From the emerald slopes of the Coffee Triangle to Cartagena’s sun-baked walls and the wind-swept deserts of La Guajira, Colombia feels alive in color, scent and rhythm.

Street vendors sell warm arepas and panela, ciclovía riders sweep through Bogotá’s wide avenues, and the air often carries the bright, earthy aroma of freshly roasted coffee—so it’s no surprise Colombian souvenirs are imbued with place and story.

Whether you want edible treats, woven treasures, or small, portable pieces of the country’s craft traditions, here’s what to buy in Colombia to bring a piece of its vibrant culture home with you.

1. Colombian Coffee

Why pick this up: Colombian coffee is world-famous for a reason—regions like Huila, Nariño and the Eje Cafetero (Quindío, Caldas, Risaralda) produce beans with bright acidity, caramel sweetness and floral notes. A bag of single-origin coffee captures a distinct mountain terroir.
What to look for: Look for roast dates, origin (Huila, Nariño, Tolima), and whether it’s single-origin or a micro-lot. Specialty roasters in Bogotá and Medellín will label altitude and processing (washed, honey).
Price bracket (2025): COP 15,000–COP 60,000 for 250–500 g, specialty micro-lots can be COP 80,000+.
Where to find it: Cafés and roasteries in Bogotá’s La Candelaria and Usaquén, Medellín’s El Poblado, Quindío farm shops and airports like El Dorado.

2. Emeralds (ethically sourced)

Why pick this up: Colombia produces the world’s most prized emeralds—known for deep green hues and clarity. A small emerald or set in silver is a show-stopping keepsake.
What to look for: Ask for origin (Muzo, Chivor, Coscuez), a certificate of authenticity, and whether the stone is treated. Prefer reputable shops in Bogotá or Medellín and licensed dealers.
Price bracket (2025): Certified small stones in silver settings from COP 200,000–COP 2,000,000; high-quality gems rise steeply from there.
Where to find it: Jewelry stores in Bogotá’s Zona T, Carrera 7, Medellín’s El Poblado, and authorized emerald dealers in Bogotá’s jewelry district.

3. Wayuu Mochila Bags

Why pick this up: Handwoven by Wayuu artisans in La Guajira, these vibrant shoulder bags are practical art—each pattern tells family or community stories.
What to look for: Tight, even stitches and complex patterns indicate experienced handwork. Ask where it was made; authentic Wayuu pieces come directly from La Guajira.
Price bracket (2025): COP 80,000–COP 450,000 depending on size and intricacy.
Where to find it: Markets in Riohacha, artisan stalls in Cartagena, and ethical boutiques in Bogotá and Medellín.

4. Sombrero Vueltiao

Why pick this up: The national hat of Colombia, woven from caña flecha, is light, durable and instantly recognizable—perfect for sun and style.
What to look for: A fine weave (more stripes means higher quality) and a comfortable fit. Traditional black-and-white patterns are classic; regional variations exist.
Price bracket (2025): COP 40,000–COP 350,000.
Where to find it: Artisan markets in Cartagena and Barranquilla, plaza vendors in Bogotá, and dedicated shops in the Caribbean coast towns.

5. Bean-to-Bar Colombian Chocolate

Why pick this pick up: Colombia’s cacao is gaining acclaim—bean-to-bar bars highlight floral, fruity or coffee-like notes unique to regions like Tumaco and Sierra Nevada.
What to look for: Single-origin labels, percentage cacao, and small-batch bean-to-bar makers. Avoid generic chocolate and favor artisan packaging.
Price bracket (2025): COP 8,000–COP 35,000 per bar.
Where to find it: Specialty chocolate shops in Bogotá, Medellín, and cafés in Cartagena; producers in the Pacific and Magdalena regions.

6. Aguardiente and Local Spirits

Why pick this up: Aguardiente (an anise-flavored spirit) and Colombian rums carry local flavor—perfect for gifting or sipping with friends back home.
What to look for: Regional labels like Aguardiente Antioqueño or small-batch rums from the Caribbean coast. Check customs regulations before flying with alcohol.
Price bracket (2025): COP 18,000–COP 60,000 per bottle.
Where to find it: Supermarkets, liquor stores and artisanal spirit shops in Bogotá, Medellín and Cartagena.

7. Ruanas and Wool Textiles

Why pick this up: From Boyacá and Tunja come warm, soft ruanas—traditional wool capes that are both cozy and stylish, with classic Andean patterns.
What to look for: Natural wool, hand-stitched edges and authentic patterns from Boyacense weavers. Heavier ruanas are better for cooler climates.
Price bracket (2025): COP 120,000–COP 600,000.
Where to find it: Artisan markets in Tunja and Paipa, Bogotá’s Plaza de Bolívar stalls, and craft shops in Villa de Leyva.

8. Tagua (Vegetable Ivory) Jewelry

Why pick this up: Tagua, a sustainable “vegetable ivory” from tropical palms, is carved into eco-friendly necklaces, earrings and buttons in vivid dyes.
What to look for: Smooth polish, natural grain visible under dye, and original designs by Chocó and Pacific coast artisans.
Price bracket (2025): COP 20,000–COP 180,000.
Where to find it: Artisan markets in Cartagena, Bogotá’s Usaquén market, and eco-boutiques along the Pacific.

9. Ráquira Ceramics

Why pick this up: Ráquira in Boyacá is Colombia’s pottery capital—bright, hand-painted plates, pitchers and decorative pieces that add instant Colombian character to your home.
What to look for: Hand-painted imperfections (a sign of authenticity), traditional motifs and durable glazing if the piece will be used for food.
Price bracket (2025): COP 15,000–COP 200,000 depending on size and complexity.
Where to find it: Workshops and stalls in Ráquira itself (a must-visit), Boyacá markets, and Bogotá craft fairs.

10. Bocadillo, Arequipe and Panela

Why pick this up: Sweet staples like bocadillo (guava paste), creamy arequipe (dulce de leche) and blocks of panela (unrefined cane sugar) are delicious, portable reminders of Colombia’s dessert culture.
What to look for: Sealed jars or vacuum-packed bocadillo for travel, traditional recipes from Antioquia and Santander, and artisanal labels for better flavor.
Price bracket (2025): COP 4,000–COP 25,000 per package.
Where to find it: Grocery markets, Antioquia and Santander sweet shops, and stalls at Bogotá’s Paloquemao market.

Pack a little of Colombia’s color, coffee and craft into your suitcase: these Colombian souvenirs make great gifts and are small ways to remember the music, markets and mountains long after you return home. ✈️

Let me know in the comments if you have any other top ‘what to buy’ ideas!

About the Author

Colin is the founder of SouvenirsIdeas.com and a passionate traveller with a soft spot for ceramics, markets, and food tours. He writes practical, first-hand guides to help you bring home souvenirs that actually mean something — not just more clutter!