If you're looking for Peru inspired gifts, you've come to the right place! Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Food and Drinks
There's no denying that Peruvian cooking has a kick to it. If someone you know is looking to add some spice to their life, why not get them some
aji amarillo? It won't put their mouth on fire, but it will definitely add spice to a dish.
For the cook in your life, get them a
Peruvian cookbook. They have tons of great recipes like
ceviche, lomo saltado, aji de gallina, papa rellena, and much more.
If someone you know loves trying different alcoholic drinks from around the would, they should definitely try
Pisco Sour. If they like taking shots, there are a number of
Peruvian shot glasses to choose from. And despite what the Chileans may say,
Pisco is Peruvian. If you want to buy a unique non-alcoholic drink for someone, try
Inca Kola. It's what Coca Cola is to the USA and what
Irn Bru is to Scotland.
Alpaca
Wool socks are a game changer. Once you try them out you won't go back to cotton socks. They can
last for years, are much better for your feet than cotton since
they're anti-fungal, and many of them can be tossed in the dryer.
Alpaca is superior to wool since it is softer, warmer, and has no
lanolin which means it's hypoallergenic.
Alpaca socks
aren't as cheap as cotton socks, but you're paying for quality.
Considering how much use you'll get out of them, they are a relatively
inexpensive gift, so buy a pair or two for yourself as well.
Alpaca sweaters are warm and have gorgeous designs. They're super soft and people love wearing them. Traditional Peruvian hats, such as the
chullo, will keep your loved ones warm through the cold winter months. Don't forget a
warm shawl or even a
poncho that they can wrap around themselves to protect them from windy days.
Alpaca can be used for more than clothing. It also makes
great blankets and throws. It's great for cozying up on the couch and drinking
hot cocoa, from a
Peruvian mug, of course.
Music
If you know someone who could benefit from the gift of music, let the relaxing sounds of
traditional Peruvian music take away the holiday stress. For the musician in your life, let them make their own music, you can get them a
pan flute,
rain stick, or if they're more adventurous, the
cajon.
Books
There are a number of good books about Peruvian history. The book
Peru: An Ancient Andean Civilization provides a great intro to Peru. You've got to read New York Times Best Seller:
Turn Right at Machu Picchu. Finally,
The Last Day of the Incas is an epic story. For the person in your life who loves coffee table books,
Peru from the Andes to the Amazon is a great photographic journey around Peru.
More Gifts
If you're looking for more ideas, here are other
Peru inspired gift guides I've written.
Disclaimer:
Don't expect snow for Christmas in Peru! It'll be a green Christmas here. That doesn't stop Peruvians from drinking hot chocolate and eating paneton even though it's summer time. If you want to make traditional Peruvian hot chocolate, you'll have to use solid chocolate and add spices like cinnamon and cloves.
