29 Best Souvenirs in Cancun and Where to Buy Them

Looking for the best souvenirs in Cancun and wondering where to find them? I’ve got you covered.

Cancun is packed with places to shop, and you’ll notice right away that every corner has a stall selling something colorful with “Cancun” splashed across it. Those can be fun, but Mexico has a long tradition of handmade crafts, textiles, pottery, jewelry, and food products that make much more meaningful keepsakes.

If you’re not sure what to buy in Cancun or which items make the most authentic Cancun souvenirs, this guide will help.

Souvenir shopping can get overwhelming fast. You want something special, useful, or gift-worthy without spending hours hopping from shop to shop.

Luckily, Mexico’s artisan culture makes it easy to find high-quality items, so choosing the best souvenirs from Cancun or even the best souvenirs from Mexico in general becomes a lot more straightforward.

Below, you’ll find a list of the top things to buy in Cancun and tips on where to find them. These suggestions will help you shop smarter and pick souvenirs you’ll actually love bringing home.

Why Cancun Souvenirs Capture the Spirit of Mexico

Bringing home souvenirs from Cancun is more than just collecting trinkets—it’s about preserving memories and supporting local artisan communities. Each handcrafted piece tells a story of Mayan heritage, Mexican craftsmanship, and the vibrant coastal culture that makes Cancun unique.

Unlike mass-produced tourist items, authentic Mexican souvenirs from Cancun connect you to centuries of tradition. When you purchase from local markets like Mercado 28 or Ki-Huic, you’re directly supporting families who have passed down their craft through generations. These souvenirs become conversation starters, home decor pieces, and tangible reminders of your Caribbean adventure.

The best Cancun souvenirs blend cultural significance with practical use—whether it’s hand-painted margarita glasses for your next fiesta, authentic vanilla for baking, or embroidered huipiles you’ll wear for years. They capture the colors, flavors, and warmth that make Mexico unforgettable.

Best Souvenirs in Cancun: Experiences

1. Book a professional photoshoot

Booking a professional photoshoot is one of the best souvenirs in Cancun because it creates everlasting memories with professional photography to take home.

One of the most overlooked gifts to bring home from a Cancun vacation is a set of professional photos of your stay.

Hiring a professional photographer will take the stress out of taking pictures and finding the right spot, while allowing you to capture more professional images with the right light and composition.

Moreover, a local photographer would know the best places and the best times to take them.

It’s a souvenir that will never get lost and will last forever, and it’s my favorite one. That’s why it’s on top of my list.

WHY BOOK A PROFESSIONAL PHOTO SHOOT

✔️Better quality pictures from professional photographers
✔️ Local expertise of the best shooting location and best time
✔️ Stress-free vacation
✔️ Best souvenirs to take home with you that last forever

Learn More

🎨 Authentic Mexican Crafts & Art

2. Alebrijes

Alebrijes are brightly colored Mexican folk art sculptures of fantastical (fantasy/mythical) creatures.

Originally from Oaxaca, these wooden carvings are hand-painted with incredibly intricate patterns and vibrant colors. No two alebrijes are exactly alike.

You can find them in various sizes, from tiny figurines that fit in your pocket to large statement pieces for your home.

They are one of the most artistic and unique souvenirs you can buy in Mexico. 

Tip: Look for the artist’s signature on the bottom to ensure authenticity.

3. Olinalá Wooden Boxes

Olinalá boxes were traditionally made out of aloe wood and covered with lacquer. Today, they can be made out of many different types of wood and have beautiful designs on them. They are ideal for storing jewelry or other small items. They are great souvenirs because they are decorative and functional.

4. Onyx Sculptures

Onyx stone is found throughout Mexico.

It has been used for all different things, including decorating churches.

Today, onyx sculptures are a popular souvenir.

You can get chess sets, glasses, vases, and all the different statues and figures made out of onyx. 

5. Mexican Jewelry (general)

If you love jewelry, Cancun is a great place to shop for something special. Jewelry is a great souvenir because it does not take up space in your luggage and can be used.

Whether you get a piece that you only use on special occasions or a piece of jewelry you can use daily, wearing it will remind you of your vacation (one of the best reasons to buy souvenirs).

Mexican artisans produce all types of jewelry, and you can find some truly unique and beautiful pieces here.  While in Cancun, you can shop for traditional Mayan-inspired jewelry.

