Colombia is a country filled with color, and with the rich availability of indigenous handicrafts, diverse natural resources, and creative local brands, it can be hard to decide which Colombian souvenirs to bring home.
Each part of Colombia has something unique to offer, so wandering through local markets and exploring the diversity of handicrafts is a must-do on any trip, regardless of which region you decide to explore.
In this guide, I’ve broken down 35 best Colombian souvenirs to buy on your trip, from Colombian delicacies to intricate handicrafts.
But why should you trust me? I’m currently on a mission to explore all 32 Departments of Colombia, so I’ve traveled extensively throughout the country and seen the diversity of crafts, food, and stories to be found. So let’s get into it!
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1. Wayuu Mochila
Produced by the Wayuu indigenous people in the La Guajira peninsula, Wayuu mochilas might just be the most famous of all Colombian souvenirs.
These mochilas are handmade, taking anywhere from days to weeks to produce the intricate designs. The bags are available in everything from colorful hues to earthy tones, and each pattern holds a special significance.
While the mochilas are generally produced by artisans in the La Guajira peninsula, the bags are now produced across the country. Traditionally made with natural fibers, many bags these days are now produced with synthetic fibers, making them machine washable and durable for travel.
The best place to find authentic Wayuu bags are in the coastal regions of the country, however due to their popularity, they’re now sold at markets across Colombia. Many indigenous groups in the department of Magdalena also create woven mochiles, including the Wiwa, Kogi, and Arhuaca peoples of the Sierra Nevada and the Guambiano people in Cauca.
Shop Wayuu Mochilas on Etsy
–Wayuu Mochila Bucket Bag
–Mini Wayuu Mochila Bags 10+ Colors
2. Carriel Satchel
Produced in the Antioquian town of Jericó, the Carriel Satchel is a staple of the region and one of the most unique souvenirs you can pick up in Colombia.
These bags might look small, but are home to plenty of tiny pockets and sections perfect for holding your daily essentials. In fact, its name carriel actually derives from “carry-all.”
The streets of Jericó are filled with artisans crafting these bags, combining swatches of durable leather with colorful textiles and a signature patch of furry cowhide. The resulting bag is perfect for carrying your daily essentials on a long horseback journey – or you know, just around town!
The best place to buy Carriel Satchels is in the town of Jericó, but the bags are available at markets throughout the country, especially in the department of Antioquia and surrounding regions.
3. Kuna Textiles
Traditionally made by the Guna people of northern Colombia and nearby Panama, Kuna textiles are characterized by their colorful, intricate designs and have now become a popular souvenir throughout Latin America.
Known locally as “molas,” these textiles are made using a reverse appliqué technique – the fabric is sewn together in layers, then cut apart to reveal the designs. Popular designs include birds, plants, and other animals, whereas some designs are purely geometric. Traditionally, mola designs told stories, and also offered the wearer protection.
You can find kuna mola designs adorning all kinds of items across Colombia, from wallets to pillowcases to purses. You can also find kuna mola fabric sold, perfect for hanging on your wall or even sewing an item of your own.
Shop Kuna Mola Textiles on Etsy
–Vintage Mola Textile Panel
–Vintage Kuna Mola Tapestry
–Handmade Mola Backpack and Leather Bag
4. Sombrero Vueltiao
Perhaps the most iconic hat of Colombia, the sombrero vueltiao originates from the Colombian coast but is now a staple throughout the country.
This intricate, black and white hat gets its name from the Spanish word “vuelta” or “lap,” as it’s made from long strips of arrow cane sewn around one another. The hat originates from the Zenú indigenous people of the region – created as a form of protection from the hot Caribbean sun!
The hat is produced from caña flecha, a cane endemic to the Colombian coast. While they now produce synthetic sombrero vueltiaos, the authentic ones are still produced using entirely natural ingredients on the Colombian coast.
Sombrero Vueltiaos vary in price, depending on the quality of fibers and the number of vueltas, or caña strips, used to produce the hat. More economic options will include the quinciano, which uses 15 pairs of cane, whereas more expensive options include the veintisiete, which uses 27 pairs of cane. A good quality sombrero vueltiao will be flexible, retaining its shape after being folded.
