Traditional craftsmanship
Don't leave Patagonia without finding a handcrafted souvenir: between cultural heritages and unique pieces, these are often objects that tell stories and will allow you to understand even more the essence of Patagonia. And then, in these times, what better way to support the local economy? Beware of manufactured products "Made In China" and prefer the markets of the small villages as well as the small stores of craftsmen. From knitted caps made of Chiloé sheep wool to Güemes' ponchos made of alpaca wool, not to mention cowhide belts, there's no doubt that you'll look great by adopting the traditional clothing of the Deep South! Ideal to face the cold, ponchos and other chamantos combine folklore and fashion, we find all colors, from the most kitsch to the most refined, the patterns vary as well as the cuts and materials. You can also be tempted by embroidered scarves, multicolored shoes with an ethnic style, sheep's wool slippers or soft sweaters definitely Andean. For the less fashionistas, you can also find handicrafts such as leather wallets and bags, ceramics and wood carvings
But for a unique and authentic handicraft object, you will have to take a closer look at the Mapuche handicraft, mainly present in the region of Temuco in Araucania. Decorative enthusiasts and other collectors of travel objects will inevitably fall in love with their creations, the result of countless techniques passed down orally through several generations. They work with silver, wood, leather, wool or ceramics and excel in the manufacture of pottery (plates, jugs, pots...), jewelry, clothing and decorative objects of all kinds. If you are in a satirical mood, you will surely be seduced by the famous "Indio picaro" (the smart Indian), a popular wood carving found in Mapuche territory. This figurine represents a Mapuche man who, once his body is lifted up, reveals a male attribute that is, to say the least, considerable. The less joking and more refined spirits will turn to the sublime telares, these ancestral weavings made from fabrics, wools and driftwood that are often found as wall decorations: real little works of art!
patagonian flavors
You swear by French cuisine? And yet, it's impossible not to be tempted by the flavors of Patagonia! I might as well say it right away: the bon vivants who love the pleasures of the table will never stop salivating. So why not keep some aside and bring back a few products in your suitcases to continue the culinary adventure once back home? Although it is not suitable for all palates, mate has convinced a good number of travelers who trade their tea for a calabash and a bombilla (metal mate straw). A symbol of conviviality, mate is enjoyed and shared with others. You will find mate absolutely everywhere, even in supermarkets: it is no less good than elsewhere and just as tasty. If you like more noble products like wine, then you will not escape the great Chilean and Argentinean wines: pinot noir, malbec, merlot or chardonnay, you will be amazed by the aromas of the wines of the Deep South: in addition to being delicious, the wine is not excessively expensive. As for sweet treats, don't forget to bring back some dulce de leche (in Argentina) or manjar (in Chile). This culinary specialty, a kind of milk jam, is not likely to gather dust in the cupboard and goes well with pancakes as well as toast. The unavoidable chocolate of Bariloche will seduce you as well as the alfajores, pastries that are often used as a dessert. Carnivores will also be able to purchase supplies to continue enjoying the tenderness of the Patagonian meat once they get home. However, there is one condition that must be respected: make sure you buy your meat vacuum-packed and respect the cold chain. Finally, several delicatessens prepare special packs that are easy to slip into your suitcase: trio of trout, wild boar and roe deer pâtés, southern spices ( merkén is a must to integrate into your cooking!), honey, calafate berry jam, rose hip tea... to be enjoyed without moderation!
On the road...
Long-distance travelers and other budding explorers can take advantage of smaller, but just as significant, objects: road maps are true testimonies of the routes taken. Available at gas stations, supermarkets and hiking equipment stores, they allow you to see the extent of your travels and to remember every step of your trip. Once you get home, you can frame it or keep it in a travel journal. From Santiago to Ushuaïa, passing by Pucón and El Chaltén, there are maps of all styles and different scales: some exist by region (Tierra del Fuego, Aysén...), others represent only Chile or Argentina, others still give a global view of Patagonia... it's up to you to choose the one that will best reflect your journey. To mark the different stages of the road, more and more travelers buy stickers: sold along the most mythical roads (Ruta 7, Ruta 40...), they are the kind of small souvenirs that cyclists and other bikers particularly like. Finally, to immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Patagonia while romanticizing your road-trip, dive into stories that will allow you to learn more about the richness and culture of the region. We recommend the book Last News from the South by Chilean author Luis Sepulveda, an account of his trip to Patagonia in the 1990s, and In Patagonia, by British traveler Bruce Chatwin, which will give you a last escape into the history and geography of the Deep South.
