Machu Picchu Shopping and Districts

(Machu Picchu, Peru)

There is little in the way of shopping to be found around Machu Picchu itself. The closest selection of shops are located in the small and rather commercialised town of Aguas Calientes, which is often referred to as the Machu Picchu Pueblo, due to its proximity and close relationship with the ruins.

The market stalls of Aguas Calientes are particularly convenient and a good place to begin shopping for souvenirs of your trip to Mach Picchu. Stalls sell all kinds of Peruvian treasures, such as elaborately decorated wall hangings, alpaca woollen sweaters and blankets, ponchos, hand-painted T-shirts, an array of folk art and lots of chocolate - perfect sustenance for those planning to trek along the Inca Trail.

Where to Shop

Many visitors to Machu Picchu find themselves shopping for gifts at the various market stalls in Aguas Calientes. These tend to be concentrated alongside the Urubamba River and directly in front of the train station, where you will encounter literally rows and rows of market vendors selling their touristy wares.

All around the Sacred Valley are many appealing Andean towns and cities, each of which offers their very own shopping districts and possibilities, such as those around the ruins of both Chinchero and Ollantaytambo. However, prices tend to be much more favourable in Cusco, within easy reach of Machu Picchu, where the choice is also greatly improved. The famous market in Pisac also deserves a mention and is easy to reach by bus.