best markets in Nairobi

Nairobi, the vibrant capital of Kenya, is home to some of the best markets in Africa. From the lively Maasai Market to the bustling City Market, there’s something for everyone. These lively markets are found both within the bustling city centre and its outskirts where you find all sorts of products. From fresh produce to traditional crafts, the markets perfectly serve your shopping needs. Explore the beautiful stalls filled with colourful textiles, handmade crafts, fresh produce, and traditional souvenirs. Immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the friendly atmosphere as you discover the 6 best markets in Nairobi.

Let go!

1. City market

Image: tripadvisor

This sizeable outdoor market in the heart of Nairobi is where you find everything under one roof. It offers a variety of clothes, wood carvings, paintings, and soapstone sculptures. You will also find fresh perishables such as meat, groceries, and flowers. It is a fantastic spot to purchase items typically unavailable in larger stores. You can easily haggle over the fair costs if you have the patience. It is an excellent location to meet your shopping needs within the city centre.

2. Maasai Market

Image: Maasaimarketkenyapark

The Maasai Market is an outdoor, vibrant, reasonably priced marketplace with craftspeople offering beaded fabrics, bowls, and handcrafted jewelry. This market has stores spread nationwide. It is loved because of its extensive product selection and affordable prices. You will find lovely items and gifts that make fantastic home décor.

3. The village Market

Image: tripadvisor

Located in upscale Gigiri, The Village Market is one of the largest modern shopping centres with over 150 market stores. It has large stores and restaurants occupied by over 400 local and global artisans that offer ethnic relics. It is the oldest market in Nairobi, yet it has beautifully designed architecture and artistic treasures in every corner.  It is a perfect spot for children to hang out, with bowling alleys, playing areas, and trampoline parks.

4. Kariokor market

Image: Upkenya.com

Kariokor is a large and vibrant market that stocks various products such as décor items, leather goods, jewelry, footwear, and baskets. Many artisans and sellers produce these items for local and international customers. The place is super packed, with stalls filled with a lovely and colourful selection of handcrafted, authentic items at affordable prices. 

5. Yaya Centre

Image: Yaya centre

Yaya Centre is a famous shopping centre with over 100 stores. It is a modern and beautiful structure and is home to many food courts, supermarkets, shops, and brands like Emporio Armani and Salvatore Ferragamo. The place is immaculate and organised, with beautiful services. It is a good spot for kids, and the premises are designed to give disabled people easy access.

The first time I visited Yaya Centre was in 2007. Recently in 2019 I returned and the shopping centre still looked beautiful.

6. Gikomba market

Image:  cnewske

Gikomba, popularly known as Gikosh, is a large and lively market where you find all sorts of clothes and footwear. It is a wholesale market where most Nairobi retailers get their items for sale at a cheap price. For this reason, the place is overly crowded and may not be friendly to a first-time visitor.

7. Recommendations

If you are an international tourist or traveller we recommend Yaya Centre, City Market, Maasai Market and The Village Market. If you are local ofcourse you can visit all the six, especially if you want to find a cheap bargain.

Conclusion

Nairobi’s markets express the city’s vibrant spirit, offering you a glimpse into its entrepreneurial zeal. Try any of these best markets and get an alluring shopping experience that will leave a lasting impression.

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best markets