Cute Souvenirs Everywhere! 4 Recommended Gifts to Buy in La Paz, Bolivia
La Paz, Bolivia’s de facto capital, is famed as a paradise for souvenirs! It’s known across South America as a haven for adorable, affordable knickknacks. With the growing popularity of the Uyuni Salt Flats—also located in Bolivia—the number of tourists has been on the rise.
In the city, souvenir shops line Sargarnaga Street and Linares Street, and they’re always bustling with visitors! Here are four recommended souvenirs to pick up in La Paz.
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Cute Souvenirs Everywhere! 4 Recommended Gifts to Buy in La Paz, Bolivia
1. Alpaca Goods
The alpaca is considered Bolivia’s national animal and even appears on the national coat of arms. It’s an iconic presence in quintessential Bolivian scenery! Lately, many people have also been charmed by its cuteness.
Alpaca-related items are very popular as La Paz souvenirs. You’ll find plenty of adorable options, such as alpaca dolls made with fluffy alpaca fiber and items embroidered with alpaca motifs—perfect gifts for friends who love cute accessories.
Alpaca fiber is lighter and higher quality than wool, so warm items like sweaters and hats are also popular. They make great mementos of La Paz and can be worn back home, too!
2. Textiles
Bolivian traditional dress dazzles with its vivid, colorful designs! In La Paz, you’ll see many people in black hats and bright indigenous clothing—it’s exciting just to take in the sights.
These colorful fabrics overflow in souvenir shops and are made into scarves, bags, pouches, and more. Since many of these items can be used right away while traveling, try wrapping yourself in local textiles during your stay in La Paz! You’ll feel a bit more connected to the place—and it’s fun.
Most items are lightweight, so small pieces like coin purses are perfect for bulk gifting. They’re compact and easy to pack for the trip home.
3. Finger Puppets
Finger puppets are plentiful in La Paz’s souvenir shops, where rows of colorful, hand-knitted versions tempt many visitors into buying them by the handful because they’re just so cute!
Originally meant as toys for children, many feature South American animal motifs like alpacas and condors, making them popular souvenirs. Because they’re handmade, their expressions vary widely, and even the same animal can look completely different. There are also tigers, pigs, and even characters like Superman—and remarkably, Pikachu. With the low prices, it’s easy to keep adding more to your basket! They’re the kind of item you’ll definitely want to bring home from La Paz.
4. Ekeko Dolls
The Ekeko doll is Bolivia’s god of fortune. It’s a wish-granting charm: if you have it hold the item you want to obtain that year, your wish is said to come true. While life-size versions exist, small ceramic ones are perfect as La Paz souvenirs.
With its trademark little mustache, the Ekeko has the cheerful vibe of a jovial South American uncle—quite amusing—and after being featured on Japanese TV, it has become a very popular gift item.
Among the many Ekeko dolls, you can choose one already holding something that matches your wish, or buy an open-armed, empty-handed version and attach the items you want. Common items include money and food, as well as instruments, cars, and houses. It’s a great way to entrust your wishes for the year to a doll you found in La Paz!
◎ Summary
How did you like these four recommended souvenirs from La Paz, Bolivia?
True to its reputation as South America’s knickknack heaven, La Paz overflows with colorful, cute items. With the huge variety and very reasonable prices, it’s hard not to go on a shopping spree! These adorable gifts are sure to delight whoever you give them to.
Since the city is full of things that charm lovers of cute goods, take your time and enjoy the hunt!
