Shopping in Nairobi

The city of Nairobi is interesting for tourists not only as a place with picturesque nature, national parks, interesting flora and fauna, more and more often come here to go on a small shopping tour. Our article is devoted to features that should be taken into account when making purchases in the capital of Kenya.

Helpful information

1. Most of the shops in Nairobi operate between 08:30 and 17:00 and are closed for lunch from 12:30 to 14:00. On weekends, many shops are closed or only operate for a couple of hours. However, the places of trade focused on visitors are open until late at night (and some all night), which is undoubtedly very convenient.
2. Many tourists who come to Nairobi make purchases that can not be exported outside the country. When planning a trip , remember that the customs service will not miss luggage containing diamonds, gold (and products made of them), any items made of ivory.

What can and should I buy?

1. Shopping in Nairobi will please the jewelry lovers in fact, despite certain prohibitions, there are still decorations that tourists can buy. Products made of semiprecious stones (tanzanite, tiger eye, tsavorite, malachite) are in great demand.
2. Often souvenirs are statues made of soapstone and ebony, wicker baskets, a variety of pumpkin dishes, jewelry made of beads.
3. A special place in the shopping list in Kenya is assigned to clothing, which is useful for walking and sightseeing. Undisputed leaders here are recognized cheap, but comfortable for local natural conditions sandals from old car tires, suede boots - safari boots, fabric capes called kikoy, which will protect from the scorching sun.
4. In addition, in Nairobi you can buy quality carpets, delicious tea and coffee, sweets, alcoholic beverages, antiques and various small items.

Where to go shopping?

Souvenirs, food, drinks can be bought from merchants directly on the street. Tea, coffee, alcohol - in duty free. For more valuable acquisitions, it is better to go to a large supermarket (Village Market, Nakumatt Lifestyle) or one of the chain stores where you can buy branded clothes at an affordable price. And in the city market sellers offer delicious fruits and vegetables at a very low price.