The Maya civilization has a long history of making jewelry—they started over 5,000 years ago! Traditional Mayan jewelry uses large, typically brightly colored stones. You can find pieces with polished turquoise, blue and green jade, and other semi-precious stones.

You can find rings, bracelets, necklaces, animal figurines, and masks. Mexico is a country that loves color, and jewelry is no exception.

All over the country, you can find colorful crochet jewelry. There are colorful earrings, bracelets, and necklaces to choose from. 

6. Taxco Silver Jewelry

Mexico is the place to go if you want to buy silver. The best silver in the country comes from Taxco, a region of Mexico that began making silver before the Spanish arrived in Mexico. Today, silver for Taxco is sold worldwide and is known for being high quality. You can find anything and everything you could ever want to be made out of silver. Silver comes in a wide range of prices depending on its intricacy and the size of the item. 

7. Zapotec Rugs

Zapotec rugs are hand-woven rugs made from wool. The rugs each have a unique design on them, often featuring traditional Zapotec patterns.

They are all unique, and the dyes used on the wool come from natural products such as plants, insects, and minerals. Zapotec rugs are made on hand-operated looms and have become incredibly popular in the last few years.

8. Mexican Lacquerware

Mexicans have been making lacquerware products for hundreds of years. They traditionally made oil from ground seeds and different powdered minerals to make a protective and decorative layer on items.

Lacquerware was often used on gourds to make drinking glasses. When the Spanish arrived, the art changed and has continued to evolve until today.

Now you can find the technique applied to all sorts of items, including furniture and kitchenware.

9. Mexican Marionettes

The different indigenous groups of Mexico made their versions of marionettes. Marionette puppets are still popular in Mexico and you can find all different types. They come dressed in traditional or modern clothing, and you can find marionettes of famous historical people and pop culture personalities.

10. Handmade Mexican toys and decorative items

When you shop for souvenirs in Cancun, you will find a huge variety of handmade toys and items to decorate your home with. There are lots of items to buy for children to play with, from adorable, brightly colored wooden turtles with bobbing heads to wooden games. Mexico is known for loving bright colors, and its textiles, baskets, and countless other decorative items can add energy and color to any space.

11. Mexican Day of the Dead souvenirs

Mexicans celebrate the Day of the Dead on November 1st and 2nd, but souvenirs commemorating this holiday are available all year round.

Day of the Dead is a time when Mexicans celebrate their loved ones who have died. If you have the chance to visit Mexico during this time you will see altars that have pictures of loved ones, sugar skulls, and cempazuchitl flowers (marigolds).

You can find beautiful Calavera Catrinas, or elegant skulls that celebrate the beauty and nature in death.

Calaveras can be found on all sorts of items, such as purses, shirts, and Day of the Dead figurines.

 Wearable Souvenirs (Clothing & Accessories)

12. Embroidered Handbags

Mexicans have been embroidering fabrics for many generations.

Traditionally, embroidery was used to commemorate important events and show social status.

Today you can still find a huge variety of embroidered items in Mexico.

You will typically find flowers and unique animal designs.

Embroidered handbags make great souvenirs because they are beautiful and practical.

You can find them in all different sizes and styles, and the embroidery comes in all different colors. 

13. Mexican Sombrero

For years, no souvenir says “a trip to Mexico” more than bringing back a colorful sombrero. Sombreros are traditional Mexican hats with wide brims and often feature colorful woven patterns.

When people think of Mexican sombreros, they often think of woven hats, but many high-quality sombreros are made of cloth.

Traditionally, cowboys and people working under the sun would use sombreros to protect their skin. While on vacation in Cancun, you will most likely see mariachi musicians dressed in traditional outfits with matching sombreros. 

Unlike sombreros you find at party stores or Mexican restaurants in the United States, authentic sombreros are truly a work of art.

They are beautifully crafted, with attention to detail and colorful designs, making them great items to take home! 

14. Huipiles

Huipiles are the embroidered shirts and dresses that Mayan and Zapotec women traditionally wore.

You will still find many women in Cancun using these comfortable, lightweight, and beautiful shirts and dresses.

They usually have flowers or other symbols embroidered around the neckline.

Huipiles are often white with colorful flowers, but you can find them in various colors too.

Huipiles, depending on the material used and whether the designs were hand embroidered, can be found in a wide price range. 

15. Huaraches

Huaraches are traditional sandals that are made from woven leather.

Traditionally, they were all leather, but now they are made with rubber soles.

