A Complete Guide to Shopping in Zanzibar: What to Buy and Where to Find It

Zanzibar is not only famous for its turquoise waters and ancient stone alleys, it is a shopping destination where culture, craftsmanship, and tradition would be realized. Shopping in Zanzibar is an experience that reveals the spirit of the island with colorful spice markets, stalls with hand-carved wooden treasures, etc. As you stroll in the winding streets of Stone town or go through the local beach markets, you will discover some souvenirs that bear Swahili culture, Arab influences and African craft. 

In this guide, we will explore the best shopping areas, what to buy, and how to bargain like a local. Most purchases come with stories, such as scented cloves and handcrafted jewelry, beautifully woven baskets, and Kikoi fabrics. Here, shopping is not just about buying; it’s about experiencing the island’s rich history and hospitality. Get ready to discover treasures you won’t find anywhere else in the world

The shopping scene of Zanzibar Island offers a vibrant and eclectic mix of goods that reflect the island's rich history and culture

Is it worth it to shop in Zanzibar?

Yes, it is worth shopping in Zanzibar. The island has exclusive and custom made products that are not found anywhere including spices, carved wooden arts, Maasai jewelry and the Kanga and Kikoi traditional fabrics. The prices are mostly cheap and bargaining contributes to the culture. 

In addition to the purchase of souvenirs, shopping here will enable you to contribute to the local artisans, as well as associate yourself with the rich Swahili culture of Zanzibar. Markets like Darajani and the shops in Stone Town in the souvenir stalls are reliable in providing the true treasure and thus it is a pleasant experience to the traveler who may want to take home a rich experience of culture.

From Spices to Swahili Style: The 10 Best Places for Shopping in Zanzibar

Shopping in Zanzibar is an experience that is hard to forget as far as one is seeking a unique souvenir and a local treasure. From traditional bazaars to contemporary boutiques, you will find some of the best shopping in Zanzibar, especially around Stone Town and the beachside markets. Whether you are interested in handmade craft and spices or luxury goods, these are the 10 best shopping places in Zanzibar

Darajani Market (Stone Town)

Darajani Market (also known as Darajani Bazaar) is one of Zanzibar’s oldest and busiest local markets, offering a glimpse into the daily life of locals. This lively market which is central in Stone Town has colorful stalls selling spices, fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs, traditional garments, and even artistically crafted souvenirs. The smell of cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom permeates the whole place, hence making it a unique experience for all senses. Visitors can stroll through narrow alleys, interact with friendly vendors, and discover authentic Zanzibar products at bargain prices. In any case when you need spices or simply the daily wonders, Darajani Market is where you go for the purest culture and the most charming places.

Darajani Market, also known as Estella Market, is a primary market in Stone Town, Zanzibar, selling food, spices, and other goods

Memories of Zanzibar

Memories of Zanzibar is one of the island’s most popular shopping destinations that is very often identified as he largest and most popular souvenir stores in Stone Town. In the midst of Stone Town, this neatly arranged shop is a treasure trove of top-notch goods such as spices, artisanal jewelry, sculptured wooden ornaments, African textiles, postcards, and prettily wrapped gift hampers. Unlike the street markets, prices here are fixed, offering a hassle-free shopping experience

Aesthetics and comfort are the factors that the place scores high on thus many travelers count it among the best shopping spots in Zanzibar. The place is furnished with air conditioning and is neat, so customers can have a good time away from the noisy crowd outside. There are options for gifts or personal souvenirs and therefore everywhere is a chance to win but who wins is up to the buyers because Memories of Zanzibar has the option to take home a piece of the island's culture and skills.

Address: R5PQ+V2G, Kenyatta Rd, Zanzibar, Tanzania

Memories of Zanzibar offers the most extensive selection of quality items all under one roof, at reasonable prices.