Sombrero vueltiaos are available throughout the country due to their popularity, but if you want to buy them from their origin, the best place to visit is the town of Tuchín in the department of Cordoba, the birthplace of the sombrero vueltiao. Another alternative option is the artisanal town of Sampues in the department of Sucre.
Shop Sombrero Vueltiaos Online
-My Top Brand: Sombvueltiao
–Sombrero Vueltiao of Colombia by Manos Colombianas
–Sombrero Vueltiao in 19, 21, and 23 laps options
5. Caña Flecha Products
Besides sombrero vueltiaos, caña flecha is used to make a variety of products, from hand woven bracelets to intricate coin purses. If you aren’t quite in the market for a full sombrero vueltiao but still want a caña flecha product, this can be a great alternative option.
I actually have a pair of caña flecha earrings, which I love as they’re lightweight, and match my sombrero vueltiao! Caña flecha products are sold throughout the country, but you’re most likely to find a wider variety along the Colombian coastline where the caña flecha is produced.
6. Fique Handicrafts
Fique is natural fiber that grows throughout the Andean region of Colombia, created from a plant in the Furcraea genus, similar to agave. The leaves are stripped, dried, and woven together to create a variety of products – from earrings to coasters to handbags.
Fique is known for its durability, but it’s also a highly sustainable fiber, as the plant requires very little water to grow. It is an important heritage product of the country, especially in the department of Santander, and most notably the town of Curití, where artisans have been crafting fique products for centuries.
Perhaps the best-known fique products are fique rugs, which are known for their durability and natural colors. The best place to buy these rugs is straight from the source in the town of Curití, but they are available in markets throughout the country.
Fique is also used to make Guacamayas, traditional bowls created by the U’wa indigenous people in the Andean regions of the country. These bowls are created using a coiling technique, and are often dyed bright colors and feature intricate patterns.
Shop Fique Handicrafts on Etsy
Fique Braided Placemat
Fique Hand-Knitted Bucket Hat
Colombian Handmade Fique Bags
7. Iraca Placemats
Another beautiful natural fiber is Iraca, extracted from the toquilla palm, native to northern Colombia and Central America. The texture is similar to that of wicker or rattan, and is durable yet lightweight.
Iraca is used to make a variety of products – from handbags to fans to baskets – but perhaps the most well known in Colombia are Iraca Placements, woven in intricate designs and often dyed bright colors. These placemats are a great, lightweight Colombian souvenir that you can put to good use back at home.
Shop Iraca Placemats on Etsy
–Apalma Handmade Iraca Placemats
–Iraca Placemats with Coasters
–Floral Iraca Placemats
8. Aguadeña Hat
A staple of Colombia’s coffee region, Aguadeño hats are worn by coffee farmers and coffee lovers alike. The name comes from its birthplace in the town of Aguadas, right in the middle of Colombia’s eje cafetero.
While some hats are now made with synthetic fibers, they are traditionally produced from the toquilla palm (the same used to make the aforementioned Iraca Placemats!) The fiber is light in color, but the hats are traditionally finished with a dark band, usually made from leather or fabric.
A good-quality Aduadeño hat is lightweight yet flexible, perfect for days spent outside in the coffee farms. If you want to buy a hat straight from the source, a trip to the town of Aguadeño will not only give you the opportunity to buy this unique souvenir, but also learn about its history and see the production process in action. Aguadas is located about 4 hours south of Medellín in the department of Caldas.
If you can’t make it to Aguadas directly, Aguadeño hats are available throughout Antioquia and in nearly any town throughout the Colombian coffee region.
Shop Aguadeño Hats on Etsy
Panama Hat handmade in Colombia
Hand-painted Aguadeño Hat
9. Ruana Poncho
Colombia’s ruana poncho is the perfect answer to the rainy, changing weather of the Andean region. Traditionally made from thick wool, these ponchos are created in a rectangular shape with an opening for the head, sometimes with a slit down the front to the hem. To quote my partner, “it’s like a blanket you can wear!”
Ruanas were traditionally made by the indigenous people in the Colombian Andes – in fact, the name ruana likely comes from the local Muisca language, meaning “Land of Blankets.” These days they are most often associated with the department of Boyaca, Colombia’s coldest department. However, they’ve become a popular garment throughout the departments surrounding the capital city of Bogota, in the heart of the cordillera andina.
