Tanzania has a rich tradition of crafts, from bright paintings to beadwork and carvings. Buying directly from artisans and cooperatives also supports local families.
The best souvenirs
| Souvenir | What it is |
|---|---|
| Tanzanite | A blue-violet gemstone mined only near Mererani, close to Kilimanjaro |
| Tingatinga paintings | Bright, bold paintings of animals and village life, a style begun in Dar es Salaam in the 1960s |
| Maasai beadwork | Bracelets, necklaces and belts made by Maasai women |
| Makonde carvings | Detailed ebony or wood sculptures from the Makonde people of the south |
| Kanga and kitenge | Colourful cotton cloths; kangas carry a Swahili saying |
| Coffee | Arabica from Kilimanjaro and the Southern Highlands, including peaberry beans |
| Spices | Cloves, cinnamon, vanilla and masala mixes from Zanzibar |
| Baskets and kikoi | Woven baskets and striped cotton wraps |
Where to buy
- Arusha: the Cultural Heritage Centre, Maasai Market and curio shops.
- Moshi: craft shops and coffee cooperatives.
- Stone Town: Darajani Market for spices and the old town’s shops for art and textiles.
- Village visits and cooperatives, where money goes directly to the makers.
Buying tanzanite
Buy only from certified dealers who give a certificate of authenticity and a receipt, which you may need at customs. Street sellers often offer fakes. Read common scams in Tanzania.
Bargaining
Bargaining is normal in markets and curio shops, but not in fixed-price shops. Start at about half the asking price and stay friendly. Read Swahili phrases for the market.
What not to buy
- Shells, coral and starfish: their collection and export is restricted.
- Anything made from ivory, tortoiseshell, rhino horn or animal skins: illegal to export and to import into most countries.
- Uncertified gemstones.
Bring a fabric bag, as plastic bags are banned. Read the plastic bag ban.
Frequently asked questions
Popular choices are tanzanite, Tingatinga paintings, Maasai beadwork, Makonde carvings, coffee and Zanzibar spices.
From certified dealers in Arusha and elsewhere who provide a certificate of authenticity.
Collecting and exporting shells and coral is restricted. Leave them on the beach.
