Nairobi, Kenya

Best places to shop in Nairobi

5 markets, malls and shopping districts in Nairobi — what to buy, when to go, and the tourist traps to avoid at each one.

Last updated 2026-08-11

1. Maasai Market

The rotating craft market that sets up in a different location each day — beadwork, soapstone, carvings, kikoi cloth and Maasai jewellery.

Where: Market
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Rotates daily; Tuesday Westgate, Thursday Junction, Saturday Highridge
Cost: Budget
Tip: Ask your hotel where it is today. Opening prices run four to five times the settling price and bargaining is expected, energetic and friendly.

2. Kazuri Beads and Kenyan craft workshops

The women's ceramic bead cooperative in Karen, plus Kitengela glass and the Utamaduni craft centre nearby.

Where: Luxury
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Monday to Saturday 09:00–17:00
Cost: Mid-range
Tip: Kazuri employs single mothers and the workshop tour is free. Fixed prices and verifiable provenance, unlike the markets.

3. City Market and Biashara Street

The 1930s covered market for craft, flowers and produce, with Biashara Street's textile and kanga shops beside it.

Where: Market
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Monday to Saturday 08:00–18:00
Cost: Budget

Watch outIvory, and products described as 'bone' that are not, are illegal to export and carry severe penalties in Kenya and at your own border. Soapstone, wood and beadwork are the safe and genuine crafts.

4. Village Market and Two Rivers

The large modern malls — international brands, supermarkets, cinemas and a Friday craft market at Village Market.

Where: Mall
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Daily 09:00–21:00
Cost: Mid-range

5. Kenyan coffee and tea

Kenya AA coffee and Kenyan black tea, sold by specialist roasters and at the malls, at a fraction of export prices.

Where: Street Shopping
Map: Open in Maps
Best time: Daily 09:00–19:00
Cost: Budget–Mid