What to Buy in Colombia: A Comprehensive Shopping Guide

Are you planning your first trip or a return visit? Knowing what to buy in Colombia can make your journey even more memorable. From the colorful streets of Cartagena to the bustling neighborhoods of Medellín, Colombia offers an array of souvenirs and gifts that reflect its vibrant culture, rich history, and artisanal craftsmanship.

This guide will help you discover what to buy from Colombia, including local crafts, iconic clothing, delicious coffee, and unique keepsakes. And if you want help finding the best souvenirs and gifts in Colombia? Let Two Travel create a personalized shopping itinerary for you, whether in Medellín, Cartagena, or beyond.

11 Best Souvenirs and Gifts to Buy in Colombia

Whether you’re visiting Cartagena, Medellín, or other parts of Colombia in South America, the following 11 souvenirs capture the heart of the country.

1. It’s Colombia, not Columbia

One of the quirkiest and most humorous souvenirs from Colombia plays on a very common mistake: people often spell the country’s name incorrectly, writing “Columbia” instead of Colombia. Locals have embraced this error, turning it into a lighthearted and widely popular keepsake that celebrates national pride while making visitors smile.

The “It’s Colombia, Not Columbia” slogan can be found throughout the country, from the beaches of Santa Marta and Cartagena to the coffee region and Medellín. Its playful message appears on a variety of items, including t-shirts, hoodies, coffee mugs, tote bags, caps, fridge magnets, and more.

Prices for small items like magnets start around $5, while larger or more intricate merchandise can cost more. Tourists especially enjoy buying these souvenirs because they’re witty, memorable, and practical.

This souvenir serves as both a fun reminder of your visit and a conversation starter at home. It highlights the charm and humor of Colombians while giving travelers a tangible piece of the country’s personality. After picking up one of these keepsakes, you’ll never forget how to spell Colombia again, making it a clever and meaningful memento from your trip.

Pick up your fun souvenirs with Two Travel’s expert guidance. We’ll show you the best markets and artisan shops in Cartagena and Medellín.

2. Soccer (Futbol) Jersey 

Soccer, or fútbol as it is known in Colombia, is more than just a sport. It’s a national passion that unites people across the country. Whether you’re a soccer fan yourself or looking for a meaningful gift for someone back home, a Colombian soccer jersey makes a perfect souvenir.

These jerseys represent Colombia’s vibrant sports culture and come in a variety of designs, including the national team’s iconic yellow, blue, and red kit. You can also find jerseys from a selection of popular Colombian clubs, such as Millonarios, Atlético Nacional, and Independiente Santa Fe, which reflect the country’s local football pride.

Authentic jerseys are available in virtually every major city, from Bogotá and Medellín to Cartagena, at shopping malls, outdoor markets, and specialty sports stores. Many jerseys are officially licensed, ensuring high quality and accurate representation of team colors and logos. Prices vary depending on the team, style, and whether the jersey is an authentic or replica version, with official national team jerseys typically ranging from $50 to $100.

Bringing home a Colombian soccer jersey is more than just a piece of clothing. It’s a tangible connection to the country’s culture and national pride. Whether worn at home or displayed as a collectible, it serves as a reminder of Colombia’s love for fútbol and its energetic, passionate sports culture.

Let Two Travel help you find authentic jerseys, so you can bring home a piece of Colombia’s passionate soccer culture.

3. Getsemaní Art from Cartagena

When deciding what to buy in Cartagena, few souvenirs feel as meaningful as artwork from Getsemaní, one of the city’s most expressive and historically rich neighborhoods. Getsemaní is the heart of Cartagena’s Afro-Caribbean identity, a place where history, resistance, and creativity come together through music, color, and visual art. Originally settled by enslaved Africans during the colonial era, the neighborhood played a key role in Cartagena’s fight for independence and later evolved into a working-class district closely tied to port life and trade.

Today, Getsemaní is internationally recognized for its vibrant street art, which tells stories of Afro-Colombian heritage, social change, and local pride. Murals cover walls, doors, and plazas, transforming the neighborhood into an open-air gallery. Many of the artists who paint these large public works also sell smaller canvases, prints, and mixed-media pieces inspired by their murals, making them ideal souvenirs or gifts to take home from Colombia. Prices vary widely, but even travelers on a budget can find authentic pieces starting around ten to fifteen dollars, while larger works command higher prices depending on size and detail.

