Things to buy in Mexico

Mexico is a popular travel destination for people in North America, thanks to its lush jungles, sandy beaches, cultural attractions, delicious food and beautiful, handcrafted souvenirs. Mexico has a wide range of regions that each offer something special, including artisan goods that you can bring home to remember your trip. Take a look at things to buy in Mexico, so you can enjoy some souvenir shopping on your vacation.

01

Maya chocolate

Maya chocolate is a unique type of chocolate that’s made from the seeds of cacao trees. They’re fermented, dried and roasted, then ground into a paste. The paste is mixed with water, chili peppers, cornmeal and other spices, giving the chocolate a distinctive flavour that’s different than what most people experience. You can buy chocolate drinks, blocks of chocolate and chocolate pieces to bring home, all of which are spiced using traditional Maya methods.

02

Mexican coffee

Mexico is one of the top producers of organic coffee in the world, so there’s no better way to bring back a taste of Mexico than with some authentic Mexican coffee. If you or someone back home loves coffee, you can find certified brands in Veracruz, Oaxaca and Chiapas, where coffee is typically harvested. You can also bring back coffee supplies, such as mugs and grinders.

03

Lucha Libre masks

Lucha Libre masks are part of Mexico’s native professional wrestling, which involves elaborate and vibrant costumes. Lucha Libre masks are lightweight and affordable, making them a great choice as a souvenir, and they come in all types of colours and styles. You can even find Lucha Libre masks that are modelled after specific animals, excellent for giving a personalized gift to a friend or family member back home.

04

Handmade Mexican hammock

Many street vendors sell hammocks that you can bring home with you, but if you want the real deal, it’s best to purchase hammocks from local Maya. Hammocks arose as a way for the Maya to create suspended beds, and they were originally constructed from the trees. Over time, the tree fiber has been replaced by softer materials, but the weaving method has stayed the same. Maya hammocks can be pricey, but it’s well worth the investment for a well-made and unique souvenir.

05

Day of the Dead mementos

Dia de Los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, is an important religious holiday in Mexico. The celebration focuses on friends and family remembering loved ones who have passed. During your trip, you can find figurines like colourful skulls, papel picado (traditional craft paper), marigolds, mariachi figures (often of musicians) and other traditional elements of the holiday. Though Day of the Dead souvenirs are a common option, they’re a great way to remember your trip and honour your loved ones.

06

Huaraches

Huaraches are a type of Mexican sandal made of hand-woven braided leather straps. They were popular in the local farming communities, but now they’re widespread throughout the country. You can find traditional huaraches made from leather or string, as well as modern options that have rubber soles or more elaborate designs made of leather and synthetic materials for a bohemian souvenir.

07

Taxco silver jewelry

Taxco silver comes from the town in central Mexico where silver is mined. Silver jewelry is popular all over the country, however, and you can find pure silver pieces or pieces made of silver and semi-precious stones, such as malachite, onyx and turquoise. Taxco silver jewelry is not only a souvenir that will stand the test of time, but it’s also available in all types of styles and designs for a personal touch.

08

Mexican folk art

Mexican folk art is typically crafted by a person from an indigenous group. Types of Mexican folk art include textiles and woven rugs from Oaxaca, alebrijes (colourful sculptures), leather goods, Huichol beaded goods from Jalisco, pottery from Puebla and Jalisco, hand-blown glass from Tlaquepaque and the Tree of Life from the State of Mexico. You could also find paper crafts just about anywhere in Mexico. When you bring home folk art, you’re bringing home a touch of the local culture.

09

Sombrero

Few things are as iconic to Mexican culture as the sombrero. The hat has a wide brim and is designed to shield the face from the powerful sun in Mexico and features a pointed crown and a strap to hold it in place on the chin. Mariachi musicians and horsemen typically wear sombreros. You can find sombreros throughout Mexico, and they range from simple and practical styles to the more ornate and decorative designs that are more commonly seen among mariachi performers.

10

Musical instruments

Mexican music is lively and passionate. If you want to bring a touch of Mexican music home with you, you can find a range of musical instruments in shopping areas throughout Mexico. Plenty of traditional options are available, from the guitar to the vihuela to the harp. If you want a smaller souvenir, you can buy some maracas, a staple of most Mexican music.

Mexico’s vibrant culture is something you want to remember, and with these souvenirs, you can bring a touch of Mexico home with you. When it comes time to plan your trip, prepare for the time of your life.