Michenzani Mall

Michenzani Mall, located in Zanzibar, is among the most convenient and contemporary shopping centers, which has both local and international products available in a clean and well-organized environment. It is located at the center of Zanzibar City and boasts of locals and tourists where they can find daily necessities, fashion, electronics, and also dine on a single roof. Although Zanzibar is famous for its traditional markets, Michenzani Mall stands out as a small yet convenient modern shopping complex in Zanzibar City with a more relaxed and cool atmosphere.

Tourists will be able to explore the clothing stores, supermarkets, and even small stores with gifts without annoying street vendors. It is a perfect destination for people who are in town seeking fast shopping, an ATM machine or even a cup of coffee before they head to Stone Town, which is within its vicinity. Michenzani Mall is the fusion of tradition and convenience of Zanzibar as the contemporary retail grows on the island.

Address: Karume Rd, Zanzibar, Tanzania

Michenzani Mall in Zanzibar is a spacious and clean shopping center with various shops

Hurumzi Henna & Crafts

Hurumzi Henna & Crafts is a charming shop in Zanzibar that specializes in natural, handmade products created by local women. It offers henna paintings, hand painted fabrics, jewellery, and traditional accessories specialising in giving the complete cultural shopping experience. 

Tourists have an opportunity to buy original, socially responsible products and contribute to the artisans in the community. The store is also an outstanding place to have beautiful henna designs painted there. Hurumzi Henna & Crafts is ideal as a destination when the traveler wants to get something meaningful other than a commercialized product. It is a must see when one is visiting the artistic and cultural heritage of Zanzibar.

Address: 242 Hurumzi Street, Stone Town, Zanzibar.

Visitors can explore a range of stunning henna artwork, from vibrant acrylic paintings to traditional henna body art.

Zanzibar Curio Shop

Zanzibar Curio Shop is an excellent place to visit when one wants to purchase genuine souvenirs and cultural gifts. This shop in Stone Town is a place that sells a variety of handcrafted products, such as wooden carvings, Maasai jewelry, spice boxes, and traditional fabrics.

Each item reflects the rich Swahili and African heritage of Zanzibar making it one of the best places to shop for meaningful souvenirs. The shop offers the best products available at reasonable prices, and friendly staff members will be happy to assist customers, making it one of the best shopping spots in Zanzibar. Zanzibar Curio Shop offers a memorable experience whether you are buying a home furnishing or a gift to yourself.

Address: Hurumzi Street, Stone Town, Zanzibar Island, Tanzania. 

The Zanzibar Curio Shop is a must-visit on your tour, offering a wonderland of crafts, souvenirs, and gifts

Aromas of Zanzibar

Aromas of Zanzibar is a wonderful boutique that deals with local spices, essential oils, and traditional perfumes. It is ideal among the travelers who want to have the popular scents of the island since it sells clove, cinnamon, vanilla, and blends of perfumes made by hand. 

The store is splendidly displayed, and one can find it easy to browse and understand the aromatic heritage of Zanzibar. Aromas of Zanzibar offer perfect gifts and souvenirs, as it is an overall sensory experience that is hard to duplicate, as it gives away the real taste of the Spice Island.

Address: shop no 371, Soko Muhogo St, Zanzibar 3619, Tanzania

Aromas of Zanzibar is a boutique specializing in spices, essential oils, and handmade perfumes inspired by the island’s heritage featuring handmade products produced exclusively in Zanzibar.

Jambo Spice Farm

Jambo Spice Farm is a distinct shopping experience that gives its visitors the opportunity to experience the renowned heritage of spices in Zanzibar. Unlike conventional markets, this farm allows visitors to see how cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg are grown, harvested, and processed

New spices, herbs, teas and natural oils can also be bought directly at the source after the guided tour. It is widely considered the best place to buy spices in Zanzibar, thanks to its authenticity and high-quality products. Tourists are fond of educational tours, tasting, and the opportunity to contribute to the local farmers in the farm. Jambo Spice Farm is a place to visit when you are willing to go home with some of the original tastes of Zanzibar.

