Where to Buy Authentic Souvenirs in Zanzibar: Best Shops, Markets & Artisan Spots
Why Souvenirs from Zanzibar Are Special
Zanzibar is more than pristine beaches and turquoise waters — it’s a cultural crossroads where African, Arab, Indian, and European influences blend into something unique.
Its crafts, spices, and art reflect centuries of history, making souvenirs from here truly meaningful.
🛍 Best Places to Buy Souvenirs in Zanzibar
1. Stone Town’s Darajani Market
If you want a true local shopping experience, Darajani Market is a must.
- What to buy: spices, vanilla pods, cloves, handwoven baskets, and fresh coffee beans.
- Map: Darajani Market on Google Maps
- Tip: Bargaining is expected — start at about half the asking price and work your way up.
2. Memories of Zanzibar
One of the most famous souvenir shops in Stone Town.
- Website: memories-zanzibar.com
- What to buy: high-quality Tinga Tinga paintings, kanga and kikois (colorful fabrics), wood carvings, and jewelry.
- Why it’s great: fixed prices, air-conditioned, perfect for those who don’t want to haggle.
3. The Spice Route Zanzibar Cafe
- Google Maps: Aroma Spice & Coffee
- What to buy: pre-packed spice blends, masala tea mixes, coffee beans.
- Good to know: They vacuum-seal their products — perfect for taking home without worrying about spills.
4. Cultural Arts Centre Zanzibar
Sustainable, Original, Community-Driven. Local Goods Made by Local Community. Hamamni Street, Stone Town, Zanzibar Urban/West, Tanzania
- Instagram: The Collective Zanzibar
- What to buy: paintings, sculptures, photography.
- Bonus: Your purchase directly supports East African artists.
5. Forodhani Night Market (for Edible Souvenirs)
While it’s more famous for street food, you can also find packaged snacks, honey, and spice mixes to take away.
- TripAdvisor: Forodhani Gardens Night Market
6. Shopping in Paje – The Village Market & Paje Spice Shop
A stop in Paje, on Zanzibar’s southeast coast, offers a different kind of souvenir shopping experience — quieter, more laid-back, and rooted in the village’s local life. Tripadvisor lists several small specialty shops here, with The Village Market and Paje Spice Shop standing out as traveler favorites (Tripadvisor Australia, Tripadvisor UK).
- The Village Market – A small, friendly souvenir shop in the heart of Paje village, selling locally made crafts and gifts.
- Paje Spice Shop – The go-to spot for fresh, locally sourced spices, with friendly staff and a relaxed atmosphere.
Shopping here perfectly complements the hustle and bustle of Stone Town’s markets, giving you a chance to support local community initiatives while enjoying a slower pace by the beach.
🖌 Popular Souvenir Types from Zanzibar
- Spices & Herbs – cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg.
- Tinga Tinga Art – bright, playful paintings that originated in Tanzania.
- Learn more: Tinga Tinga Art History
- Hand-Carved Wooden Decor – intricate door panels, bowls, and figurines.
- Textiles – kangas, kikois, and Maasai shuka.
- Jewelry – Maasai beadwork, silver pieces, and shell-based designs.
💡 Shopping Tips for Zanzibar
- Cash is king in local markets, but larger stores take cards.
- Don’t rush — part of the experience is talking with artisans and learning their craft stories.
- Respect cultural items — some wooden carvings or fabrics have deep symbolic meaning.
- If buying spices, ensure they are fresh and well-sealed.
Final Thoughts
Buying souvenirs in Zanzibar isn’t just shopping — it’s a way to take a piece of the island’s history and culture home with you. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Stone Town or visiting artisan workshops in small villages, each purchase supports the local economy and keeps traditions alive.
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