“Who is your plug?” I’m certain you have heard this question asked too often in Nairobi and even on social media. If you post a lovely picture adorned in an exclusive outfit, a watch, or even classy jewelry someone is bound to ask you to share your plug for the item. One of the best marketing strategies anywhere is through referrals and we do it best in Kenya. If you love shopping, then Nairobi is the perfect destination for you. The city has a vibrant shopping scene, with everything from street markets to high-end malls. Here’s our ultimate guide to shopping in Nairobi, with recommendations on where to buy what.
Maasai Market
The Maasai Market is named after the Maasai tribe of Kenya and Tanzania who are known worldwide for their distinctive attires and customs. It is one of Nairobi’s most famous markets. The market was started in 1991 to enable the Maasai artisans in Nairobi to sell their handmade artifacts directly to the public and it has been growing successfully since then. Vendors sell a variety of handmade crafts and souvenirs. Here, you’ll find everything from beaded jewelry, wooden carvings, and paintings to traditional clothing and fabrics. The market is open on different days of the week with the most popular day being on Saturday in the city center at the high court parking lot. The market is also available at different locations throughout the city such as at the Yaya Centre on Sundays and at the Prestige Mall rooftop on Thursdays. As a pro tip; remember to bargain with the vendors for the best prices.
City Market
This is one of the oldest markets in the city having been started in pre-independence Kenya as a vegetable market, in the 1930s. City Market is located on the busy Muindi Mbingu street right in the heart of the city. It was originally known for selling only fresh produce but, has, over the years evolved to incorporate spices and Kenyan snacks. In addition, you will also find a variety of vendors selling fresh meat and fish, as well as Kenyan souvenirs and clothing. This market is open every day from early morning until late afternoon.
Yaya Centre
Started in 1984, Yaya Centre is one of Nairobi’s premier shopping malls, with over 100 stores selling everything from fashion and accessories to electronics and home goods. It is named in honor of the wife of its founder, Manu Chandaria, whom he affectionately nicknamed Yaya. Yaya Centre is also known for its unique architecture, which combines modern and traditional African design elements. The building features a distinctive thatched roof and a central atrium that is open to the sky, allowing natural light to flood the interior. The mall is also home to the Chandarana food court which is well-known for stocking food and spices suitable for Indian cuisine. Some of the popular stores in Yaya Centre include Zara, Nike, and Woolworths.
Village Market
Located on Limuru road, the Village Market is another high-end mall in Nairobi, featuring over 150 stores, restaurants, and leisure options. It offers a wide range of products including clothing, jewelry, and African-inspired arts and crafts. Some of the popular stores in Village Market include Banana Republic, Timberland, and Victoria’s Secret. This mall has a unique African theme and a central courtyard with a playground and a water fountain. The Village Market is a vigorous entertainment hub hosting a cinema that shows the latest movies, a bowling alley, and an arcade.
Gikomba Market
The Gikomba market is an important part of the cultural fabric of Nairobi. This is where we go for a more authentic shopping experience. It is one of the most important second-hand markets. Here, you’ll find a vast array of fresh produce, clothes, shoes, electronics, and accessories at incredibly low prices. The market is especially popular for its mitumba section, where you can find designer clothes at a fraction of their original cost and it’s the best place to shop at if you need to do business. You can buy low and flip the items for a profit.
Eastleigh Shopping Centre
If you’re looking for affordable electronics and gadgets, then Eastleigh Shopping Centre is the place to go. This market has a variety of stores selling everything from smartphones and laptops to cameras and gaming consoles to curtains, carpets, mattresses, and suitcases. In Eastleigh, you can also find traditional Somali and Indian clothing and accessories such as Sarees, deras, and hijabs as well as some Arabic spices, foods, and snacks.
Sarit Centre
Sarit Centre is one of Nairobi’s oldest malls hosting over 100 stores and restaurants. The mall has a mix of local and international brands, such as Game, Samsung, and Mango. Sarit Centre is also home to the Sarit Expo Centre, which hosts a variety of trade shows and exhibitions throughout the year. The popular Samantha Bridal Expo has been known to bring brides and brides-to-be from the world over for some of the best deals on bridal gowns and accessories. Sarit also hosts the Egyptian expo that showcases some of the best Ethiopian deco and cutlery. As highlighted, Nairobi is a true shopper’s paradise, with a variety of markets and malls selling everything from handmade crafts to high-end fashion. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, fresh produce, or the latest gadgets, you’re sure to find them in Nairobi. Happy shopping!