Alpaca’s Best

Alpaca could well be the symbol of Peru; this cute animal is everywhere in the country. It is also known for producing ultra silky fur that is made into warm sweaters and ponchos. But I can guarantee you this—after a week or two of travelling in Peru and spotting fake alpaca clothing in every single market you will begin to feel jaded. A lot of vendors will try to lure you into buying fakes. The cries of ‘may-be Alpaca’ meant to sound like ‘baby Alpaca’ are the basis for the most famous tourist scam in Peru. Occasionally, you might spot the real deal, but more often than not it is regular wool processed to resemble Alpaca fur.
If you want to invest in real Alpaca woollens on your trip to Peru, I suggest picking a reputed trader. Do your research well and read reviews before you buy them for yourself. We thought we would make life easier for you by telling you our favourite place to pick up clothes made from Alpaca wool. If there’s one shop you can trust with your eyes closed, it is Alpaca’s Best. It is Peru’s oldest and largest shop dealing in Alpaca wool garments. They have four branches in Cusco but we like the variety at the one in Plazoleta Nazarenas best. Predictably, their garments are on the pricier side, but feel smooth to touch and comfortable to wear. Highly recommended.