolivia already or hoping to visit soon, you’re probably wondering what Bolivia souvenirs to key your eye out for.
Well, no fear, I’m here to run you through the 18 best souvenirs from Bolivia to bring home with you. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
1. Salt crystals
The salar de Uyuni (or the Uyuni saltflats) is the largest salt flat in the world, a famous natural wonder in South America, and a symbol of Bolivia’s natural beauty and diversity.
If you visit Bolivia you must visit the salar, and what better souvenir to remember your time here than a beautiful salt crystal straight from the salt flat?
If you keep your eyes peeled, you might be able to find some stunning crystals while exploring. Or, if not, head to the variety of stands and stores in Uyuni and Colchani.
2. Salt crafts
Maybe you’ve got yourself a salt crystal, but who can have too many salt-related souvenirs? Lucky for you, crafts made out of salt are a local specialty in this area and are really quite stunning.
Whether you want a salt pot, salt ashtray, salt llama figurine or salt snow globe, you will find it in the local markets of Uyuni and Colchani, all handmade by the locals for a perfect Bolivia souvenir.
And if you’re stuck for choice, you can’t go wrong with a tub of pure Bolivian salt extracted from the flats.
3. Andean textiles
Textiles from the Andean region are considered among the best in the world, where practices and craftsmanship have been passed down for hundreds of years, generation to generation.
Often making use of alpaca wool, which is known for its soft texture and warmth, you can find a variety of beautiful goods, from jumpers and blankets to wallets and fanny packs.
Most Bolivian textiles will be handmade by locals and of very high quality, but cheaper than in neighboring Andean countries of Peru and Chile, so make sure you grab a bargain.
4. Bowler hat
If you walk around the center of any Bolivian city or town, you won’t be able to avoid the very particular dress of the local people.
And, though it may seem a bit confusing at first, a key component of this is the bowler hat!
With a long history dating back to the Spanish colonization of the region, the hat is now an important Bolivian symbol, and can even tell you the marital status of the women who wear it.
5. Aguayo
The Aguayo cloth is a beautiful rectangular textile which Bolivian and other Andean people use to carry children and small items, by wrapping it around them. It has a long history and is linked to the strength of textile crafts in the country.
Typically made from llama wool and colored with natural dyes, each Aguayo uses symbols and patterns specific to the local community that made it.
Pick up an Aguayo at any local textile market, and be prepared to haggle on price!
6. Handcrafted talisman
Spirituality and talismans hold an important place in Bolivian culture, reflecting thousands of years of cultural practices.
Different talismans will serve different functions, whether to bring good luck or to keep evil spirits away, so be sure to ask your local seller about which one is best for you.
7. Singani
Singani is the national drink of Bolivia, an alcoholic liquid similar to brandy and produced from grapes.
The alcohol is only produced in the high valleys of the country’s southern region, and has been drunk for hundreds of years by locals. In fact, according to Bolivian law, the vineyards must be at least 1600m high to be called Singani.
You can drink Singani on its own, or mix it with ginger ale or lemonade to make a popular Chuflay cocktail. What better idea than to bring some back for your family and friends to try?
8. Pottery
Pottery is another artistic practice that is very important to Andean history and culture, as one of the principal forms of expression of indigenous groups such as the Incas and the Aymara.
Normally inspired by animal figures and deities, pottery from the region comes in a huge variety of shapes and colors, differing by region and group.
A great way to remember your Bolivia trip is with a local pottery souvenir, and you’ll also be helping to support a local custom that is very important to the country and its culture!
9. Chullo
When Bolivians aren’t wearing a bowler hat, they’ll probably be wearing a chullo to keep their head warm.
This cute hat with distinctive ear flats is great for keeping out the cold in Bolivia’s cold mountain regions, due to its llama or alpaca wool. And, they come in such a beautiful mix of colors and designs.
Chullos make for a fun and colorful Bolivia gift, especially for friends and family who feel the chill!
10. Cocada
For those with a sweet tooth, bring back some cocada, a traditional Bolivian dessert.
Made by baking shredded coconut with condensed milk, they are a wonderful snack popular throughout the country and very typical of the region.
They also come in many different flavorings and varieties for you to try, making the perfect Bolivian gift.
11. Llama fetus
Visiting the Witches’ Market (El Mercado de las Brujas) in La Paz is a must when you visit Bolivia. Home to a variety of spiritual items and talismans, it’s a beautiful look into Bolivian culture. And, while you’re there, you could even pick up a llama fetus!
