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.
Shops
Expand all1. Sarit Centre - Kenya's largest mall
Show more
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.Show this on mapE-mail this item
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
Markets
Expand all2. Maasai Market - Traditional African crafts
Show moreStarted 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.Show this on mapE-mail this item
Opening Hours
Sat & Sun 9am-3pm
Address
Law Courts Car Park, Off City Hall Way, Nairobi
Transport
Taxi
Specialists
Expand all3. Woodley Weavers - Hand-woven fabrics and rugs
Show more 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.Show this on mapE-mail this item
Opening Hours
Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
Address
Chaka Road , Hurlingham, Nairobi
Telephone
+254 (0) 733 612028
