Used in communities throughout the Andes (the mountainous regions of Bolivia, Peru and Argentina) and associated with colonial trade routes, this small hybrid instrument is a creative response to contact between indigenous South American and Spanish colonial cultures and has been in existence since the start of the 18th century.

It resembles a small Spanish-style guitar with a rounded back, four or more usually five 'courses' (sets) of strings (the third pair being in octaves while the other pairs are in unison) and is formally classified as a 'fretted lute'. The sound box can be made from gourds, carved or shaped wood or, more traditionally, armadillo shells, as is the Stearns collection instrument.

Generally played by men, the charango is a versatile instrument that can be strummed, with the hand or with a plectrum, to create complex rhythmic patterns to accompany vocal music and dances, or plucked so that it can be used as a melodic instrument. Although similar to the guitar in some respects, it is usually played in a style more reflective of flamenco than of classical guitar music. It may be performed as a solo instrument or used in ensembles at social gatherings, community fiestas, or during ceremonial events.