A common cultural and spiritual practice when constructing new buildings is to bury the llama fetus under the foundations, as an offering to the goddess Pachamama.
But, don’t mess around with these llama fetuses just for fun. According to Bolivians, they are a serious business and come with serious consequences if abused.
12. Alasitas
The Alasitas festival is held every year in Bolivia from late January to the end of February, where thousands of Bolivians will buy little miniature figures of their dreams in the hope that they’ll become reality in the next year.
If you’re hoping for a house soon, buy a miniature house. Or, if you’re looking to start a family, buy a miniature baby.
Once you’ve bought your miniature, you’ll have to head to the local yatiri (healer) so that it can be blessed and made to come true.
13. Ametrine
A beautiful quartz stone in a mix of purple and yellow colors, ametrine is the national gemstone of Bolivia. It is mostly found and mined in Bolivia, making it a common symbol of the country and giving the alternative name bolivianite.
Ametrines are a great Bolivian gift for any friends or family who love pretty things, and they can be found in pure form, or as part of a range of jewelry.
14. Coffee
Neighbors Brazil and Peru may be most famous for their coffee, but don’t overlook the Bolivian product either!
Bolivia offers a great climate for coffee, producing acidic and sweet notes perfect for coffee lovers. You can pick some up at local food or artisanal markets, and even sample different types if you’re lucky, without breaking the bank.
15. Leather goods
Brought over by the Spanish following colonization, the country is home to a large population of cattle, creating a strong leather industry in the country.
Combined with typically Andean designs and patterns, leather goods display an interesting and beautiful mix of local and European cultures.
Head to specialist leather stores, or even the local artisanal market, to pick up a leather bag or wallet to take home with you as a great Bolivia souvenir.
16. Alfajores
Alfajores are one of the best sweet treats that South America has to offer, and Bolivia is no exception when it comes to their popularity. Though by no means the biggest producer or consumer of alfajores, Bolivians still love the treats and they are commonly given as gifts.
Made by filling two large cookies with dulce de leche, and coating with shaved coconut, you’re sure to fall in love with them. So, make sure to bring some back for your friends and family, but also keep your own private stash too.
17. Mentisan
Mentisan is a popular Bolivian ointment made by mixing mint with petroleum jelly and various essential oils, such as eucalyptus and sage.
The ointment is commonly used for a range of everyday health issues, such as colds, flu, insect bites, and burns. Bolivians strongly vouch for the ointment, and it’s rare to find a household without one of their bright green containers.
So why not be kind to your health, and get yourself a typically Bolivian souvenir that will help you out in the future?
18. Lizard ointment
Traditional Bolivian medicine dates back centuries, and has a strong natural and spiritual element. Passed down through generations, these medicines are not just a means for health, but also an important cultural practice.
Lizard ointment is one of the great natural cures that you’ll find here, which Bolivians use to treat fractures and broken bones. It’s made by crushing lizards into a paste.
So, whether you believe it or not, head to your local yatiri and see for yourself.
Where to buy souvenirs from Bolivia
With a strong emphasis on community and the locals, Bolivians don’t tend to shop at supermarkets. Instead, shopping in Bolivia is done by visiting local markets and stores.
This means that when looking for souvenirs, you’re best heading for stores specific to what you want to find or browsing at one of the big local markets.
Calle Sagarnaga is the main tourist market in La Paz, so it’s best to try there first. You’ll find textiles and chullos, as well as the classic keyrings and magnets.
For any talismans or natural medicines, the Witches’ Market in La Paz is definitely the place to be, and local sellers will be more than happy to advise you and guide you to what you need.
For food souvenirs, Mercado Lanza in La Paz or La Feria de la America in Cochabamba are great options. You can find a range of stalls run by locals, even including those selling sustainable produce, and also pick up a salteña for yourself if you’re hungry.
And for textile souvenirs, try Ayni in La Paz or La Cancha in Cochabamba. Mercado Tarabuco is a hotspot for artisan sellers, attracting sellers from across the country. It’s located about two hours from Sucre.
If you’re stuck on what to buy or are looking for something very specific, the El Alto market in La Paz is definitely your best bet. Claimed by some to be the largest open-air market in South America, you can genuinely find anything at El Alto market, making the possibility of souvenirs endless.
Whether you want a random car part, a bedframe, a rare book, or nothing in particular, this is the place to go. The Mercado 16 de Julio is also a great spot if looking for variety.
Wherever you go, just make sure to get your haggling skills on, and don’t be afraid to negotiate on price.
