Shopping in Nairobi
For most visitors, African handicrafts are a shopping priority. Hotel boutiques are the most convenient but also the most expensive places to buy souvenirs. Dedicated craft shops are usually cheaper, but a more enjoyable option is to head to one of the Maasai markets, where bargaining is standard. For other shopping, the malls in Westlands, including Sarit Centre, are safer and less hassled than central Nairobi. Core shopping hours are 9am-5pm Monday to Friday.
Sarit Centre
Kenya's largest mall
The multi-storey Sarit Centre in affluent Westlands provides a hassle-free
alternative to shopping in the chaotic city centre. Eighty shops under one
roof range from booksellers and jewellers to acupuncturists and beauticians.
There's a cinema and a dozen eateries, too.
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Opening Hours
Most shops Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; Sat 9am-1pm. Some keep longer hours
Address
Corner Parklands & Mukinduri Road, Westlands, Nairobi
Telephone
+254 (0) 20 374 7408
Maasai Market
Traditional African crafts
Started by Maasai women who wanted to sell directly to visitors, Nairobi's
"Maasai Markets" have blossomed. This one takes place at weekends in the car
park of the Law Courts. Bargain hard for beadwork, Akamba woodcarvings and
colourful Swahili fabrics.
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Opening Hours
Sat & Sun 9am-3pm
Address
Law Courts Car Park, Off City Hall Way, Nairobi
Transport
Taxi
Woodley Weavers
Hand-woven fabrics and rugs
Community-conscious Woodley Weavers has taught 400-plus single mothers from
the Kibera slums to hand-weave rugs and other items using locally sourced
fabrics and eco-friendly plant dyes. The high weaving quality is matched by
the imaginative ethnic-style designs.
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Opening Hours
Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
Address
Chaka Road , Hurlingham, Nairobi
Telephone
+254 (0) 733 612028
