Hunting for Souvenirs, Malindi
Whether you are in search of arts and crafts or unique souvenirs, Malindi offers some of the best shopping in Kenya. What's more, shopping in Malindi need not be a bore. A trip to the handicraft cooperative, an association counting roughly 600 woodcarvers, offers kids a chance to observe local craftsman at work. Shopping at the local markets provides children with an opportunity to test their bargaining skills. The new market on the road to Tsavo has the best selection of khanga and kikoi, the brightly colored f... Read Moreabric worn by women and men. Funky souvenirs from baskets made out of bottle caps to sandals with tire tread soles can be found at the tourist market. Shops specialized in beadwork sell necklaces as well as beaded belts and sandals. While beaded crafts are sold at the markets, the shops in old town tend to have higher quality work. The handicraft cooperative has the best selection of woodcarvings and soapstone figurines. The 'boutiques' in Malindi sell a wide selection of Kenyan and East African arts and crafts including paintings, clothing and jewelry. Most are situated in the shopping arcades at the north end of Lamu Road. While prices in the markets and most shops are negotiable, they are fixed in all of the high-end boutiques as well as the handicraft cooperative.




