Kenya Shopping and Districts

(Kenya, KE, East Africa)

As the capital city of Kenya, Nairobi boasts some of the best shopping opportunities in the region. As well as open-air markets, visitors can browse the city's chic boutiques or stroll around its shopping centres and supermarkets. Elsewhere in Kenya, there's no shortage of opportunities to browse craft stalls and souvenir shops.

Opening hours vary, depending on the size of the town you're visiting and its popularity as a tourist destination. In general, shops in Kenya tend to open from Monday to Saturday, between 08:00 and 13:00. They often close for a lunch break, reopening in the afternoon from 14:00 to 17:00 or 18:00. Some shops choose not to close at lunchtime.

Where to Shop

Nairobi is home to several shopping centres, including the Sarit Centre in Westlands, Yaya Centre in Hurlingham and the Mall in Westlands. The Junction Shopping Centre on the Ngong Road and the Village Market in the Gigri district are also popular. However, when it comes to facilities, the Panari Sky Centre in Mombasa tops them all with its modern ice rink.

Buying locally crafted items or Kenya souvenirs is relatively easy. There are plenty of galleries and small souvenir shops dotted around Nairobi. Shoppers can also search for gifts at the city's Maasai Markets. The markets are staged at a different location in and around Nairobi each day. Vintage and pre-worn clothing is also on sale at 'mitumba' (used clothing) markets in the city.