You can get them in tan colors, or, just like almost everything in Mexico, they come in various color combinations.

There are countless different styles of huaraches. Some look more like slip-on flats, while others resemble traditional sandals.

Tip: Like most things, you get what you pay for.

You can find huaraches at a variety of prices, but try them on before buying them. Sometimes, the cheapest versions rub your skin. 

16. Guayabera 

Guayabera are traditional men’s shirts popular in Mexico and Central America.

Also known as “camisas de Yucatan,” or shirts from the Yucatan Peninsula, these lightweight shirts are worn by everyone from formal hotel workers to politicians.

In fact, the president of Mexico is known for always wearing a Guayabera. They are made from linen, silk, or cotton and worn outside of pants.

They often have vertical creases running the length of the shirt’s front. They were traditionally made in white or pastel colors, but today, they can be found in all different colors.

Guayaberas are a great way to look classy and stay cool in hot weather, and they are a souvenir that you will be able to use. 

17. Lucha Libre Masks

Lucha libre plays a big part in Mexican entertainment.

Wrestlers dress up in colorful costumes and entertain spectators with their wrestling moves and hilarious commentary.

You can find the brightly colored masks the luchadors wear all over Mexico.

They can make for an essential element in a costume in the future and are just a lot of fun for kids and adults!

18. Serapes

Serapes are long, colorful shawls that often look like a blanket.

They are rectangular, and modern serapes often have a hole where the head pops out. Some new designs even have a hood.

Serapes come in all different colors and designs and have fringe at the ends.

They come in different lengths but usually go to the wearer’s knees.

Serapes in the Cancun area were traditionally woven by Mayan women and worn by men. 

19. Mexican Leather

Mexico is known worldwide for its high-quality leather products.

You can find a variety of leather items, including shoes, wallets, belts, bracelets, purses and backpacks, and so much more.

Leather is generally very affordable in Cancun. You can even buy specialty leather items embroidered with a special cactus fiber! 

🏠 Home Decor & Practical Items

20. Mexican blankets & pillows

Colorful woven Mexican blankets and pillows are great souvenirs.

You can easily find them in souvenir shops all over Cancun.

Colorful pillows and pillow coverings are great for decorating your home.

Mexican blankets come in varying thicknesses and can be used to decorate your home. Thicker blankets are great for the beach, picnics, camping, or hiking because they are durable. 

21. Talavera Pottery

People have been making pottery in Mexico for many generations. Different pottery styles are found throughout the country, and the most common style in Cancun features brightly colored pieces with lovely designs, often in the style of Talavera (originally from Puebla).

You can find everything from large serving dishes to sugar bowls and salt and pepper shakers. Pottery is a great souvenir because you can use it in your kitchen daily.

22. Molcajetes

A molcajete is a traditional Mexican mortar and pestle made from volcanic stone. They have been used for thousands of years, dating back to Aztec and Mayan times, to grind spices and prepare salsas and guacamole. Authentic molcajetes are heavy, dark gray, and have a rough texture. They are a must-have for any serious home cook who loves Mexican cuisine. Tip: Before using a new molcajete, you need to “cure” it by grinding rice or rock salt inside to smooth the surface.

23. Hand-painted Margarita Glasses

When you are out at restaurants in Cancun you will probably notice that many use thick, beautiful margarita glasses.

These glasses are handblown and handpainted, brightly colored, and simply beautiful.

A set of hand-painted margarita glasses makes for a great present or a fun way to take a piece of your vacation home with you.

Tip: At Vidrio Soplado in Puerto Aventuras, you can watch the artists blow the glass.

You can also pick up all sorts of colorful glassware at great prices there. 

24. Maracas

Maracas are a percussion instrument that you find throughout Latin America.

Traditionally, they were made out of dried coconut shells or gourds and filled with seeds or dried beans.

Today, you can find them made out of all different materials, including leather, wood, and even plastic.

Maracas are a fun present to take home, especially for children, and they come in all sorts of bright colors. 

25. Silverware

Mexico is the place to go if you want to buy silver.

The best silver in the country comes from Taxco, a region of Mexico that began making silver before the Spanish arrived in Mexico.

Today, silver for Taxco is sold worldwide and is known for being high quality.

You can find anything and everything you could ever want to be made out of silver.

Silver comes in all different price ranges depending on how intricate it is and the size of the item. 

26. Weaved Baskets

Hand-woven baskets are one of the oldest traditional handicrafts in Mexico.

Artisans use a variety of materials, including wicker and palm, to weave baskets into all different shapes and sizes.

Today, weaved baskets are often used for decoration and storage in homes.

Weaved baskets are both practical and aesthetically pleasing, making them an ideal souvenir to take home with you. 

27. Hammocks

Nothing says a Mexican vacation like lounging on a beach in a hammock.

That’s why hammocks are a great souvenir to take home with you.

You can string it up on a beach, while camping, or in your own yard and relax and channel your vacation energy.

Throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, hammocks are still a popular way for people to sleep.

They do not take up much space- you can take them down during the day, and they traditionally keep you safe from bugs and critters.

Plus, in the hot climate, many people feel that sleeping on a hammock is fresher than sleeping on a bed.

In Cancun, you can find hammocks of all sizes—even ones big enough to fit your whole family!

They are hand-woven and come in a variety of colors. 

28. Pottery

People have been making pottery in Mexico for many generations.

Different pottery styles are found throughout the country, and the most common style in Cancun features brightly colored pieces with lovely designs.

You can find everything from large serving dishes to sugar bowls and salt and pepper shakers.

Pottery is a great souvenir because you can use it in your kitchen daily. 

29. Molinillo

Molinillos are wooden whisks for making hot, frothy (and often chocolatey) beverages.

Molinillos are beautiful, functional, and great for people who like cooking and preparing fancy beverages. 

Edible Souvenirs from Cancun

30. Mexican Chocolate

Mexicans have been drinking chocolate drinks since pre-Hispanic times.

You can find powdered chocolate mixes to take home and make drinks out of, as well as sorts of chocolate and cacao items.

Chocolate is a great souvenir. Whether you keep it for yourself or gift it to someone, you know that whoever drinks or eats it will enjoy it. 

31. Organic Mexican Coffee

Mexico is one of the world’s top producers of organic coffee, particularly from Chiapas, Veracruz, and Oaxaca.

While Cancun isn’t a coffee-growing region, you can find excellent bags of whole bean or ground coffee from these regions in local markets and specialty shops.

Look for “Altura” (high grown) on the label for the best quality. It’s a fantastic gift for coffee lovers that tastes far better than what you’d find in a standard supermarket back home.

32. Tequila

Tequila is the national drink of Mexico.

It is a product of origin, and to be called tequila, it must be made in the state of Jalisco with the blue agave plant.

There are many different types of tequila- white and aged.

You can find tequila all over Cancun; look for varieties that are not readily available where you live! 

33. Xtabentun Liquor

If you want to find a truly authentic liquor to the Yucatan Peninsula, look for Xtabentun liquor.

It is made from anise seed and fermented honey from the nectar of the Xtabentun liquor.

This liquor is only found in the Yucatan Peninsula and dates back to when the Mayan people began producing honey.

The liqueur is light amber and tastes like honey with an anise finish. 

34. Mezcal

While tequila is the national beverage of Mexico, and you will find it all over right now; one of the most popular drinks in mezcal.

Like tequila, Mezcal is made from the agave plant, but it can be made from any type of agave.

The agave plant is roasted when making mezcal, giving the finished product a smokey flavor.

Like tequila, it is a product of origins and can come from Oaxaca, Zacatecas, Durango, Guerrero, and San Luis Potosi.

One of the most fun things about shopping for mezcal is that you can often find small, independent producers. 

35. Mexican snacks and spices

If you’re not sure what to buy for yourself or someone back home, consumables are always a smart choice. Snacks, spices, and edible treats let you bring the flavor of Mexico with you—without weighing down your suitcase.

In Cancun, you’ll quickly notice that snacks are everywhere, and Mexico has some seriously unique tastes to try. Mexican candy is one of the most popular edible souvenirs, and it’s packed with bold flavors. Many candies come dusted with chile powder for that classic sweet-and-spicy combo, especially anything with mango or tamarindo.

If you prefer something mild, grab Mazapán, a crumbly peanut candy loved across the country. Candy is cheap, easy to pack, and always a fun surprise for friends and family.

Want to try something adventurous? Go for chapulines—dried grasshoppers seasoned with chile, garlic, and salt. Locals snack on them the same way others snack on chips: salty, crunchy, and strangely addictive.

Another great foodie souvenir is sal de gusano (worm salt). It’s made with roasted agave worms, salt, and spices, and it’s traditionally served with mezcal. You can sprinkle it on salads, ceviche, fruit, or cocktails. Mezcal lovers will appreciate this one.

Of course, one of the best souvenirs from Mexico is hot sauce. You’ll find everything from big-name brands to small-batch bottles with unique flavor combinations. Check supermarkets and local markets for regional sauces you won’t find back home.

If you want something authentically Mexican to cook with, consider dried hominy (maíz pozolero). It’s the key ingredient in pozole, but you can also grind it into masa for tortillas or tamales.

Another great option is mole powder, made from roasted chiles and spices. Just mix it with broth to create a rich sauce for chicken, turkey, or veggies.

And don’t leave without Mexican vanilla—one of the best in the world. Just make sure you’re buying the real thing. Many tourist shops sell synthetic vanilla labeled as “authentic.” Look for pure vanilla in reputable spice shops and expect to pay a bit more. The flavor is absolutely worth it.

These edible souvenirs are flavorful, cultural, and easy to pack—perfect for anyone looking to bring a real taste of Mexico home.

Where to find the best Cancun souvenir shops

Now that you know what you will shop for, you need to learn where to find it.

Thankfully, there are plenty of great shopping areas in Cancun to get souvenirs, so you can pick the most convenient spot. 

📍 Map of souvenir shops in Cancun

👉🏽 Market 28

Mercado 28 is one of the best places to shop for souvenirs, plus, visiting there is an experience on its own!

Market 28 is located in downtown Cancun off of Xel-Ha at Plaza San Miguel.

Market 28 is made up of countless shops and stalls selling every kind of colorful souvenir you could ask for.

Take your time getting lost among the shops, and be prepared to haggle with vendors for the best price.

Not only can you do all your souvenir shopping at Mercado 28, but you can also find great prices on tours and delicious, authentic food. 

👉🏽 La Islas shopping village

La Isla shopping village is located in the heart of the Cancun hotel zone at kilometer 12.5.

This modern shopping center has open-air walkways with water channels and over a hundred different stores to shop at.

You can shop for major international brands, luxury items, and souvenirs all in one visit.

La Islas has a Ferris wheel, lots of great restaurant choices, and entertainment for the whole family, making it a great spot to spend an afternoon. 

👉🏽 Mercado 23

Mercado 23 is located in downtown Cancun at the intersection of Avenida Tulum and Avenida Chichen Itza.

Mercado 23 is a popular place for locals to go to buy fresh produce, meats, and cheese. If you are looking for authentic food items to take home, this is the place to go. You can find stalls selling spices, salsas, and Mexican candies.

Outside of the market, there are several souvenir shops. Just like Market 28, make sure you plan to eat at Mercado 23. There, you can eat with and like a local at taco stands and small restaurants. 

👉🏽 Coral Negro Flea Market

The Coral Negro Flea Market is the only flea market in the hotel zone.

It is located near the Forum by the Sea shopping center and is filled with all sorts of souvenirs.

You will find an endless supply of keychains, t-shirts, and baseball hats with Cancun written on them.

Once you look past that though, you can also find a great variety of souvenirs and handicrafts.

The market is a great spot for Mexican pottery, hammocks, traditional Mexican clothing, and even jewelry.

Prices are not marked, so be prepared to bargain with the salespeople. Remember that if a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. 

👉🏽 Plaza las Americas

Plaza las Americas is a large shopping center located in downtown Cancun near the entrance to the hotel zone.

This shopping center is popular with locals and tourists. It features a wide variety of international and regional stores, as well as a large grocery store. 

👉🏽 Plaza la Fiesta

Plaza la Fiesta is a huge shopping center with an amazing variety of Mexican products and handicrafts.

It is located at kilometer 12.5 in the hotel zone, and you can find all types of souvenirs here.

You can get tequila, clothing, handicrafts, and food items here.

Tip: Plan what you want to buy when you go there. The huge amount of items can be overwhelming otherwise!

👉🏽 Mercado Ki Huic

Mercado Ki Huic is one of Cancun’s oldest markets located on Avenida Tulum near the entrance to the hotel zone.

Mercado Ki Huic has several small shops and stalls where you can find authentic Mexican handicrafts, art, embroidered clothing and textiles, and home decor.

It is a great place to pick up presents and souvenirs at a great price—just be prepared to bargain a little bit!

👉🏽 Manos Magicas

Manos Magicas is located in the Jardin del Arte, or Art Garden, at kilometers 4.5 in the hotel zone.

Here, you can find over 200 Mexican artisans selling their products.

This is a great place to go shopping and pick up locally-made products.

In addition to shopping, there are workshops where children can learn from local artists. 

👉🏽 Fiesta Mexicana

Fiesta Mexicana is located in Plaza Caracol at kilometers 8.5 in the hotel zone.

You can find a little bit of everything here- sombreros, hot sauce, maracas, sculptures, and all sorts of Mexican toys.

In addition to the authentic handicrafts, you can get brightly colored shirts, hats, and bags with Cancun written on them.

👉🏽 Walmart Cancun

You might be surprised to know that you can get souvenirs at Walmart in Cancun.

Walmart, just like Walmart in the United States, has a bit of everything from electronics to home goods to fresh produce.

The Walmart in Cancun is located downtown, and if you are already planning a trip there to buy supplies for your vacation, check out the souvenir section. 

👉🏽 Cancun Airport

If you decide there is a souvenir you can’t live without, realize you forgot to buy a present for someone, or just like to leave shopping to the last minute, you’ll be happy to know that the Cancun airport has extensive souvenir shopping.

Los Cinco Soles store is located in the Cancun airport and has all sorts of Mexican handicrafts.

While you wait for your flight home, you can pick up everything from jewelry to colorful pottery to Mexican candies. 

Buying Cancun souvenirs online

In today’s global world, you do not actually have to come to Cancun, or even Mexico, to purchase souvenirs.

If you realize you want more of a product you found in Mexico or forgot to buy a souvenir for someone, you can easily purchase Mexican products online.

While nothing compares to the experience of strolling through a foreign market, using local currency, and trying to bargain for the best price, it is good to know you can purchase items you want online. 

Amazon

It should probably not be surprising that you can find all sorts of Mexican souvenirs on Amazon.

You can search for all sorts of Mexican handicrafts and products and conveniently send them to any address you would like.

Shopping on Amazon is easy and a great option if you do not have space in your suitcase to carry souvenirs. 

Cancun souvenirs shopping tips

👉 Shopping for souvenirs should be fun.

👉 Whenever possible, try to purchase your souvenirs with pesos.

Many stores and vendors will accept US dollars, but they can set their own exchange rate, and it will generally be a bit lower than at the bank or currency exchange centers.

To make your money go the furthest, have pesos in cash.

Credit card companies charge shops a commission, so vendors that accept credit cards are less likely to give you a great bargain for an item. 

👉 Speaking of bargaining, be prepared to negotiate prices with vendors.

You will find that in many markets, especially Mercado 28, nothing has its price marked. That is because vendors expect you to haggle with them a bit.

The way to get the best price is to ask around at other shops to have a general idea of what an item you want costs.

And remember to always be respectful when negotiating.

Vendors are not trying to make you angry; bargaining is just part of the sales process.

Some of the larger souvenir stores have prices marked.

If you see a marked price, it is generally safe to assume the price is firm, but you can always ask the salesperson for confirmation. 

👉 When shopping, do not buy the first items that catch your eye.

The number of souvenirs in the markets can be overwhelming, but take your time looking around before selecting. 

👉 Lastly, buying more souvenirs in Mexico is easier than you expected.

With so many amazing handicrafts and local food and drink items, you can easily buy more than you have room for in your suitcase.

Plan ahead when coming to Mexico and leave some of your suitcase empty, so you have room to take home all the souvenirs you buy! 

Frequently Asked Questions about Souvenirs in Cancun

What are the must-buy souvenirs in Cancun?

Cancun has lots of great souvenir options. Some popular souvenirs are Mexican textiles, hand-woven clothing, painted margarita glasses, colorful pottery, or wooden toys.

Popular options are tequila, Mexican chocolate, or authentic spices. Whatever you decide to buy, pick something that will help you remember your vacation, like a photo shoot! 

How much do souvenirs in Cancun cost?

One of the best things about buying souvenirs in Cancun is that you can find great options in all price ranges.

You can find cheap Mexican toys, consumable items such as candy, or hand-woven bracelets for cheap.Or, you could spend a lot on a fancy bottle of tequila or amazing silver jewelry. It is up to you to set your budget and then do your shopping.

Is jewelry cheaper in Cancun? 

It depends. Prices of gold and other materials fluctuate worldwide, so if you are looking for gold or precious stones, the prices will be comparable to anywhere else in the world.

That said, Mexico is known for its high-quality silver. Shop around and you can find great prices on silver pieces. Just remember, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

What is the best time to shop for souvenirs in Cancun?

