Top Items at Aguas Calientes Artisan Market

The market offers a wide variety of Peruvian crafts. You will see many stalls selling similar items. It is wise to look around before you buy anything. Prices can vary between the many different sellers. Most artisans are happy to talk about their work. This is a great way to learn about local culture. Remember that most items are handmade. Small imperfections often show that a piece is truly authentic. Take your time to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere here.

• Best overall: Alpaca wool sweaters
• Best for families: Peruvian chullo hats
• Best for home: Hand-painted ceramic bulls
• Best free activity: Browsing local art displays

1. Name: Alpaca Wool Sweaters
   Type: clothing
   Why go: These garments are soft, warm, and very durable.
   Best for: Keeping warm in the high altitudes.
   Where: Central aisles of the market.
   Time: 20 minutes to browse.
   Cost: 40 to 120 Soles.
   Getting there: Walk through the main market exit.
   Tip: Genuine baby alpaca wool feels cold to the touch.
2. Name: Andean Silver Jewelry
   Type: jewelry
   Why go: Find beautiful designs featuring the Chakana or Incan cross.
   Best for: A high-quality souvenir or special gift.
   Where: Specialized jewelry stalls near the station entrance.
   Time: 15 minutes.
   Cost: 50 to 300 Soles.
   Getting there: Located near the train ticket counters.
   Tip: Look for the 925 stamp to ensure silver purity.
3. Name: Vibrantly Woven Textiles
   Type: textiles
   Why go: These rugs and wall hangings use traditional natural dyes.
   Best for: Adding a splash of color to your home.
   Where: Back rows of the market area.
   Time: 30 minutes.
   Cost: 30 to 150 Soles.
   Getting there: Follow the path toward the river.
   Tip: Ask if the colors come from plants or insects.
4. Name: Hand-Painted Ceramics
   Type: home decor
   Why go: Look for Pucará bulls which represent fertility and protection.
   Best for: Folk art collectors and home decoration.
   Where: Corner stalls with fragile displays.
   Time: 10 minutes.
   Cost: 10 to 60 Soles.
   Getting there: Near the market food section.
   Tip: Ask for extra bubble wrap for safe transport.
5. Name: Musical Woodwind Instruments
   Type: music
   Why go: Buy a traditional Quena flute or a Pan flute.
   Best for: Music lovers and unique wall art.
   Where: Stalls near the main plaza entrance.
   Time: 10 minutes.
   Cost: 15 to 45 Soles.
   Getting there: Walk from the station toward the town square.
   Tip: Ask the seller to play a few notes first.
6. Name: Handcrafted Leather Bags
   Type: accessories
   Why go: These bags often feature intricate embossed Incan patterns.
   Best for: Practical use and long-lasting durability.
   Where: Leather specialist stalls in the middle section.
   Time: 20 minutes.
   Cost: 60 to 200 Soles.
   Getting there: Centrally located in the market grid.
   Tip: Check the stitching quality before you finalize payment.
7. Name: Traditional Peruvian Chullo Hats
   Type: clothing
   Why go: These iconic knitted hats have distinctive ear flaps.
   Best for: Kids and fun photos at Machu Picchu.
   Where: Almost every clothing stall in the market.
   Time: 5 minutes.
   Cost: 10 to 25 Soles.
   Getting there: Widely available throughout the entire market.
   Tip: Try different sizes as knitting tension varies.
8. Name: Painted Gourd Ornaments
   Type: art
   Why go: Known as Mates Burilados, these tell stories of village life.
   Best for: Lightweight souvenirs that are easy to pack.
   Where: Small craft stalls near the river side.
   Time: 15 minutes.
   Cost: 15 to 50 Soles.
   Getting there: Exit the market toward the Alcamayo river.
   Tip: Look for complex carvings with very fine details.

Best Exploring Near the Shopping Area

Shopping is just one part of your visit to this town. After visiting the top travel attractions in town, explore the nature outside. The landscape around the village is lush and green. You can find many quiet spots away from the crowds. Many visitors spend a full night here to enjoy these sites. This allows you to visit the ruins early in the morning. Check out these other great attractions near Aguas Calientes during your stay.

9. Name: Machu Picchu Site Museum
   Type: museum
   Why go: Learn about the history before you see the ruins.
   Best for: History buffs and students.
   Where: Near the base of the Puente Ruinas bridge.
   Time: 1 to 2 hours.
   Cost: 22 Soles (approximate).
   Getting there: Walk 20 minutes from the market area.
   Tip: Visit the Machu Picchu site museum for detailed botanical gardens.
10. Name: Aguas Calientes Hot Springs
    Type: experience
    Why go: Soak in natural thermal baths after a long hike.
    Best for: Relaxation and muscle recovery.
    Where: At the upper end of the town.
    Time: 2 hours.
    Cost: 20 Soles.
    Getting there: Walk 10 minutes up the main hill.
    Tip: Visit the Aguas Calientes hot springs in the evening.
11. Name: Mandor Waterfalls and Gardens
    Type: nature
    Why go: See orchids, birds, and a beautiful hidden waterfall.
    Best for: Hikers and nature photographers.
    Where: Along the train tracks toward Santa Teresa.
    Time: 3 to 4 hours.
    Cost: 10 to 20 Soles entrance.
    Getting there: Walk 45 minutes from the market.
    Tip: Read our Mandor waterfalls guide for directions.
12. Name: Putucusi Mountain
    Type: hiking
    Why go: Get a vertical view of the Machu Picchu citadel.
    Best for: Adventurous hikers with no fear of heights.
    Where: Trailhead near the train tracks.
    Time: 3 hours round trip.
    Cost: Free.
    Getting there: Short walk from the market center.
    Tip: Check the Putucusi mountain guide for ladder safety tips.

Practical Tips for Navigating the Market

Shopping in Peru often involves friendly bargaining. Do not accept the first price you are given. Start by offering a slightly lower amount. Most sellers expect this and will meet you halfway. Always remain polite and smile during the process. It is a social interaction for many locals. If you buy several items, ask for a discount. This is a common practice at the Aguas Calientes artisan market. Most vendors prefer payment in the local Soles currency.

The market is busiest when trains arrive or depart. For a quieter experience, shop during the mid-morning hours. Many tourists are at the citadel during this time. You will have more space to browse the stalls. Most vendors open by 8:00 AM and close late. For travel, use PeruRail or Inca Rail services to reach the town. Ensure you have enough cash before you arrive. There are ATMs in town, but they can be unreliable. Keeping small bills will make your purchases much easier.