Best Souvenirs from Kenya Must-Buy Mementos for All Travelers

Kenya, a country known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes, offers a treasure trove of unique handicrafts and gifts that make for perfect souvenirs. From vibrant Maasai markets to bustling shopping areas, Kenya is a haven for those seeking one-of-a-kind items to take back home. In this article, we will delve into the details of the best souvenirs to buy in Kenya, providing you with a comprehensive guide to the country's remarkable craftsmanship. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of color, artistry, and cultural significance.

What You Need To Know About Kenya Souvenirs

Kenya has many shops where you may get handicrafts, fabrics, apparel, accessories, artwork, and souvenirs. The best choices are typically found in markets located in cities, towns, and tourist destinations.

In Nairobi, the Maasai markets are held in different shopping malls on specific days. To find out the timing, it's a good idea to ask the mall staff about famous things to buy in Kenya or call ahead.

You can find a wide variety of Kenyan-inspired handicrafts at these markets, such as jewelry, home decor pieces, mats, coasters, picture frames, t-shirts, artwork, fabrics, handbags, and more.

Gift shops at shopping malls, airports, and hotels sell comparable things. Don't forget that the costs are frequently greater and not negotiable there. These shops might, however, provide unusual pieces and better-quality goods that are difficult to locate elsewhere.

Nairobi, Kenya-Maasai Market

Tips To Bargain When Shooing Souvenirs From Kenya

If you're not in a high-end store with fixed prices, it's typical practice in Kenya for people to barter when making a purchase.

Although haggling is commonplace in this society, it's crucial necessary for keeping considering that the craftspeople who make these exquisite objects labored long and hard to produce them. They rely solely on what they can sell to support themselves and their families, often earning low wages.

In these situations, it is unreasonable to negotiate too vigorously and to drive costs as low as possible.

You can be expected to pay more than the natives as a Westerner as well. Some choose to have a local dealmaker negotiate on their behalf to acquire a reasonable price in order to handle this.

You should try to negotiate a discount of 20% to 50% off the asking price in the majority of markets. The location can, however, affect the discounts. In general, you can have fewer bargaining advantages in touristy locations. It is best to have a price that you believe to be fair and to bargain toward that price.

Personally, I try to resist asking for extra discounts if the price seems fair to you. You can still obtain a decent deal while making sure the trader receives a fair price because, as you must remain within in head, the identical item may cost significantly more in your native nation.

When buying Kenya souvenirs,  haggling is common in the country. You can still enjoy the experience and laugh a lot even if you can't come to an agreement.

Read more: The richness of Kenya culture and traditions

What Souvenirs To Buy In Kenya?

Prepare to be overwhelmed with choices as you explore the diverse shopping areas and markets in Kenya. You'll find an abundance of enticing options for your home, as well as clothing and accessories for both yourself and your children. In fact, your biggest challenge may not be deciding what to buy, but figuring out how to carry everything back with you!

The purpose of this post is to provide some inspiration for your family trip and offer a glimpse into the incredible array of famous things to buy in Kenya available. Keep in mind that there are countless other amazing items beyond what is listed here. The following suggestions are based on our personal collections and are also popular choices among many tourists.

So, without further ado, let's dive into the world of Kenyan souvenirs!

Maasai Beads

Maasai beads are made souvenirs to buy in Kenya

One of the most cherished souvenirs to buy in Kenya is jewelry made of colorful beads, which hold great significance in Maasai culture. Necklaces and bracelets adorned with Maasai beads can be found in Maasai markets across the country. For visitors to Nairobi, recommended places to find Maasai beads include Kazuri Bead Factory, Maasai markets in the CBD, City Market, and Karaoke Market. You can also explore Maasai villages near national parks, such as Masai Mara Game Reserve, for a wider selection.

Kiondo

Local artisans from the Kamba and Kikuyu tribes created the exquisite handbag known as Kiondo. These bags are made of strong and lightweight fibers and come in a variety of sizes and colors, making them simple to carry. Kiondo is a great gift option available at Curio stores all around Kenya for your friends and loved ones.