Buying art in Getsemaní is more than shopping; it is a direct way to support local artists and preserve a living cultural movement. Each piece reflects the neighborhood’s resilience and creative spirit, offering a deeply personal reminder of Cartagena’s Afro-Caribbean roots and its ever-evolving cultural identity.

Discover Getsemaní’s street art and support local artists with a guided tour from Two Travel experts.

4. Wayuu Mochila Bags

Wayuu mochila bags are among the most iconic items to buy in Colombia and one of the most meaningful Colombian souvenirs. These handwoven bags are crafted by the Wayuu Indigenous people, who live primarily in the La Guajira region of northern Colombia near the Caribbean coast.

Each mochila is crocheted by hand using traditional techniques passed down through generations, resulting in distinctive cylindrical shapes, intricate geometric patterns, thick woven straps, and decorative tassels. Every design tells a story and reflects the weaver’s creativity, family traditions, and cultural identity.

Mochila bags vary in price based on the weaving technique and the time invested. Single-thread mochilas feature finer, more detailed patterns and can take several weeks, sometimes up to two months, to complete. Double-thread mochilas have bolder designs and are generally finished more quickly, making them slightly more affordable while remaining authentically handmade.

Modern mochilas are often made with durable acrylic threads, which makes them easier to maintain while preserving their traditional look.

These bags come in both vibrant color combinations and more neutral, earthy tones, making them suitable for everyday use or travel. While mochilas are sold across Colombia, the highest-quality pieces are typically found in northern regions such as Cartagena, Santa Marta, and La Guajira.

Purchasing an authentic Wayuu mochila directly supports Indigenous artisans, many of whom are women, and helps sustain their cultural heritage and local economies.

Two Travel can connect you directly with skilled Wayuu artisans for authentic, handcrafted mochila bags

5. Colombian Coffee

Colombian coffee is one of the most celebrated products to buy in Colombia and a top choice for travelers looking to bring home an authentic taste of the country. Grown primarily in Colombia’s Andean regions, coffee thrives here thanks to high altitudes, volcanic-rich soils, regular rainfall, and mild temperatures.

Most Colombian coffee is made from 100% Arabica beans, prized for their smooth body, balanced acidity, and clean, slightly sweet flavor without excessive bitterness.

What truly sets Colombian coffee apart is the dedication of small-scale farmers who rely on traditional growing and processing methods refined over generations. Hand-picking ripe cherries and careful washing and drying processes ensure consistent quality. Many producers also follow sustainable, organic, or fair-trade practices, reflecting Colombia’s strong coffee culture and commitment to ethical farming.

When buying coffee in Colombia, look for packages marked with the seal of the Federación Nacional de Cafeteros, which guarantees origin and quality. Prices vary based on region, roast level, and production style, with standard bags often starting around $10 and specialty or single-origin coffees costing more.

While the Coffee Triangle around Manizales, Salento, and Pereira is famous worldwide, excellent coffee is produced across the country. Travelers can enjoy coffee farm tours near Medellín, sample beans at local cafés, and even bring home freshly roasted coffee directly from the source.

Book a coffee tasting or farm visit with Two Travel to bring home the finest Colombian beans

6. Sombrero Vueltiao Black and White Hat

The sombrero vueltiao is one of Colombia’s most iconic cultural symbols and a meaningful souvenir to bring home. This traditional black-and-white hat originates from northern Colombia and was created by the Zenú Indigenous communities of the Caribbean lowlands. It is handwoven from caña flecha, a native plant whose fibers are carefully harvested, dried, and dyed using natural methods, including black pigments traditionally derived from plant extracts and mud.

Each sombrero vueltiao is woven entirely by hand, and the production time varies depending on the fineness of the weave. Simpler designs may take a few days to complete, while higher-quality hats with tighter, more intricate patterns can take several weeks. One of the hat’s defining features is its flexibility and durability. It can be folded or rolled without losing its shape.

Authentic sombrero vueltiaos are lightweight, breathable, and long-lasting. Prices typically range from $25 to $90, depending on craftsmanship and weave density. When buying one, choose handmade versions over plastic imitations to ensure quality and to support traditional Colombian artisans.

Let Two Travel guide you to the best authentic sombrero vueltiao vendors and artisan workshops.