Adresse: V976+PR5, Zanzibar, Tanzania

Chako Zanzibar

Chako Zanzibar is a unique, eco-friendly shop that promotes sustainable craftsmanship on the island. It is located in Stone Town and offers handmade products made out of recycled materials, such as glass, wood, and fabric. Every object, such as jewelry or a home item, has a story behind it that is creativity and community empowerment. 

Chako uses local artists, women in particular, and upholds fair trade and ethical manufacturing. This shop is favourable not just because of its originality, but also because of its good social effect on travellers. If you’re looking to purchase meaningful souvenirs and help the local development, Chako Zanzibar is a place to visit when shopping.

Address: Mbweni Road, near Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania

Kendwa and Nungwi Beach Markets

Kendwa and Nungwi Beach Markets offer a lively and relaxed shopping experience on the northern coast of Zanzibar. These outdoor markets are known for their brightly colored Maasai jewelry, home-made sandals, woven bags, and vivid Kikoi fabrics. Visitors can stroll along sandy pathways lined with stalls, enjoy the relaxed beach atmosphere, and support local artisans

Bargaining: It is an enjoyable experience, and this goes hand in hand with getting unusual souvenirs at a fair price. Kendwa and Nungwi Beach Markets are perfect for people who want to buy beachwear or culturally inspired handicrafts, which is accompanied by stunning ocean views, providing a genuine experience of a coastal city in Zanzibar.

Address: 67WQ+C2V, Kendwa, Tanzania

Kendwa Beach Market is a vibrant art gallery and market with handcrafted items, local music, street food, and a lively atmosphere

Darajani Bazaar

Darajani Bazaar is among the most ancient and popular markets in Zanzibar, which is situated in the central part of Stone Town. Here, you’ll find fresh spices, tropical fruits, handmade baskets, and local snacks. It is a lively market where locals shop daily, and visitors can experience the authentic rhythm of island life. The environment is vibrant, full of color, aroma and cordial sellers. Darajani Bazaar is an essential stop for anyone wanting to experience local culture and find affordable souvenirs.

Address: Darajani St, Zanzibar, Tanzania

Your Souvenir Checklist: The Most Popular Things to Buy in Zanzibar

Shopping in Zanzibar is not just about buying souvenirs—it is a cultural journey through Swahili, Arab, and African traditions. You need these distinctive products as souvenirs to bring home no matter what markets you visit, whether it is Stone Town or small beachside markets.

Shopping in Zanzibar offers a blend of culture, tradition, and craftsmanship. You can walk through the meandering streets of Stone Town, or visit full-coloured beach markets, only to find something that has the soul of the island. Fragrant spices, handmade jewelry, and many more, here are the top nine things to buy in Zanzibar to make your trip unforgettable.

1. Zanzibar Spices

Spices are undoubtedly one of the top things to buy in Zanzibar, earning the island its nickname—The Spice Island. Zanzibar is also called the Spice Island and is known to have a variety of cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg and vanilla. These spices are not merely aromatic but they are also significantly related to the history and culture of the island.

It is possible to spot attractively packed spice bags and gift boxes in marketplaces and spice farms in Stone Town. Most of the vendors also provide recipes and you can prepare the taste of Zanzibar in your own house. The purchase of spices is not just a souvenir but also the taste that will remind you of your trip to this exotic island.

Zanzibar spices include cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, mace, cardamom, black pepper, and vanilla.

2. Kanga and Kikois

Kanga and Kikois are brightly colored Swahili material pieces that are worn by both men and women in the region. These fabrics often feature symbolic patterns or Swahili sayings. They can be used as scarves, wraps, tablecloths, or decorations.

Kangas and Kikois - the brightly patterned fabrics worn by local women and men

3. Hand-Carved Wooden Items

One of the top things to buy in Zanzibar are hand-carved wooden goods; they are also quite artistic and cultural. These are carved by local artisans and are usually decorated with traditional Swahili and Arab themes, as an indication of the rich heritage of the island.

