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Shopping in Zanzibar

Exploring the winding alleys of Stone Town is a journey for the senses, but it is also a wonderful opportunity to take a piece of Zanzibar home with you. The shops and bustling bazaars are filled with a variety of locally produced crafts. Choosing these authentic goods doesn’t just provide you with a unique memento; it directly benefits the local community and helps preserve centuries-old traditions.

A variety of locally produced crafts can be found in the shops and bazaars of Stone Town.

Buying such goods benefits the local community:

  • Embroidered ‘kofia’. These are hats as worn traditionally by Muslim Men
  • Khanga –Cloths for women and Kikoi cloths for men worn as a skirt or a waist wrap
  • Tie and die and Batik materials and table cloths
  • Tinga tinga’ paintings
  • ‘Mkeka’- Woven Mats‘Udi’
  • Incense burners and Candle holders made from clay
  • Zanzibar Spice Baskets
  • Soaps and scented oils
  • Women’s henna body painting available in salons around Stone Town
  • ‘Mkoba’- Woven Baskets
  • Recordings of local music Taarab, Jambo jambo, etcWood carved doors and chests

Authentic Textiles and Fashion

Zanzibar is famous for its vibrant colors and intricate patterns. Look for these traditional pieces to add a splash of the island to your wardrobe or home:

  • Khanga and Kikoi: Beautiful, versatile cloths. Women traditionally wear the Khanga, while men wear the Kikoi as a stylish waist wrap or skirt.
  • Embroidered ‘Kofia’: These are the iconic, finely stitched hats traditionally worn by Muslim men.
  • Batik and Tie-Dye: Discover stunning handmade materials and tablecloths featuring unique island designs.

Handcrafted Art and Home Decor

Transform your living space with items that reflect the soul of the archipelago:

  • Tinga Tinga Paintings: Vibrant, whimsical, and colorful art that originated in East Africa.
  • Woven Wonders: Look for Mkeka (woven mats) and Mkoba (woven baskets), showcasing the incredible skill of local weavers.
  • Clay and Scent: Traditional Udi (incense burners) and candle holders made from local clay are perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere.
  • Zanzibar Spice Baskets: Small, aromatic baskets filled with the island’s famous “gold.”

Beauty and Sensory Delights

Indulge in the natural scents and ancient beauty rituals of the Spice Island:

  • Soaps and Scented Oils: Locally made using fresh ingredients like cloves, lemongrass, and coconut.
  • Henna Body Painting: Visit a local salon in Stone Town for intricate, traditional henna designs—a beautiful and temporary way to wear Zanzibari art.
  • Musical Souvenirs: Take home the rhythmic sounds of the island with recordings of Taarab music or the famous “Jambo Jambo” melodies.

Planned Your Shopping Trip

To make the most of your time in the bazaars, keep these business hours in mind:

Days Morning Hours Afternoon Hours
Monday – Thursday 09h30 – 18h00 (Open all day)
Friday 09h30 – 11h30 14h00 – 18h00
Saturday – Sunday 09h30 – 18h00 (Open all day)

Pro Tip:

Friday is a spiritual day in Stone Town. Most shops close midday for prayers and reopen in the afternoon, making it a great time to enjoy a long, leisurely lunch!

Please note that ATMs and currency exchange services are exclusively available in Stone Town, so we recommend securing any necessary cash before heading to the coastal areas or rural villages.

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