Ruanas can be found sold at markets throughout the country – especially nearby Bogota. However,if you really want to get back to its roots, a visit to the towns of Nobsa or Paipa in Boyaca are a great place to pick up ruanas from local artisans.
Shop Ruanas on Etsy
-Colombian Ruana with hood
–Handwoven alpaca silk ruana
–Unisex Ruana handmade in Medellin, Colombia
10. La Pollera Skirt
La Pollera Colora literally means “brightly colored skirt,” and this traditional garment is exactly that! It’s a staple of many traditional dances and parades and often worn during a variety of Colombian celebrations like Barranquilla Carnival in the department of Atlántico. You’ll most often see them worn while dancing fandango or cumbia.
You’ll see women wearing these layered, colorful skirts all over Colombia, though they’re actually popular throughout Latin America, brought from the Spanish colonizers in the 16th century. They’re traditionally made from cotton or wool and tend to be heavily embellished with ribbons, beads, and embroidery.
Due to the many decorations, and often layers of fabric that it takes to construct a pollera, they tend to be heavy, but are certainly worth the weight as they’re one of the most beautiful souvenirs you can find in Colombia. Many boutiques throughout the country sell polleras in different colors and styles.
11. Alpargata Shoes
The Colombian take on the espadrille, these simple cotton sandals were traditionally worn by campesinos, or farmers, when they would enter town after walking from the countryside. With flat soles made from woven twine and a heavy cotton strap securing the toes and heel, they were easily transportable and provided protection from the city streets.
These days, the shoes have become a novelty at many shops throughout Colombia’s coffee region. Artisan boutiques along Calle Real in the town of Salento sell alpargatas constructed with colorful fabric and a number of designs, and plastic soles have become commonplace to help navigate the cobblestone streets. At some shops you’ll even find alpargatas printed with hummingbirds, wax palms, or other images of Colombia.
Due to the flat soles and cotton uppers, the shoes are lightweight and space efficient, making them a great space-saving souvenir to buy in Colombia. The shoes are primarily sold throughout Colombia’s coffee region.
Shop Alpargatas on Etsy
–Women’s Alpargata Shoes
–Customizable Alpargata Shoes
12. Soccer/Football Jersey
Soccer, or fútbol, is a way of life in Colombia – the national sport of the country. Whether you plan to attend a game or not during your time in Colombia, picking up a jersey can be a great way to remember your trip.
Colombian football jerseys come in plenty of different designs, but the classic includes a solid yellow body with blue and red stripes, paying homage to the Colombian flag. You could also opt to support a specific Colombian team through your jersey of choice — consider the Millonarios FC from Bogota or Independiente Medellín.
You can opt to visit a sports-focused store in any major city for a higher quality jersey, or you’ll find plenty of vendors selling knockoffs in the street, especially around game days!
Shop Colombia Jerseys on Amazon
–Colombia 2024 Yellow Jersey (Mens)
–Colombia 2024 Yellow Jersey (Womens)
–FIFA 2023 World Cup Jersey
13. Swimwear
If you’re spending any time along one of Colombia’s many beaches, having a proper swimsuit is a necessity. Luckily, the Colombian coast is one of the best places to buy a swimsuit, a Colombian souvenir you can use for years to come!
Cartagena is one of the most popular shopping destinations in the world, offering a variety of local Colombian brands to choose from before a day spent lazing away on Playa Blanca or jetting off to the Island of San Andres. There are plenty of local brands available in the city, from Maaji Swimwear to Agua Bendita. Colombian fashion is bright, colorful, and bold – don’t be afraid to embrace it!
Shop Colombian Swimwear Online
–Maaji Swimwear
–Agua Bendita Swim
–OndadeMar Swimwear
14. Chinchorro Hammock
15. Embera Necklace
These intricately beaded necklaces are traditionally made by the Embera people, native to Panama and Colombia’s Pacific regions. Defined by their colors and complex patterns, these necklaces are a beautiful, bold statement to add to any outfit.
