Shopping in Tanzania

The most popular tourist destinations in Tanzania like Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar City, Dodoma, Stone Town, Mwanza, Moshi, Mbeya, Bagamoyo, Kilwa Kisiwani, Ujiji, Morogoro or Kigoma offer plenty of opportunities for souvenir shopping. Tourists from around the world can buy gifts and souvenirs to take back home to their friends and relatives. Some of the most popular gift and souvenir items include, Maasai tartan blanket, Tanzanite Jewelry, Beadwork, traditional wood carvings, and hand-printed batik fabrics. These items found at small shops in most of the cities frequented by tourists can be found even in shopping malls, shopping center or craft shops. The only difference would be that you won’t be able to bargain for the price at these shopping malls or craft shops.

In Dar es Salaam, the main shopping area is located along Samora Machel Avenue where there are plenty of shops offering souvenir items, cotton fabrics and local paintings. However, if you are on the lookout for some cheaper souvenir items, then it is best to visit one of Tanzania’s several indigenous markets. Kariakoo Market is the largest local market in Dar es Salaam that sells locally grown fresh produce including fruits and vegetables, and spices as well as some textiles and handicraft items. Likewise, the colorful Arusha Central Market is yet another fascinating shopping hub for foreign tourists. Listed below are some of the most visited places for shopping favorite souvenirs and indigenous items in Tanzania: