Peru is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and its music is one of the most vibrant expressions of its diversity. The variety of Peruvian music instruments reflects the country’s unique blend of indigenous, African, and European influences. These instruments not only produce distinctive sounds but also carry centuries of history and tradition. If you are visiting Peru, bringing one of these instruments home is a beautiful way to remember your journey and share the country’s culture with others.
Whether you are a musician, a collector, or simply looking for a meaningful souvenir, here’s a guide to the most iconic Peruvian instruments and where to find them.
Peruvian music is deeply tied to the country’s history and regional diversity. From the high peaks of the Andes to the Amazon rainforest and the coastal towns, each region has developed its own sound and musical traditions.
The Andean region is known for wind and string instruments, often used in festivals and rituals. Along the coast, percussion-based music thrives thanks to Afro-Peruvian influences. Meanwhile, the Amazon region stands out for instruments crafted from natural materials like bamboo and seeds.
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Here are the most renowned instruments that represent Peru’s musical heritage, divided into three main categories: wind, percussion, and string instruments.
These instruments use air to produce sound and are especially prominent in the Andean region.
The quena, a traditional flute made of bamboo or wood, has been played since Inca times and produces a sweet, haunting melody. The zampoña, or pan flute, dates back to the Wari culture and is made of multiple tubes that create harmonious sounds when blown across.
Another unique instrument is the pututu, a ceremonial trumpet crafted from seashells, historically used by Inca messengers called chasquis. In Cajamarca, the clarín cajamarquino—a long wind instrument that can reach four meters—is played during festivals and has been recognized as Cultural Heritage of the Nation.
Percussion provides the heartbeat of many Peruvian styles, especially in coastal regions.
The most iconic is the cajón, a rectangular wooden box played by sitting on top and striking its front panel. It originated with African slaves and remains central to Afro-Peruvian music like festejo. In the Andes, the wankar (large drum) and chajchas (rattles made from animal hooves) are essential for dances and spiritual ceremonies, creating rhythm and connecting music to nature and tradition.
Many string instruments arrived with Spanish colonizers but were adapted to Peruvian culture.
The charango, similar to a small guitar, was originally made with armadillo shells and now uses wood. It is essential in traditional Andean music and festivals. The Andean harp comes in regional styles like the rounded Ayacucho harp or the wider Huancayo version, often accompanying huaynos and dances.
Finally, the bandurria cusqueña, similar to a lute, is popular in Cusco and produces bright, festive sounds, making it ideal for genres like qashwas and huaynos.
When selecting a Peruvian music instrument to bring home, think about its size and purpose. Smaller instruments like the quena or chajchas are easier to carry, while larger ones like the cajón or Andean harp might be better suited for serious musicians.
Make sure you buy authentic, handmade instruments from local artisans to support the community and preserve cultural heritage. Whether you want a playable instrument or a decorative piece, authenticity matters.
The best places to find authentic instruments are Cusco’s local markets, such as San Pedro Market, and Lima’s artistic neighborhoods like Miraflores and Barranco. You can also buy directly from stalls at cultural festivals.
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Bringing home a Peruvian music instrument is more than just buying a souvenir. It’s about preserving a piece of Peru’s cultural soul.
Each instrument tells a story: the quena echoes the Andes’ ancient melodies, the cajón carries the rhythm of Afro-Peruvian traditions, and the charango brings festive joy to gatherings. No matter which you choose, you’ll always carry with you the unique sounds and spirit of Peru.