Beading is an important traditional practice of the Embera people, one of the most marginalized of all indigenous groups in Colombia. Many Embera people have been forced out of their homes due to Colombia’s armed conflict in the Pacific regions, and the creation of these beaded pieces is not only a way to maintain their indigenous traditions, but also support their communities.
In many of Colombia’s major cities, it’s not uncommon to see women making and selling the intricate necklaces on the streets, oftentimes alongside other beaded pieces like earrings and bracelets. Many organizations throughout the country also work closely with the Embera people to create these handicrafts as a form of social welfare. I highly recommend checking out the Embera Bead Project, which supports displaced Embera artisans in the city of Medellin.
Shop Embera Necklaces on Etsy
–Embera Butterfly Necklace
–Embera Collar and Matching Earrings
–Embera Necklace Black and White
16. Colombian Emeralds
Colombian emeralds are world renowned for their rich green color and natural abundance. Most commonly found in the Andean region of the country, a plethora of all types of emerald jewelry can be found on streets all over the country, especially in the capital city of Bogota. In fact, there’s even an Emerald Museum in the city!
Emeralds were of great importance to the indigenous peoples of the Andean region, specifically the Muzo people, known as the “emerald people.” The Muzo people used to extract emeralds from rocks using pointed wooden poles, called coa, and produced a variety of beautiful emerald handicrafts, many of which are still on display at the Emerald Museum in Bogota.
When purchasing emerald pieces, please remember to pay attention to the sustainability and conditions in which the emeralds were mined. Here’s a great article about many things to consider when purchasing emeralds in Colombia.
17. La Chamba Black Pottery
The town of La Chamba in the department of Tolima is notable around Colombia for its unique pottery – black, matte-finished ceramics that have a look almost like stone. An earthenware piece from La Chamba is one of the most unique souvenirs you can buy in Colombia.
Located on the banks of the Magdalena River, the town of La Chamba has been producing these unique pieces for centuries, using local clay taken right from the river bank. Before firing, the dark clay is painted with a terracotta slip, giving them a natural sheen after they are fired. Check out this video to learn more about the process of making La Chamba pottery.
Pottery from La Chamba is often quite functional, focusing on utilitarian kitchen wares like pots, pans, and plates. The pottery is sold at markets throughout the country, but if you really want to get back to its roots, and see how the process is done, consider taking a visit to the town of La Chamba, located about 4 hours south of Bogota.
Shop La Chamba Pottery on Amazon
–La Chamba Clay Pot
–La Chamba Flat Stew Pot
–La Chamba Oval Serving Dish
18. Raquira Pottery
If you’re looking for more artistic-focused pieces of earthenware as your Colombian souvenir, look no further than the town of Ráquira. The name literally means “City of Pots” in the local indigenous language, and with streets lined with wheels and pottery of all varieties, it isn’t hard to see why!
This town is located about 3 hours north of Bogota, and is a popular day trip from the city for those seeking unique Colombian souvenirs. Pottery is a long-standing tradition in town, often considered the “cradle of Colombian handicrafts” and local artisans proudly display their handiwork on every street corner. You’ll be able to find everything from clay windchimes to hand-painted plates, and of course, ceramic piggy banks!
If you don’t have time in your itinerary for a trip to Raquira, you can still find authentic red-clay pottery at sold markets throughout the country.
19. Totumo Cups
The Totumo fruit is a gourd native to the Colombian coast, traditionally used to make a variety of kitchenware. Perhaps most well known are totumo cups – dried, hollowed out bowls popularly used for drinking spirits.
When fresh, totumo is a green, mildly-flavored gourd that grows in abundance throughout the Colombian Caribbean. Traditionally, the fruit has been used for curative and medicinal properties, and the outside hardened to create cups, bowls, and even spoons. Don’t be surprised if you’re offered arroz de coco with a totumo spoon in the coastal city of Cartagena, or handed a totumo bowl full of chirinchi in the department of La Guajira.
You can find totumo souvenirs at many markets in coastal Colombia, from intricately carved spoons to colorful painted bowls.
Shop Totumo Products on Etsy
–Totumo Cups 3-Piece Set
–Vintage Totumo Rattles
–Hand-carved Totumo Cups
20. “It’s Not ColUmbia…” Gear
If kitschy souvenirs are your thing, you have to pick up a “It’s not ColUmbia, it’s ColOmbia,” printed on something! Hats, magnets, keychains, you name it, this slogan is commonplace on knicknacks found at nearby any tourist market.
