Buying Alpaca in Peru

Aug 1^st is National Alpaca Day in Peru. In honor of this, and of the fact that alpaca wool is a more ecologically sustainable choice than cashmere, we’re focusing on purchasing alpaca in Peru.

Alpaca sweaters and scarves are one of the most common purchases during visits to Peru, as they can be used during the trip (Andean nights are chilly), are highly associated with the Andean region, and are more affordable at the source than abroad. Unfortunately, the majority of these knits are actually made from a mix of lamb’s wool with alpaca. One can tell because it simply isn’t as soft- wool has to be treated with lanolin, which makes it somewhat itchy to most people.

True alpaca isn’t itchy, and if it’s made from the finest hairs it will be marked as “baby alpaca” and is supremely soft. It’s as insulating as cashmere, and more lasting because alpaca fibers are longer, reducing pilling. This also gives true alpaca knitwear a greater sheen than cashmere. “Baby alpaca” knitwear is prized by many. For some wares, however, “baby alpaca” may not be the best choice. Normal alpaca is more durable and insulating, making it perfect for blankets and throws.

The best way to get a feel for quality alpaca is to visit some of the most expensive alpaca knits stores, such as Kuna, and run a hand over the merchandise to get a feel for it. Later on, if an aggressive market seller earnestly tells you that their ware is “baby alpaca”, you’ll be able to tell. The handcraft markets that you’ll find throughout Cusco and the Sacred Valley, and in Miraflores in Lima, generally sell pieces that have less than 60% alpaca but are marked as 100%.

 

Frankly, if you’re paying S/. 50.00 Peruvian soles for a sweater, it’s a mix at best and a fake at worst. How much will the real, 100% deal cost you? A well-finished sweater will start from US$70, and if it has fine hand-finished touches, the cost will be higher. Gloves, scarves, and stoles can be had for a less. It will vary based on the look you’re going for, however.

 

Those who are interested in learning about traditional Andean techniques for creating natural dyes using plants and insects, weaving techniques, and ancient designs can do so by joining a tour of the weavers of Chincheros in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Or, if you just want to make sure that a piece you purchase incorporates these elements, visit one of the weavers’ coops locations that can be found in the Chincheros, Ollantaytambo, and Cusco. As a bonus, you’ll usually find a weaver or two inside the store demonstrating their craft.

For many travelers, the ubiquitous not-really-alpaca sweater with fringe and llamas on it is the perfect souvenir, as it’s become an iconic “Cusco look” for travelers. If you don’t feel like investing in a 100% alpaca piece, that’s perfectly fine. If you plan on buying yourself alpaca knitwear at any time, however, do it in Peru if you have the choice and pocket a little savings from the reduced overhead.

When evaluating a piece, remember:

• Expose the piece to the light- you’re looking for a uniform color. Tiny red, blue, and green flecks or sparkles indicate that synthetic fibers were combined to achieve a certain color. The more sparkles, the more synthetic wool was included.
• Even in the sunshine, alpaca feels colder on the surface than other knits. Run the back of your hand over the piece to test this. If the surface feels as warm to the touch as your favorite lamb’s wool sweater, it isn’t alpaca.
• Some find the surface texture to have a soapy feel.