From Langata Road, Kazuri Beads Factory stands out: beaded branding, colourful, artistic, serene. Kazuri is an African jewellery-making brand and a unique cultural experience within Nairobi. It derives its name from the Swahili word for small and beautiful, a hint at the dainty pieces you’ll get to see here.
The brand was launched in 1975 with just two employees and one founder, a lady who loved collecting beads.
Today, it has grown into a thriving enterprise employing 50 artisans—mostly women from marginalized communities. Kazuri has since trained them in every stage of bead production, empowering them to earn a living, support their families, and build better futures.
Why You Should Visit
Kazuri is a cultural gem that every traveler should experience. We recommend visiting for a relaxing moment before or after your safari, or as an addition to your Nairobi city tour. You can even pair it with Giraffe Centre or the Karen Blixen Museum nearby, for a full day of discovery.
Kazuri offers the following:
Factory Tour
Kazuri’s products are handcrafted, ceramic pieces made from clay sourced directly from the slopes of Mount Kenya. And if you’ve ever wondered how a lump of clay becomes a stunning piece of jewellery, Kazuri promises you a free tour of the factory.
You’ll watch the entire bead production process: shaping, painting, glazing, and firing. You’ll also see the incredible skill and patience that goes into every bead. It’s fascinating and gives you a deep appreciation for the artistry behind Kazuri’s pieces.
And here’s something we loved: beads that don’t make the quality cut aren’t wasted. They’re recycled or donated to schools for crafts and even math lessons—a thoughtful, zero-waste solution.
The Kazuri Bead Bar
At the Bead Bar, you can create your own jewellery using Kazuri’s vibrant beads. You’ll get to pick your colours, mix and match designs, and with the help of the artisans, craft a bracelet, necklace, or earrings. You will only pay for the beads you use and get to take the piece you make home. It’s an interactive and creative experience perfect for all ages, and best shared with family and loved ones.
Kazuri Shop
Within the premises, you’ll also discover the shop where Kazuri sells its finished pieces. Here, you can choose from a variety of delicate, timeless pieces, great for gifting. It’s also a unique way for you to carry a piece of Kenya home, like a memory you can wear.
Kazuri Workspace
The green garden aesthetic makes Kazuri Beads an ideal working space for remote workers and digital nomads. It is quiet and clean, with plenty of fresh air—the best hideaway for a slow, productive day in Nairobi. You’ll find comfortable seating, charging points, and reliable Wi-Fi. And when hunger calls, there is a cozy shop that serves coffee, tea, and light snacks to keep you fueled.
Kazuri is part of our Nairobi city tour packages at Kendirita, and we believe every traveler should experience its magic. When you’re next in Nairobi, let us plan your visit. We promise it’ll be one to remember.
Writer: Winnie Wekesa