Besides “ColOmbia…” you’ll also find plenty of knicknacks with popular Colombian phrases on them, from “Chimba!” to “Que hubo parcero?” These knicknacks are fun to bring home as memories of your trip, or a funny gift to be given to friends.
You’ll find a lot of these type of Colombian souvenirs in popular tourist areas like Bogota’s Plaza Bolivar and Medellín’s Comuna 13, or they can even be picked up at the airport on the way home!
Shop Kitschy Colombia Souvenirs on Amazon
–“I’m Not Yelling, I’m Colombian” Mug
–Colombia Sticker Pack
–“Que Chimba Parce” T-Shirt
21. Mini Jeep Willy
Another kitschy souvenir emblematic of Colombia’s coffee region, a mini Jeep Willy is a great way to remember time spent in Colombia’s eje cafetero.
These heavy-duty vehicles were originally brought to Colombia from the US during World War II, but quickly became a staple in the coffee region due to their ease in navigating the winding mountain roads. These days, they’re used to transport locals and visitors alike all around the region – they’re actually the preferred method of transportation to visit Salento’s famous Cocora Valley!
These days, Jeep Willys have become synonymous with the coffee region, and miniature versions of the vehicles can be found at stores throughout the eje cafetero. They make a great Colombian souvenir for kids, or a fun way to remember an adventurous ride around the coffee region!
22. Mini Paisa House
Paisa towns are notable for their colorful architecture. Defined by their intricate balconies, painted window frames, and decorative images adorning the whitewashed walls, these buildings are recognizable throughout the country and beyond – in fact, this architecture inspired Disney’s Encanto!
There are plenty of Colombian souvenirs that pay homage to this unique architectural style, from refrigerator magnets to miniature wooden house facades that can be hung on your wall. You’ll also find plenty of souvenirs depicting Paisa-style doors, oftentimes the most colorful part of the house!
This style of Colombian souvenir is available in abundance at markets throughout the Colombian coffee region and department of Antioquia, though you’ll also likely be able to find similar items at any tourist market in Colombia’s major cities.
Shop Paisa Houses on Etsy
–Casita Colombiana Original
–Wooden Paisa House with Balcony
23. Beaded Hummingbird
Colombia is home to the largest diversity of hummingbirds in the world, with 165 recorded species found in the country. As a result, the hummingbird has become a national symbol and is a vital part of many indigenous traditions throughout the country.
Hummingbird imagery is present in many artisanal crafts, but one of the best souvenirs to take home is a beaded colibrí, or hummingbird. These birds are available in numerous different colors and styles, representing the diversity of hummingbirds in the country, and often hang from a delicate string, perfect for placing in your window at home.
Beaded hummingbirds are also often available in the form of earrings and keychains and found at markets throughout the country.
Shop Beaded Hummingbirds on Etsy
–Beaded Hummingbird 8+ Colors
–Hummingbird Ornament with Extra Long Tail
–Beaded Hummingbird Keychain
24. Record: Bambuco, Cumbia, Salsa, or Vallenato
There are multiple musical styles that define Colombia, but it depends on where you are! Enjoy life on the coast with lively Vallenato music, celebrate Spanish history with Cumbia, enjoy the Bambuco traditions of the coffee region, or put on your dancing shoes and get ready for some salsa.
Whatever your favorite style of Colombian music, a record makes a great souvenir so you can listen to it at your liking. Don’t have a record player? Record sleeves still make pretty cool wall art!
Cali, Colombia is the unofficial music (and salsa) capital of the country, so it’s a great place to go shopping for records. However, if you don’t have time to make it to the city, both Bogotá and Medellín are home to a number of stores where you can pick up a variety of records representing Colombia’s diverse musical traditions!
Shop Records on Amazon
–Cumbia Cumbia 1 & 2 (Double vinyl)
–Lo Mejor en Vallenatos (CD)
–Tributo a la Salsa Colombiana (CD)
–BONUS: Encanto Soundtrack Record (double vinyl)
25. Gabriel Garcia Marquez Book
Gabriel Garcia Marquez is the creator of magical realism, a literary style that now defines Latin American literature as a whole. Born on the Colombian coast, he is one of the most notable authors of all time, his books the perfect accompaniment to any travels through Colombia.