7. Chiva Bus Figurines

Chiva bus figurines are among the most recognizable and popular souvenirs you can buy in Colombia. The real Chiva, also known as a bus escalera, is a brightly painted, open-sided wooden bus traditionally used in rural areas to navigate steep mountain roads and connect remote towns. These buses are especially common in regions such as Antioquia and the Coffee Triangle, where they remain an important part of everyday life and local identity.

As a symbol of Colombian culture, the Chiva bus has been transformed into countless souvenir forms, including hand-painted clay figurines, magnets, ornaments, postcards, and artwork. Authentic pieces typically feature vivid colors inspired by the Colombian flag, yellow, blue, and red, along with decorative patterns and luggage stacked on the roof, reflecting how the buses are used in real life.

Chiva bus magnets and small figurines are especially popular because they are lightweight, affordable, and easy to transport, making them ideal gifts. You can find them throughout the country, from artisan markets in Cartagena to souvenir shops in Bogotá and Medellín. For the best quality, look for handcrafted, hand-painted pieces made by local artisans rather than mass-produced plastic versions.

Find the perfect hand-painted Chiva bus souvenirs with help from Two Travel’s insider knowledge.

8. Colombian Emeralds

Colombian emeralds are among the country’s most prized and fascinating souvenirs, celebrated worldwide for their exceptional quality and vivid green color. Colombia is one of the top producers of emeralds globally, rivaling Zambia and Brazil, and its stones are widely considered the finest in terms of clarity, color, and brilliance.

The primary emerald-mining regions lie near Bogotá, making the city a central hub for dealers, markets, and certified gemstone shops. Cartagena, with its thriving tourism scene, also offers a wide range of emerald stores, particularly within the Walled City.

Emerald prices vary greatly depending on size, clarity, and color. Deep green stones with minimal inclusions are the most valuable, while stones with visible imperfections are less expensive, though all natural emeralds contain some inclusions. Souvenirs range from small, polished gems to raw stones still embedded in rock, as well as sculpted emerald pieces integrated into jewelry or decorative items.

When shopping for emeralds, examine the stone closely against the light to assess inclusions, confirm authenticity, and ensure the gem you purchase is exactly what you receive. Prices for smaller pieces start around $30, while high-quality, larger stones can reach hundreds or even thousands of dollars. With careful selection, a Colombian emerald makes a unique, lasting memento of your trip.

Two Travel ensures you shop safely for certified Colombian emeralds at trusted stores

9. Salt Figures from La Catedral de Sal

Just under an hour from Bogotá, visitors can experience one of Colombia’s most extraordinary attractions: La Catedral de Sal, or the Salt Cathedral. This remarkable underground cathedral is carved entirely from salt within an old mine, offering a surreal and unforgettable experience. The cathedral features intricate salt carvings of religious symbols, nature, and other decorative motifs that showcase the skill and artistry of the miners who created it.

While exploring the cathedral, visitors can purchase unique souvenirs at the on-site merchant stands. Among the most popular are miniature salt figures, which replicate the elaborate carvings found throughout the cathedral. These small figures can include turtles, crosses, angels, and other designs, each with delicate, detailed craftsmanship. Despite their intricacy, these keepsakes are surprisingly affordable, often costing less than $5.

Salt figures from La Catedral de Sal make for an exceptional souvenir because they are not only beautiful and unique, but they also have a tangible connection to one of Colombia’s most iconic landmarks.

Unlike mass-produced items, these figures are locally made and memorable, offering a lasting reminder of your visit to this one-of-a-kind underground wonder.

Combine your visit to the Salt Cathedral with Two Travel’s curated shopping experience for unique souvenirs.

10. Straw Marquetry

Straw marquetry, known in Spanish as enchapado de tamo, is one of Colombia’s most distinctive and lesser-known artisan traditions, making it a truly unique souvenir to bring home. This decorative craft dates back to the 16th century and is traditionally associated with the Andean regions of Colombia, particularly Nariño and Pasto, where the technique has been preserved for generations.

Artisans create these pieces by carefully applying thin fibers of wheat straw to wooden surfaces, forming intricate patterns and vibrant designs.

