Shopping

Kenya

Kenya is famous for many handicrafts, which are often the “signature” of a particular tribe or region. Look for Kisii stone (soap stone) carvings, Maasai jewelry, Mkonde wood carvings, and Lamu chairs and batiks. The largest selection of handicrafts can probably be found at the Maasai Market in downtown Nairobi on Tuesdays, but prepare yourself for plenty of hassling and hard bargaining. The alternative to the Maasai market is the Village Market in Gigiri, where a small number of the vendors go once a week to sell their goods. The prices are usually higher here, because Gigiri is a more upscale suburb. There is also a fine selection of stores in Mombasa, where the atmosphere is somewhat more relaxed. However, the best prices can be found by buying direct from the artisans at their villages in the countryside.

Nairobi

The two primary supermarkets in Nairobi are Uchumi and Nakumatt. For goods beyond supermarket fare, try either the Sarit Centre or Nakumatt Westlands, which are both located in the Westlands suburb. The Sarit Centre is a western-style shopping mall, with an Uchumi supermarket inside. Clothing, shipping and Internet are all available here, as well as a small movie theater.