You can opt to pick up one of his novels to accompany you through your travels, or his books are sold at nearly every bookstore in the country. His most famous titles include 100 Years of Solitude and Love in the Time of Cholera, which you can find in over 20 different languages. However, in 2023, a “rediscovered novel” was published as his final work, titled “Until August.”
Bringing home one of Garcia Marquez’s books is a Colombian souvenir that will stand the test of time, a piece of magical realism bringing the stories of Colombia around the world.
Shop for Gabriel Garcia Marquez books on Amazon
–Love in the Time of Cholera (Hardback, English edition)
–100 Years of Solitude (Paperback, English edition)
–Until August (Hardcover, English edition)
26. Guacharaca
For Vallenato fans, there’s no better Colombian souvenir than a guacharaca, one of the three staple instruments in the musical style. This rasp is made from the branches of the corozo palm, producing a unique sound that defines Vallenato music.
Made from a lightweight branch carved with ridges, the guacharaca is then scraped with a guacharaquero, or wire fork, as a form of percussion. While it’s most notable for its role in Vallenato music, it’s also commonly used in Cumbia.
Guacharaca’s make easily transportable, lightweight souvenirs for fans of Colombian music. They’re available at most music stories throughout the country, as well as a popular item sold during the Vallenato Festival in Valledupar, the capital city of the department of Cesar.
Shop Guacharacas on Amazon
–Guacharaca en Caña de Chonta con Raspador (30 cm)
–Guacharaca en Caña de Chonta con Raspador (50 cm)
–Stainless Steel Guacharaca with Scraper
27. Panela
Panela, or cane sugar, is one of Colombia’s largest exports, a defining flavor throughout the country. In fact, it’s hard to order a menú del día without getting offered a cup of aguapanela (panela juice flavored with lime) on the side! It’s the perfect souvenir to bring a taste of Colombia into your home.
Panela is often sold in solid discs, which can be used to make aguapanela or serve as a substitute for sugar in many baking recipes. The sugarcane is sold at supermarkets throughout the country, or you can visit a finca where they produce panela to pick up some from the source. The department of Valle de Cauca is one of the largest producers of panela, and there are plenty of panela fincas a driving distance from the capital city of Cali.
Shop Panela on Amazon
–Iberia Panela Fracionada (32 ounces)
–Fela Panela Brown Sugar Cane (16 ounces)
–Raw Unrefined Colombian Panela (1 kg)
28. Colombian Coffee
You can’t visit Colombia without trying, and buying, some Colombian coffee! Colombia is the third-largest coffee-producing country in the world, and with the majority being Arabica coffee – aka hand picked and locally processed – it’s hard to find tastier brews anywhere.
The best way to support local Colombian coffee farmers is buying directly from coffee-producing fincas, or farms. There are plenty of fincas near the town of Salento in the department of Quindío that offer coffee tours, so you can learn how the coffee is produced and taste it along the way, then buy a bag of your favorite on-site after the tour.
If you don’t have time for a coffee tour, there are still plenty of specialty roasts sold all around the country. Look out for cafe de origen, which signifies coffee grown and produced on a local finca. Many small coffee shops also have their own homegrown coffee brands that they serve on-site.
Shop Colombian Coffee on Amazon
–San Alberto Whole Bean Medium Roast
–Cafe Quindío Whole Bean Gourmet Coffee
–Arhuaco Coffee from Colombian Sierra Nevada
29. Chocolate
Chocolate lovers listen up, because once you’ve tried Colombian chocolate, you’ll never go back. Whether a milky chocolate is more your speed or the darker the better, chocolate is one of the best souvenirs you can bring home from Colombia.
Chocolate is produced in many different regions of Colombia, and many farmers offer tours of their fincas where visitors can learn about the chocolate production process and even make their own! My favorite chocolate tour is at Finca El Turpial outside Pereira, but chocolate tours are also popular in the coastal department of Magdalena.