The best time to shop for Cancun souvenirs is during the morning hours (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM) at local markets like Mercado 28 and Ki-Huic. Early morning offers the fullest selection, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds. V

endors are also more willing to negotiate prices early in the day before making their first sales. For mall shopping at La Isla or Plaza Las Americas, weekday afternoons (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM) are less crowded than evenings and weekends.

Can I bring tequila and mezcal back home on a plane?

Yes, you can bring tequila and mezcal home on a plane, but regulations vary by country. U.S. travelers can bring back one liter of alcohol duty-free per person (if 21+), with additional bottles subject to customs duties.

Alcohol must be packed in checked luggage in original sealed bottles—TSA prohibits liquids over 3.4oz in carry-on bags. Consider buying at the duty-free shops at the Cancun Airport after security for easier transport. Always check your home country’s specific alcohol import limits before purchasing.

Are Mexican vanilla products safe to bring home?

Pure Mexican vanilla extract is safe and legal to bring home to most countries, including the United States. However, avoid “imitation vanilla” or products with coumarin (banned in the U.S. and some countries). Look for labels that say “pure vanilla extract” or “extracto puro de vainilla.”

Reputable stores like Walmart, Plaza Las Américas, and established spice shops sell authentic, pure vanilla. Mercado 23 is excellent for authentic Mexican vanilla at local prices, typically $12-$25 per bottle.

How much should I budget for souvenirs in Cancun?

Budget $50-$200 for souvenirs, depending on what you’re buying. Small items like maracas, friendship bracelets, or postcards cost $1-$5.

Mid-range souvenirs like embroidered bags, pottery, or small leather goods run $15-$40. Premium items like silver jewelry, quality hammocks, and aged tequila range from $ 50 to $150+.

Shopping at local markets versus hotel zone boutiques can save 30-50%. Set aside 10-15% of your total trip budget for souvenirs and gifts.

Is it better to shop in the Hotel Zone or downtown Cancun?

Downtown Cancun (particularly Mercado 28, Mercado 23, and Ki-Huic Market) offers significantly better prices—often 30-60% cheaper than Hotel Zone shops. Downtown markets provide more authentic, handmade items directly from artisans.

However, the Hotel Zone (Coral Negro, La Isla, Plaza Caracol) offers convenience, air conditioning, fixed prices (no bargaining needed), and easier access if you’re staying on the strip. For the best value and authentic experience, make at least one trip downtown.

What souvenirs are prohibited or restricted for air travel?

Certain Cancun souvenirs face travel restrictions. Prohibited items include: coral or shells taken directly from protected beaches, live plants, seeds, fresh fruit, Cuban cigars (for U.S. travelers), and items made from endangered species.

Liquids (tequila, hot sauce, vanilla) must be in checked luggage or purchased after airport security. Knives, machetes, and sharp decorative items must be checked. Always verify your airline’s and destination country’s customs regulations before purchasing.

Where can I find eco-friendly or sustainable souvenirs?

Look for eco-friendly Cancun souvenirs at Manos Magicas Art Garden, where artisans use sustainable materials like recycled glass, natural fibers, and reclaimed wood.

Ki-Huic Market features vendors using traditional, sustainable methods. Choose items made from renewable resources like palm baskets, organic cotton textiles, wooden toys, or natural coconut products.

Avoid products with coral (unless clearly marked as ethically sourced), exotic animal parts, or excessive plastic packaging. Supporting local artisan markets naturally promotes sustainable, small-batch production.

Should I buy souvenirs early in my trip or wait until the end?

Wait until mid-trip or near the end to buy most souvenirs. This strategy allows you to compare prices across different vendors, avoid carrying purchases throughout your vacation, and prevent impulse buying items you’ll later regret.

However, if you find truly unique handmade pieces at artisan markets early on, purchase them immediately—these one-of-a-kind items may not be available later. For last-minute shopping, Cancun Airport has a decent selection, but expect 20-40% higher prices than city markets.

Final Thoughts: The Best Souvenirs in Cancun

The best souvenirs will help you remember your vacation and transport you back to your time in Cancun.

Mexican souvenirs are a great representation of the country- brightly colored and fun! Mexico has a rich history of handicrafts, from hand-woven textiles to colorful pottery, and you can take a piece of that home with you.

Have fun with your souvenir shopping- just remember to leave enough space in your suitcase to get all your purchases home with you!