Kiondo is a great gift option available all around Kenya

Kenyan Coffee

Kenya is famous for being East Africa's top producer of coffee, making it the perfect destination for travelers who enjoy the beverage. To taste the best coffee right from the source, take a tour of nearby coffee fields. Popular locally-made brands include Ngunguru and Peaberry Farms. Additionally, a variety of Kenyan coffee brands are available nationwide in stores and shopping centers. Enjoying a taste of Kenya at home and thinking back on your enjoyable travel-related coffee shop is a great experience during your trip to the nation.

Macadamia Nuts

For nut enthusiasts, Macadamia nuts are a must-try and can be purchased as a delicious souvenir. Kenya offers a range of exotic snacks, including cashew nuts, groundnuts, walnuts, almonds, pistachios, pumpkin seeds, and dates. Look for these edible souvenirs in the "nibbles and snacks" section of supermarkets throughout Kenya.

Local Wood Carvings

Kenya's rich artistic heritage is evident in its local wood carvings, which make thoughtful and authentic gifts. Ebony carvings and Soapstone carvings are popular choices, showcasing intricate animal shapes and various colors and patterns. Soapstone carvings originate from the Tabaka Hill region in Kisii County, while Ebony carvings are crafted by the talented Kamba people. Curio shops across the country offer these exquisite carvings to enhance your living space and serve as a reminder of your journey to Kenya.

Masai Warriors Pair of Wooden Sculptures Statues Kenya 

Akala

Akala, a type of footwear made from recycled tires, can be found in markets throughout Kenya. Available in different designs and sizes, Akala shoes are trendy among Kenyan men.

Kitengela Glass

The Kitengela community in Nairobi is a hub for local artisans specializing in glasswork. Discover a wide array of glass items such as flower vases, jugs, decorative animals, glass murals, tableware, glass furniture, and stained glass windows. These unique pieces are crafted using recycled glass, adding an eco-friendly touch to your must-buy Kenya souvenir collection.

Kikoy and Maasai Shuka

Immerse yourself in the vibrant Kenyan culture with local fabrics like Kikoy and Maasai Shuka. Maasai Shuka, traditionally associated with the Maasai people, comes in striking combinations of blue and red. It can be used as a blanket, tablecloth, throw pillowcase, or transformed into a fashionable scarf. Colorful Kikoy fabric, on the other hand, is popular along the coastal areas of Mombasa, Malindi, and Lamu Island. In Nairobi, various shops offer a wide selection of Kikoy, which can be fashioned into beautiful dresses, sarongs for women, and jackets for men.

Kenyan culture with local fabrics like Kikoy and Maasai Shuka

Kenyan Artefacts

In the northern regions of Kenya, such as Samburu, Masai, and Turkana, you'll find a treasure trove of authentic traditional artifacts because they're the best things to buy in Kenya. These unique pieces include shields, bows and arrows, spears, traditional swords, gourds, wrist knives, and neck pillows. They serve as extraordinary decorative gifts that can adorn your home, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kenya.

Leather Products

Kenya offers a variety of high-quality leather products that make excellent gifts. You can find authentic leather goods at Maasai markets located throughout the country. Rift Valley Leathers, Leather Masters, and Luxury Leather Africa are among the local leather producers. From shoes and bags to belts, these durable leather products showcase fine craftsmanship and superior quality.

By choosing these remarkable Kenyan souvenirs, you not only bring home cherished mementos but also support local artisans and contribute to the preservation of Kenya's cultural heritage. So, immerse yourself in the vibrant markets and shops, and discover the perfect souvenirs to commemorate your unforgettable journey through Kenya's diverse and captivating landscapes.

As you explore the vibrant markets and shopping areas of Kenya, you'll discover a world of exquisite souvenirs that capture the essence of this beautiful country. From Maasai beads and handwoven Kiondo bags to aromatic Kenyan coffee and intricate wood carvings, each item tells a unique story and holds a piece of Kenya's rich cultural heritage. By selecting these authentic and meaningful things to buy in Kenya, you not only bring home a tangible reminder of your journey but also support local artisans and contribute to the preservation of traditional craftsmanship.

To make your travel experience to Kenya even more convenient and hassle-free, consider utilizing the services offered by Kenya Immigration Services. With their online visa application platform, you can apply for your visa with confidence and ease. Enjoy the benefits of a streamlined process, secure transactions, and efficient service. By clicking the "Apply Now" button below, you can begin your visa application process right away and embark on your next adventure to Kenya with peace of mind.

Apply for a Kenya ETA online on the Kenya Immigration Services website.