If you take a chocolate tour you can pick up some chocolate right from the source, but locally-produced chocolate is also available at markets across the country. My favorite is Chocolate Santander – don’t skip on the raspberry flavor!
30. Molinillo Whisk
In Colombia, chocolate isn’t just eaten, it’s drunk! Chocolate santafereño is a popular beverage throughout the Andean region of the country, made with pastillas, or blocks of hardened chocolate, spiced with cinnamon and cloves. The chocolate is melted down and combined with milk, then mixed with a wooden molinillo whisk to combine all the flavors. You can even add a block of queso campesino (local cheese) on the side if you wish!
You can buy all the ingredients to make this traditional drink on your own, but it also makes a great gift to share the flavors of Colombia with friends back home. Molinillo whisks also make a great addition to any kitchen, beautifully carved and perfect for making hot chocolate or hanging on the wall to remind you or your trip.
You can find pastillas de chocolate santafereño in most supermarkets across the country. Molinillo whisks can often be found at specialty kitchen stores or local artisan markets.
Shop Colombian Chocolate on Amazon
–Corona Cinnamon and Cloves Chocolate Bars
–Corona Traditional Con Azucar Chocolate Bars
–Traditional Wooden Molinillo Whisk
31. Arepa Flour
The arepa might just be the most emblematic dish of Colombia, a cake made from cornmeal, though every department of the country will argue that their arepas are best!
Whatever your favorite arepa is, you can make your own at home by picking up some arepa flour as a souvenir. Pre-packaged arepa flour can be found at nearly every supermarket, but not all arepa flour is created equal! Make sure to pay attention to the type of arepa flour you’re buying to ensure you can make the arepas you want – the three major types sold are yellow cornmeal, white cornmeal, and choclo cornmeal, made from larger, sweeter corn.
Can’t decide which type you want? Consider buying all three types of flour and having an arepa taste test with your friends and family back home!
Shop Arepa Flour on Amazon
–P.A.N. White Corn Meal Gluten Free Flour for Arepas
–P.A.N. Yellow Corn Meal Gluten Free Flour for Arepas
–P.A.N Sweet Corn Mix
32. Arequipe
Arequipe is often compared to dulce de leche, but this caramel spread is distinctly Colombian. Often served between two obleas, or wafer cookies, it’s one of the most popular treats in the country. It’s one of the most popular sweets in the country, typically eaten around Christmas time in Colombia.
You can find locally produced, smaller batches of arequipe flavored with everything from coffee to coconut, but the sweet is also mass produced and sold in nearly every supermarket in the country. It’s a great souvenir to bring back home and serve alongside everything from fruit to baked goods! Or better yet, grab a spoon and eat it on its own!
Shop Arequipe on Amazon
–Arequipe Andina 2-pack
–Obleas con Arequipe (traditional wafer snack)
–Colombina Arequipe Dulce de Leche
33. Aguardiente
The national drink of Colombia, Aguardiente, or “burning water,” is a clear, anise-flavored spirit that is drunk throughout the country. It’s relatively low in proof – only 29% – but it’s lighter, almost fruity flavor makes it go down easily.
While aguardiente is drunk throughout the country, each region also has their own brand and local distilleries. While you’ll find some mass produced labels – typically Aguardiente Antioqueño (from Antioquia) and Aguardiente Amarillo (from Caldas), you’ll also find plenty of local spirits, so you can bring home a bottle from your favorite region of Colombia!
If you like sampling or collecting local spirits, a bottle of aguardiente is a great Colombian souvenir to add to your bar at home.
34. Cocadas
Cocadas are a decadent, delicious candy popular along the Colombian coast. While traditional cocadas are made with panela and coconut, you’ll also find cocadas flavored with fruit, cinnamon, and chocolate!
The best place to sample local costeño candies is at the Portal de los Dulces in Cartagena. They have all the flavors of cocadas available, as well as a variety of other sweets popular on the Colombian coast, from tamarind balls to yuca sweets. You can buy sampler boxes of the many different sweets available, or stock up on cocadas of all flavors.
Coconut-based sweets are popular throughout the Colombian Caribbean. You’ll be able to find cocadas at many markets along Colombia’s Atlantic coast, as well as on the islands of San Andres and Providencia. They’re one of the best souvenirs to bring home from a trip through the Colombian Caribbean.