The process is highly meticulous. Wheat stalks are dyed using natural pigments, flattened, polished, and then individually placed by hand onto wooden objects such as trays, jewelry boxes, picture frames, and decorative plates. The result is a smooth, glossy surface with rich colors and geometric or floral motifs that catch the light beautifully.

Straw marquetry pieces are lightweight, durable, and visually striking, making them ideal souvenirs or gifts. In Cartagena, especially within the historic walled city, you can find high-quality examples in artisan boutiques and curated craft shops. Purchasing straw marquetry not only gives you a colorful reminder of your trip but also directly supports Colombian artisans who continue to preserve this centuries-old craft.

Explore artisan boutiques in Cartagena or Medellín with Two Travel to select authentic straw marquetry pieces.

11. Guayabera Shirts

A guayabera shirt is one of the best souvenirs to bring home from Colombia, especially for men. These lightweight shirts, typically made from linen or cotton, are perfect for warm climates, offering breathability and comfort. What makes the guayabera unique are its distinctive features: multiple pockets, often four, and two parallel rows of pleats stitched down the front, giving the shirt both style and functionality.

Guayaberas are versatile and timeless, making them ideal for beach outings, daytime adventures, or evening drinks. Their effortless Latin flair allows them to be dressed up or down, and they remain a practical wardrobe addition long after your trip. While guayaberas are available throughout Colombia, they are most commonly found in the Caribbean region, such as Cartagena, where the hot and humid climate has made them a local staple. Prices range widely, from around $10 for a market-quality shirt to significantly more for boutique or custom-made options.

Although the guayabera likely originated in Cuba or Mexico, it has become deeply integrated into Colombian culture. It is especially important for formal occasions in the country. For instance, at many Colombian weddings, a white guayabera is the traditional dress code for men, ensuring both comfort and elegance in tropical settings.

Two Travel will help you find stylish, high-quality guayaberas while exploring Colombia’s vibrant markets.

Where to Buy the Best Colombian Souvenirs?

Want a stress-free shopping adventure? Two Travel can craft a personalized tour of Colombia’s top boutiques, artisan markets, and shopping districts, so you’ll find the best souvenirs without missing a thing.

The Best Boutiques Around the Country: Local Design Gems

Boutique shopping in Colombia offers the chance to find unique items that are often handmade by local artisans. The boutiques in Colombia often have a story behind each product, connecting you directly to the country’s rich heritage.

In Bogotá, neighborhoods like La Candelaria and Usaquén are home to small shops selling Wayuu mochila bags, straw marquetry, hand-painted ceramics, and local jewelry, including Colombian emeralds.

Medellín’s El Poblado district has boutiques specializing in contemporary Colombian fashion, artisanal leather goods, and carrier bags from Jericó. Cartagena’s historic Walled City and Getsemaní neighborhoods are perfect for picking up vibrant street art, straw crafts, and locally designed textiles.

Best Malls for Shopping in Colombia

For a more modern shopping experience, Colombia’s major cities feature large malls that combine international brands with local products. These malls are ideal if you want convenience, air-conditioned comfort, and a variety of souvenirs in one location.

Bogotá’s Andino and Centro Comercial Santafé in Medellín offer a mix of high-end boutiques, artisan pop-ups, and specialty stores selling Colombian coffee, guayabera shirts, and soccer jerseys.

Shopping Gems in Colombia

Beyond boutiques and malls, markets and artisan fairs are some of the most rewarding places to shop. Shopping at these venues supports local communities and ensures that your souvenirs are authentic and sustainable.

Medellín’s Mercado del Río, Bogotá’s Usaquén Sunday Market, and Cartagena’s Las Bóvedas are excellent for discovering handmade jewelry, textiles, ceramics, and food products like panela, coffee, and chocolate.

Practical Tips for Smart, Stylish Shopping in Colombia

Shopping in Colombia can be a vibrant and rewarding experience, but a little planning ensures you get the most out of your time while finding high-quality and authentic items.

