what to buy in chile

2 min read 16-01-2025

Chile offers a unique blend of cultures and landscapes, reflected in its diverse range of products. From artisanal crafts to world-class wines, this shopper's guide highlights the best things to buy in Chile, ensuring you take home a piece of this captivating country.

Chilean Wine: A Global Treasure

Chile's wine industry is renowned worldwide, producing high-quality wines at competitive prices. A trip to Chile isn't complete without bringing home a few bottles.

What to look for:

Carmenere: This is Chile's signature grape, producing rich, full-bodied red wines. Look for wines from the Maipo Valley or Colchagua Valley.
Cabernet Sauvignon: Chile's climate produces excellent Cabernet Sauvignon, often with notes of blackcurrant and cedar.
Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp and refreshing, Chilean Sauvignon Blanc is a great alternative to New Zealand varieties. Consider wines from the Casablanca Valley.
Carménère: This unique grape, almost extinct in its original French home, thrives in Chile, making incredibly flavorful reds.

Where to buy: You'll find excellent wines at local supermarkets, wine shops ( vinotecas), and directly at vineyards. Consider visiting a vineyard for a tasting and purchase directly from the source.

Artisan Crafts: Unique Souvenirs from Chile

Chile boasts a rich tapestry of indigenous cultures, each with its own unique artistic traditions. Purchasing artisan crafts supports local communities and provides unique souvenirs.

Must-have crafts:

Alpaca wool items: From sweaters and scarves to gloves and hats, alpaca wool is incredibly soft, warm, and durable. Look for handcrafted items, often featuring traditional Andean patterns.
Copper crafts: Chile has a long tradition of copper craftsmanship. You can find everything from decorative bowls and trays to jewelry and sculptures.
Rapa Nui (Easter Island) handicrafts: If you visit Easter Island, be sure to purchase authentic carvings and artwork, supporting the local Rapa Nui culture. Authenticity is key here; be wary of imitations.
Ponchos and textiles: Vibrant textiles and hand-woven ponchos showcase the intricate designs and rich cultural heritage of Chile’s indigenous communities.

Food and Drink: Taste of Chile

Beyond wine, Chile offers a delicious array of food and drink products to take home.

Gourmet delights:

Pisco: This grape brandy is Chile's national drink, perfect for cocktails or sipping on its own.
Lucuma: This unique fruit has a sweet, caramel-like flavor and is used in desserts, jams, and even ice cream. Look for lucuma powder for easy transport.
Maca: This Andean root is known for its purported health benefits and is available in powder or capsule form.
Chilean Sea Salt: Chile's coastline provides high-quality sea salt with a distinct flavor.

Other Notable Purchases:

Mate: This traditional South American gourd and metal straw used for drinking yerba mate tea is a popular and unique souvenir.
Natural beauty products: Chile's rich biodiversity provides ingredients for natural cosmetics and skincare products.
Books about Chilean history and culture: Deepen your understanding of Chile by bringing home a book on its fascinating history, literature, or art.

Tips for Smart Shopping in Chile:

Bargaining: Bargaining is common in markets and with street vendors, especially for artisan crafts.
Authenticity: Be wary of counterfeit products, especially when purchasing artisan crafts or Rapa Nui souvenirs. Look for certificates of authenticity if possible.
Transportation: Consider the weight and fragility of your purchases, especially when traveling by air.
Duty-free allowances: Familiarize yourself with duty-free allowances before making large purchases.

Chile offers a plethora of unique and memorable items to purchase. By following this guide, you’re sure to bring home a collection of treasures that will remind you of your Chilean adventure for years to come. Enjoy your shopping!