35. Bocadillos
Bocadillos literally means “snacks,” and the popularity of this sweet snack throughout the country goes to show how it’s become synonymous with the word! Bocadillos are sweet balls of guava and panela, gelatinized and wrapped in a banana leaf. Colombians swear it gives you energy – I argue a sugar rush.
Bocadillos are available all over the country, handmade on street corners or mass produced in nearly every Colombian supermarket. The sweet treat is also sometimes served with arequipe if you want it even sweeter, or cheese if you’re craving a savory kick.
Pick up a pack of bocadillos of your liking at the store and bring them home to share with your friends – they’re one of the tastiest Colombian souvenirs you can find!
Shop Bocadillos on Amazon
–Bocadillo Veleño (18 Count Guava)
–Bocadillo con Arequipe (Guava with Caramel)
–Bocadillos de Plátano (Banana)
The Best Places to Buy Colombian Souvenirs
Though a few things mentioned in this article are specific to certain towns or regions, tourist markets in most major cities offer a variety of the Colombian souvenirs mentioned above. Here are some of the best markets to explore throughout the country.
Where to Buy Souvenirs in Bogotá
Mercado de las Pulgas de San Alejo | This open-air flea market has everything from local handicrafts to kitschy souvenirs to antiques that would fit in on your grandma’s dresser. It takes place nearly every day along Calle 7 in downtown Bogotá, but the largest day is Sunday.
Paloquemao Market | This bustling local food market is a shock on the senses but a great opportunity to experience the diversity of Colombian flavors. I highly recommend visiting with a guided tour like this one and picking up some souvenirs along the way.
Pasaje Rivas Craft Market | The largest craft market in the city, this is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir made by a local artisan and learn about the diversity of Colombian handicrafts.
Where to Buy Souvenirs in Medellín
Placita de Flórez – This food market is the heart and soul of the city, open every day, even on Sundays and holidays. It’s one of the best places to pick up some edible Colombian souvenirs, or learn about the variety of tropical fruits grown in Colombia.
Mercado Artesenal Sanalejo – This is the largest crafts market in the region, held on the first and third Saturday of every month. It’s one of the best places to pick up locally-made handicrafts from the department of Antioquia and beyond!
Envigado Flea Market – If you happen to be visiting Medellín during the monthly Envigado Flea Market, this is one of the best places in the city to find souvenirs for extraordinary prices. From local handicrafts to vintage treasures, it’s one of the most unique places to visit in the city.
Where to Buy Souvenirs in Cartagena
Las Bóvedas – This market is located right underneath Cartagena’s Old City Walls and sells everything from traditional handicrafts to kitschy souvenirs to local art. This area was actually originally the dungeons of Cartagena, so they’re a unique place to explore.
Bazurto Market – This bustling city market is home to everything you could possible imagine – local food, handicrafts, clothes, souvenirs, you name it! It’s one of the most unique experiences in the city but best to go with a guide to help you get around.
Planning Your Trip to Colombia
Need help planning your trip to Colombia? I’ve traveled extensively around the country and love helping people plan their perfect trip to the country of beauty. Check out all of my Colombia Itineraries or leave me a comment below with any questions!
What was your favorite thing you bought in Colombia?
What to Pack for Colombia
Planning a trip to Colombia? Consider adding some of these essentials to your suitcase for a truly epic trip!
💧 Filtered Water Bottle – Save on the single-use plastic and protect from parasites!
🧥 Heavy-Duty Rain Jacket – For the ever-changing Colombian weather!
🎒 Anti-theft Backpack – Perfect for exploring big cities or trekking in the jungle
🧖♀️ Microfiber Travel Towel – A go-to travel essential anywhere in the world!
🔌 Portable Charger – Keep your phone charged out on the go
🔐 Mini Padlock – Perfect for securing your backpack or locking up your items at the hotel
🔋 Universal Travel Adapter – Charge all your devices anywhere in the world!
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Virginia Taylor (Ginna) is a travel writer and photographer exploring the world until her boots wear through. She’s currently on a mission to explore all 32 departments of Colombia, though she formerly called the Middle East home. Want to know more? Visit the About Page.