18 Artisan Villages in the Peruvian Highlands for Local Craft Shopping
Nestled high in the Peruvian Andes, there are countless villages where age-old traditions are woven into the fabric of daily life. From vibrant textiles to intricate pottery, these highland communities are home to artisans who carry on centuries-old techniques passed down through generations.
Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs or seeking to immerse yourself in local culture, these 18 artisan villages in the Peruvian Highlands offer an unforgettable shopping experience for the discerning traveler.
Chinchero

Chinchero, often called the “Land of the Rainbow,” is known for its breathtaking textile art. The village’s artisans weave intricate patterns inspired by Andean symbols and traditions, creating colorful clothing, rugs, and tapestries.
Visitors can watch these traditional weaving techniques firsthand, and purchase handmade garments directly from local artisans.
Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo is not only famous for its Inca ruins, but also for its bustling craft markets. In this village, artisans create stunning pottery, textiles, and jewelry. The town’s laid-back atmosphere and connection to ancient traditions make it a perfect place to pick up handcrafted goods and engage with skilled craftsmen.
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Pisac

Pisac is a vibrant town in the Sacred Valley known for its artisan markets. Visitors can browse an array of handmade goods, including colorful woven tapestries, handcrafted jewelry, and intricate wooden carvings.
The markets are a great place to interact with local artisans and buy items that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Calca

Located in the Sacred Valley, Calca is known for its traditional textiles, hand-woven with ancient techniques. The village is home to skilled artisans who create beautiful shawls, blankets, and garments.
A visit to Calca provides an authentic opportunity to experience rural Peruvian life and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces directly from the creators.
Sicuani

Sicuani, a quiet village in the southern highlands, is famous for its pottery. Locals craft intricate ceramic pieces, including bowls, vases, and figurines, all of which feature traditional designs and motifs.
This lesser-known artisan village offers visitors a chance to explore a unique craft scene and purchase high-quality, handmade pottery.
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Yucay

Yucay is a charming village in the Sacred Valley with a rich history in traditional crafts. The local artisans are known for their fine hand-woven textiles, especially the vibrant woolen scarves and shawls.
Yucay is a great stop for those looking to purchase high-quality, authentic handicrafts while exploring the beauty of the valley.
Maras

Maras, a picturesque village perched on the Andean highlands, is known for its salt pans and skilled artisans. Local craftspeople produce pottery, woolen textiles, and hand-carved wooden items.
Maras is also famous for its natural beauty, making it an ideal place to combine artisan shopping with exploration of the surrounding landscapes.
Huilloc

Huilloc is a small, remote village in the Peruvian highlands, where the indigenous community is known for its vibrant textiles and handcrafted garments. The intricate weaving techniques used by the women of Huilloc have been passed down for generations, and the colorful items they produce are highly prized by collectors and visitors alike.
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Tinca

Tinca, a small village located near the Vilcanota River, is known for its traditional Andean crafts, particularly hand-woven textiles. The local artisans create beautiful pieces using natural dyes and weaving methods that date back to pre-Columbian times.
Tinca’s remote location makes it a great destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path artisan experience.
Huancarani

The village of Huancarani is renowned for its weaving traditions, particularly its high-quality woolen textiles. Local artisans weave intricate patterns into colorful shawls, blankets, and ponchos.
Visiting Huancarani offers a chance to witness traditional weaving techniques and purchase handmade goods directly from the artisans.
Písac

Písac, a town in the Sacred Valley, is known for its bustling market where artisans sell their handmade goods. From woven textiles and pottery to leatherwork and jewelry, the village offers a variety of crafts.
Písac is a perfect place to pick up souvenirs while also supporting local artisans who continue the region’s rich cultural traditions.
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Andahuaylillas

Andahuaylillas, often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes,” is not only home to a beautiful church but also to a thriving artisan community. Here, local craftspeople create hand-painted pottery, textiles, and paintings that reflect the deep cultural roots of the region.
The village provides an excellent opportunity to shop for authentic handmade goods while exploring its colonial-era charm.
Patabamba

Patabamba, a small village located near Cusco, is home to skilled weavers who craft beautiful textiles, including blankets, ponchos, and scarves. The villagers still use traditional weaving techniques and natural dyes to produce high-quality items.
A visit to Patabamba allows you to buy handmade crafts directly from artisans in a tranquil and authentic setting.
Lares

Known for its hot springs and stunning views, Lares is also home to a vibrant artisan community. The village’s weavers create finely crafted textiles, including woolen blankets, scarves, and ponchos.
Lares offers visitors a chance to explore the surrounding mountains while shopping for locally made, one-of-a-kind artisanal goods.
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Chahuaytiri

Chahuaytiri is a quiet village that boasts excellent hand-woven textiles made by the locals using traditional Andean methods. The women of Chahuaytiri are skilled artisans who create colorful tapestries and intricate clothing.
Shopping for these unique items allows visitors to take home a piece of the village’s cultural heritage.
Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo is not just a major archaeological site but also a fantastic place for artisan shopping. The local market offers a range of beautifully crafted goods, from intricately designed pottery and jewelry to handwoven textiles.
The town’s vibrant craft scene is a reflection of its rich cultural heritage, with artisans preserving traditions passed down through generations.
Kachiqhata

Kachiqhata, a remote village near Machu Picchu, is known for its stunningly intricate handcrafts. Local artisans produce a variety of products, from alpaca wool garments to pottery.
Kachiqhata’s remote location ensures that its artisan products are deeply connected to traditional Andean cultures, making them highly sought after by travelers.
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Soraypampa

Soraypampa, perched at high altitudes in the Andes, is known for its rural charm and artisanal pottery. Local artisans create beautiful handmade pottery and ceramics, all of which reflect the region’s deep cultural traditions.
Visitors to Soraypampa can shop for unique pieces while enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
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