Art and crafts
Maasai objects. Multicolored beaded jewelry is particularly popular, even though it is made exclusively for tourists (although it is still traditionally worn by the Maasai, Turkana and Samburu tribes). You can also find gourds finely decorated with beads, as well as other tribal objects (spears, shields, fly swatters...).
Sisal baskets. Kiondo baskets are often woven by old Kikuyu women. They come in all shapes and sizes. You can find them at any market. The most beautiful (and therefore most expensive) are woven from baobab bark fiber.
Soapstone objects. These pastel-colored carvings (animals, chess sets, ashtrays, etc.) from the Kisii region are highly prized. The best place to buy them is in the town of Kisumu (on the shores of Lake Victoria).
Makonde sculptures. These magnificent ebony sculptures are native to southern Tanzania. Unfortunately, there are many by-products. Genuine Makonde sculptures are quite expensive, so it's best to travel to Tanzania where prices are more affordable.
Contemporary art. Kenya is a destination renowned for its savannahs, but the country also abounds in artistic and cultural treasures. Numerous art galleries have opened in the capital over the last 10 years, testifying to the effervescence of local contemporary artistic creation.
Miscellaneous. Don't miss out on leather goods, fabrics, paintings and statuettes of all kinds.
