If you like traditional Andean souvenirs, textiles will be the best option. Even during pre-Inca times, the people of the Andes mountains made exquisite alpaca wool fabrics. Today you can find everything from weavings for home decoration to knit sweaters and scarves.

The patterns usually represent the home of the weaver. Diamond patterns are usually lakes. Zigzags can be mountains. Circles can be the eyes of the puma or ñusta (Inca princess). Animals like vizcacha (above), llama, condor and fish also make frequent appearances in weavings.

Every tribe in the Peruvian Amazon jungle also has their own patterns. These are usually hand painted on homespun cotton fabrics. You’ll see all kinds of products, from purses to wall hangings, made from these beautifully patterned fabrics.

One of the best places to learn about weaving near Cusco is Awana Kancha, on the road between Cusco and Pisac.