Shopping Guide in Lima

Shopping in Lima

What to Buy

• Alpaca Products: Sweaters, scarves, blankets, and clothing made from soft alpaca wool - warmer and softer than sheep's wool
• Silver Jewelry: Peru is a major silver producer; find beautiful handcrafted jewelry at excellent prices
• Textiles: Colorful woven textiles, blankets, and tapestries featuring traditional Andean patterns
• Ceramics & Pottery: Replicas of pre-Columbian designs or contemporary Peruvian pottery
• Pisco: Peru's national spirit - perfect for cocktails or as a gift
• Coffee & Chocolate: High-quality Peruvian coffee and cacao products
• Retablos: Traditional folk art boxes with three-dimensional scenes

Shopping Areas

Larcomar Shopping Center (Miraflores): Three-level mall built into the cliffside with stunning Pacific Ocean views. Features international brands, restaurants, movie theater, and is open 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM. Perfect for combining shopping with sunset views.

Avenida Larco (Miraflores): Main shopping and entertainment avenue connecting Parque Kennedy to the cliffs. Lined with shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.

Indian Market (Mercado Indio - Miraflores): Excellent for handcrafts, textiles, alpaca products, and souvenirs. Located near Avenida Petit Thouars. Bargaining expected.

Mercado de Surquillo: Vibrant local market for fresh produce, traditional Peruvian ingredients, and authentic food experiences. Some stalls sell crafts.

Mercado 28: Trendy food hall featuring gourmet takes on Peruvian street food.

Mundo Alpaca: Shop and educational museum showing the alpaca wool process from shearing to finished products.

Bargaining Tips

• Bargaining is expected and accepted at markets and with street vendors
• Fixed prices in malls and established shops - no bargaining
• Start by offering 50-60% of the asking price
• Be polite and friendly - aggressive bargaining is frowned upon
• If vendor won't budge, walking away often brings them down
• Buy multiple items from same vendor for better overall price
• Cash is king - carrying exact change helps negotiations