• Shop early: Weekends, especially Sundays, can become crowded in popular malls and markets. So arriving in the morning not only guarantees a quieter environment but also shorter lines at cafés and restaurants if you need a break.
• Dress with style and comfort when venturing out: Colombia is generally safe, but upscale malls and boutiques attract well-dressed shoppers. Smart-casual clothing paired with comfortable shoes will help you navigate long aisles, cobblestone streets, and artisan markets comfortably while blending in with the local crowd.
•  Ask about tax-free shopping: Many luxury stores offer tax-free shopping for international travelers. Always carry your passport and ask for the Factura electrónica con IVA, which can allow you to reclaim a portion of the sales tax at the airport upon departure.
• Know the payment options and currency: Payment options in Colombia vary depending on where you shop. Most large malls accept major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. However, it’s wise to carry some Colombian pesos for smaller vendors, artisan markets, or food stalls, where cash is preferred. ATMs are generally available in all major shopping centers if you need to withdraw cash.
• Know what you are buying: For high-value items like Colombian emeralds, Wayuu mochila bags, or handmade straw marquetry, ask vendors about the origin, process, and authenticity of the goods. In markets like Pasaje Rivas in Medellín or Usaquén in Bogotá, artisans are often eager to share the story behind their creations. For designer fashion or luxury items, shopping inside recognized malls like Bogotá’s Andino, El Retiro, or Medellín’s Santafé ensures authenticity and quality.

Let Two Travel handle all the details, from timing your visits to high-quality markets to helping with currency, shipping, and authentic souvenir selection.

FAQs About What to Buy in Colombia

What are the best souvenirs to buy in Cartagena, Colombia?

Cartagena offers a variety of souvenirs that reflect its Caribbean culture and colonial heritage. Popular items to buy in cartagena colombia include:

• Straw marquetry: Handcrafted decorative objects made from dyed wheat fibers.
• Wayuu mochila bags: Colorful, intricately woven bags made by the Wayuu Indigenous community.
• Chiva bus figurines and “It’s Colombia, Not Columbia” merchandise: Fun, lightweight keepsakes.
• Local art from Getsemaní: Small paintings and prints celebrating Afro-Caribbean culture.
• Sombrero Vueltiao hats: Traditional black-and-white handwoven hats.
• Colombian emeralds: Available in jewelry shops for luxury souvenirs.

What are the best souvenirs to buy in Medellín, Colombia?

Medellín’s souvenirs often reflect its Antioquian heritage, vibrant culture, and mountain-region lifestyle, offering travelers a range of meaningful gifts and keepsakes. Popular things to buy in Medellin Colombia include:

• Carriel bags: Traditional leather handbags with accordion-style compartments.
• Artisan coffee: Locally grown beans from nearby highlands or the Coffee Triangle.
• Handmade jewelry and textiles: Bracelets, necklaces, scarves, and decorative items.
• Colombian emeralds: Certified stones available in specialty shops.
• Chiva bus figurines and soccer jerseys: Affordable, playful, and culturally meaningful souvenirs.

Are Colombian souvenirs expensive?

Prices for Colombian souvenirs vary widely depending on the type of item and where you buy it. For instance, street markets and local shops typically offer better deals than airport stores.

Artisan goods, handmade bags, and locally crafted jewelry are often moderately priced but reflect the craftsmanship involved. Luxury items like Colombian emeralds can be expensive but are high-quality investments.

Where can I find authentic souvenirs in Colombia?

In Cartagena, look for boutiques and artisan shops in the Centro Histórico and Getsemaní, as well as markets near Bocagrande. In Medellín, the El Poblado neighborhood and artisan markets like Mercado de San Alejo are top spots. Bogotá also offers excellent options in La Candelaria and Usaquén.

Can I ship Colombian souvenirs internationally?

Most souvenirs can be shipped home, but fragile items like straw marquetry, Chiva bus figurines, or salted figures from the Salt Cathedral should be well packed. Liquor and certain food items may have shipping restrictions, so check customs regulations before shipping.

Still wondering what to buy in Colombia or where to find the most authentic items? Two Travel’s experts can plan a tailor-made shopping itinerary for you, covering Medellín, Cartagena, Bogotá, and beyond.

Plan Your Shopping Adventure with Two Travel Experts

Still wondering what to buy in Colombia or where to find the most authentic souvenirs? From Medellín’s artisan markets to Cartagena’s vibrant boutiques, Two Travel creates personalized shopping itineraries that make your journey seamless, stylish, and unforgettable. Our experts provide insider tips, connect you with local artisans, and ensure every souvenir, from Colombian coffee to Wayuu mochila bags, is authentic and meaningful.

Contact Two Travel today to start planning your ultimate souvenir adventure in Colombia!