Shopping & Souvenirs
What to Buy in Chile
Chile has some unique souvenirs and products that are found nowhere else in the world:
Typical Souvenirs
- Lapis Lazuli: Chile's national stone — a deep blue semi-precious stone found only in Chile and Afghanistan. Best in Isla Negra (in front of Neruda's house) or in lapis lazuli shops in Santiago (Calle Bellavista). Beware of fakes! Genuine lapis lazuli has golden pyrite inclusions and feels cool in the hand. Rings from 15,000 CLP, pendants from 10,000 CLP
- Chilean Wine: A few bottles of Carménère or Cabernet Sauvignon from the Maipo Valley make the perfect gift. In supermarkets from 3,000 CLP (3€!) for excellent quality. Note: Max. 2 bottles duty-free to Germany
- Pisco: A bottle of Alto del Carmen or Mistral Pisco (with a recipe for Pisco Sour!) is a wonderful gift. From 5,000 CLP
- Mapuche Textiles: Handwoven ponchos, blankets, and scarves with traditional patterns. Most authentic at the market in Temuco or with Mapuche communities in the lake district. Poncho from 30,000 CLP
- Merken (Ají): Chilean chili powder — smoky, moderately hot, perfect for marinades. Available in small jars at every market. 2,000–5,000 CLP
- Sal de Atacama: Pink desert salt from the Salar de Atacama — a gourmet souvenir. Available in San Pedro, small bag from 3,000 CLP
- Maqui Powder: The "superfood" from Chile — maqui berries have the highest antioxidant content of any known fruit. As a powder for smoothies, available in health food stores and markets
- Copper Crafts: Chile is the world's largest copper producer — copper jewelry, cups, and decorations are available everywhere. Beautiful pieces at the market in Los Dominicos (Santiago)
Shopping Malls
Santiago has huge, modern shopping malls that are also cultural meeting points: Costanera Center (the tallest building in South America — 300 m, "Sky Costanera" observation deck on the 62nd floor, 15,000 CLP), Parque Arauco, and Alto Las Condes. International brands are more expensive here than in Europe.
Markets
- Mercado Central, Santiago: Fish, seafood, and restaurants
- La Vega Central, Santiago: Fruits, vegetables, and cheap lunches
- Los Dominicos, Santiago: Handicrafts and souvenirs — the best souvenir market in the city
- Feria de Dalcahue, Chiloé: Sunday craft market with woolen goods and woodwork
- Feria Fluvial, Valdivia: Fish and seafood on the riverbank, with sea lions