Gift ideas Capitales

This huge shed was transformed into a Guatemalan souvenir store in the 1990s. From textiles to pottery, everything is handmade and comes from the different departments of Guatemala, from Sacatepéquez to Izabal, passing through Huehuetenango and Quiché. There are typical pieces, such as the colorful pants characteristic of Todos Santos Cuchumatán and the huipils with designs from different communities, but also products designed for tourists, such as bags and t-shirts with a "traditional" fabric band or hammocks.

This establishment created in 1964 looks more like a museum than a store. The objects appear to be on display, with entire rooms dedicated to certain collections. This is the case for the wooden masks used during the traditional dances, a kind of one-hour show similar to theater, mixing music and dialogues. The attentive staff guides the visitor through the musical instruments, fabrics, jewels and statues, while providing fascinating anecdotes about Guatemalan crafts, especially weaving. Not to be missed.

A warm welcome in a large boutique where almost all the pieces are handmade: when it is the case, they are made from sustainable and eco-responsible materials only. The presentation is neat and highlights in particular the sweaters decorated with some patterns reminiscent of those of the huipils. Beautiful products, from bags to cushions, jewelry, wooden toys, pillowcases, candles, dishes, ceramics and kitchen utensils such as cutting boards. Excellent address.

This pretty store presents its handmade fabrics "in situation". For example, there are beautiful wooden tables with tablecloths and a bed with a beautiful set of cushions with fine covers. From small purses to pillowcases to scarves, the textiles are superb. Behind these works: more than 500 Mayan women, originating from about twenty local communities, notably in the vicinity of Huehuetenango and Cobán. On the wall, a well-done map explains the history of the huipils according to the area of the country.

Located 10 minutes west of Parque Central, the market is made up of a long succession of stalls. Earrings, jade bracelets and necklaces, fabrics, clothes, belts, shoes, bags, hats, hammocks, pillowcases, small wooden masks, sculptures, magnets, key rings... You can find all kinds of souvenirs, more or less authentic. Between the maze of stores, pretty patios, each with a fountain and stone benches, invite you to take a break between two purchases. Possibility to get some strength at the Casa del Café.

In addition to its nursery and restaurant, the establishment has a boutique full of natural, organic, gluten-free and artisanal products. It offers pottery, candles, books, glasses, jasmine, ginger, dried fruits, goji berries, essential oils, omega-3, jewelry, wooden kitchen utensils, cosmetics... A good way to prolong one's presence in this oasis - or to discover it.

With its clean style, this pretty boutique opened in 2012 displays only a few pieces, in the manner of a Parisian concept store . Fine jewelry in gold, silver or jade rubs shoulders with cushions, glass objects and a little bit of tableware. There are also products from guest brands, often renewed. During our visit, it was a collection of silk scarves, linen shirts and beautiful vintage boots. The plus: the brightness of the space, organized around a patio with a fountain, in a colonial house. A favorite!