The abundance of unique animal figurines and miniature Zanzibari doors are among the most distinctive souvenirs on the island, made of immaculately carved masks and animal figures. These wooden pieces of art do not only serve as beautiful decorations at home, but are also a permanent reminder of your trip. Shopping in Stone Town or local markets, one should also find time to admire the craftsmanship and help local carvers, buying pieces of one-of-a-kind.

Explore unique wood carvings from Tanzania, showcasing artistry and cultural heritage

4. Tinga Tinga Paintings

Tinga Tinga Paintings are among the most recognizable pieces of art in Zanzibar and they are characterized by their bright colors and fanciful imagery of African wildlife and village life. These paintings are made in Tanzania with the help of  vibrant enamel paints on canvas, which makes it very eye-catching and bright.

The works are playful stories written using exaggerated animals, nature and cultural scenes. Tinga Tinga art is lightweight and easy to carry and is an ideal souvenir; it is the essence and the creativity of East African culture.

5. Zanzibar Jewelry

Zanzibar jewelry is an exquisite combination of African, Arabic and Swahili cultures and is among the most distinctive souvenirs to purchase. There will be jewelry made of silver, made by hand, with colorful beads made by Maasai, shells, corals, and gemstones. All the pieces are the products of local culture and craftsmanship, and the objects generally contain some symbolic designs or tribal patterns. Whether you choose delicate earrings or bold necklaces, but in every case, Zanzibar jewelry is a great dress-up and wear reminder of your time on the island.

6. Coconut and Clove Soaps

Coconut oil, cloves, and sea minerals are natural ingredients that are used to manufacture beauty products that are appealing to the tourists. These are homemade soaps and scrubs that can be utilized by the people who are fond of organic and locally designed skincare products.

7. Coffee and Tea

Zanzibar is a source of Arabica coffee and spiced tea with a soothing smell, which would be the best souvenirs of the travelers. Local mixtures are typically ginger or cinnamon or cardamom, as the island traditionally uses spices. Stone Town shops and markets will have well packaged coffee beans and tea sets. You can drink them at home or hand them over to your family members, but the coffee and tea of Zanzibar will help bring the memories of the specific taste and tradition of the island.

8. Spice Boxes and Gift Sets

Spices boxes and gift sets are the most common to purchase in Zanzibar as the boxes have a rich taste of the famous heritage of the island. Delicately assembled in a choice of cloves, cinnamon, cardamom and blend of spices, these collections are ideal to the food enthusiasts and the homemakers. Most of them have classic recipes and you can go home and make Zanzibari dishes. Small and fragrant, they present considerate presents that attract the culture and taste of the Spice Island.

9. Decorative Baskets and Mats

Mats and decorative baskets in Zanzibar are crafted beautifully by handwoven natural palm leaves and represent the traditional craft work in the island. These green products are available in different designs and dimensions, which make them ideal in interior or domestic settings. Each of them is Swahili and Swahili art, often created by the local women. These baskets and mats can be used as hangings on the walls, pieces on the table, or even storage and attributes one of the most famous heritage of Zanzibar to your home.

Conclusion

Shopping in Zanzibar is an unforgettable cultural experience that goes far beyond simply buying souvenirs. Its markets, filled with history, color, and craftsmanship, create some of the most memorable shopping moments. Zanzibar is the island with the best shopping, for every traveler, starting with spices, and art in Stone Town, handmade jewelry, and fabrics on the beaches. Each item carries the spirit of Swahili tradition and local creativity, making your journey even more meaningful, which makes your trip even more special.

Before you travel, remember to apply for your Zanzibar online visa to ensure a smooth arrival as the first step of your journey to make sure that you have a smooth entry into the country. The process is quick to apply in advance, easy, and saves you time after arrival. Your visa will be ready once your approval comes through and that is when you can go to the colorful bazaars, mingle with the artisans, and buy the stories of Zanzibar. Whether you seek culture, fashion, or flavor, the markets of Zanzibar will always be there to give you the experience that lasts beyond your trip.