Unique African Souvenirs: What to Buy and Where to Find Them

21 January 2026

Africa is a land of vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and some of the most unique souvenirs you'll ever come across. Whether you're looking for handcrafted jewelry, traditional textiles, or something utterly one-of-a-kind, Africa has it all. But with so many incredible finds, where do you even start? Don't worry—I’ve got you covered. This guide will take you through some of the best souvenirs to bring home and where to find them.

🏺 Why African Souvenirs Are Special

African souvenirs aren’t just decorative pieces—they tell stories. Each handcrafted item represents years of tradition, passed down from generation to generation. They showcase the diverse cultures, artistry, and incredible craftsmanship of local artisans. And the best part? No two items are exactly the same!

Now, let’s dive into some must-buy souvenirs and the best places to find them.

🎭 1. African Masks – A Piece of Culture

If you want something that screams "Africa," then an African mask is the way to go. These masks hold deep spiritual and cultural significance, often used in rituals and ceremonies.

🔍 Where to Find Them

- Ghana – The markets of Accra, especially the Arts Centre, are filled with beautifully carved wooden masks.
- Nigeria – The famous Benin City markets are home to some of the most intricate bronze and wooden masks.
- Côte d'Ivoire – The Baoulé people are known for their stunning, symbolic masks.

👉 Tip: Always ask the vendor about the meaning behind the mask—it makes for a great story when you take it home!

👜 2. Kitenge Fabrics – Wear a Piece of Africa

African fabrics are a burst of color and creativity. Kitenge (or Ankara) is one of the most popular fabrics, used to make everything from dresses to headwraps.

🔍 Where to Find Them

- Tanzania – Local markets in Dar es Salaam and Arusha are packed with bright, bold textiles.
- Nigeria – Lagos' Balogun Market is a goldmine for high-quality fabrics.
- Senegal – Dakar's Sandaga Market has an endless selection of stunning prints.

👉 Tip: Buy fabric and have something tailored right there—they’ll make you a custom-made outfit in no time!

⛏️ 3. Maasai Beaded Jewelry – Handmade Beauty

The Maasai people of Kenya and Tanzania are famous for their intricate beadwork. Whether it’s a necklace, bracelet, or earrings, these handcrafted pieces are full of meaning and symbolism.

🔍 Where to Find Them

- Kenya – The Maasai Market in Nairobi is a must-visit for stunning beaded accessories.
- Tanzania – Arusha’s markets are filled with authentic Maasai jewelry.

👉 Tip: If you're buying directly from a Maasai artisan, don’t be afraid to negotiate—it’s part of the culture!

🌿 4. Shea Butter – The Ultimate Skincare Secret

Shea butter isn’t just a beauty trend—it’s been used for centuries in Africa for its healing and moisturizing properties. This natural skincare product is rich in vitamins and antioxidants.

🔍 Where to Find It

- Ghana – Northern Ghana, especially Tamale, produces some of the finest raw shea butter.
- Burkina Faso – Known as the heart of shea butter production, you’ll find top-quality products here.
- Mali – Local markets in Bamako are perfect for picking up pure, organic shea butter.

👉 Tip: Go for unrefined shea butter—it retains the most nutrients!

🏆 5. African Drums – Take the Rhythm Home

Music is at the heart of African culture, and nothing is more iconic than the traditional djembe drum. These hand-carved drums create a deep, rich sound and are often used in storytelling and celebrations.

🔍 Where to Find Them

- Mali – Bamako’s markets are filled with high-quality, handmade djembes.
- Senegal – The bustling markets of Dakar offer beautifully carved drums.
- Ghana – The Arts Centre in Accra is known for its authentic djembe drums.

👉 Tip: The bigger the drum, the deeper the sound—choose one that matches your vibe!

🏵️ 6. Shona Stone Sculptures – Hand-Carved Masterpieces

Zimbabwe is famous for its Shona stone sculptures, carefully hand-carved from different types of stone such as serpentine and soapstone. These sculptures often depict animals, people, and spiritual symbols.

🔍 Where to Find Them

- Zimbabwe – Harare’s Avondale Flea Market is a great place to find authentic sculptures.
- South Africa – Markets in Cape Town and Johannesburg often sell pieces from Zimbabwean artists.

👉 Tip: They can be heavy—make sure you check airline luggage restrictions before buying a big one!

☕ 7. Ethiopian Coffee – A Taste of Africa

Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee, and its beans are some of the best in the world. If you’re a coffee lover, bringing home a bag (or ten) is a must.

🔍 Where to Find It

- Ethiopia – Visit Addis Ababa’s Merkato (one of the largest markets in Africa) for premium coffee beans.
- Kenya – Nairobi’s coffee shops often sell high-quality Ethiopian brands.

👉 Tip: Look for single-origin beans and avoid pre-ground coffee for the freshest taste.

🏡 8. Woven Baskets – Functional and Beautiful

Handwoven baskets are both practical and gorgeous. They’re crafted from natural fibers like sisal and palm leaves, making them eco-friendly, too!

🔍 Where to Find Them

- Rwanda – The famous “Peace Baskets” can be found in Kigali’s craft markets.
- Ghana – Bolgatanga is known as Ghana’s basket-weaving capital.
- Burkina Faso – The markets here are filled with gorgeous woven creations.

👉 Tip: These make great gifts—lightweight, practical, and undeniably stylish.

🎨 9. Tinga Tinga Paintings – Vivid and Unique Art

Originating from Tanzania, Tinga Tinga paintings are colorful, playful, and full of life. They make for perfect souvenirs that brighten up any space.

🔍 Where to Find Them

- Tanzania – The Tinga Tinga Arts Cooperative Society in Dar es Salaam is the best place to buy authentic pieces.
- Kenya – Nairobi’s markets also have a great selection of Tinga Tinga art.

👉 Tip: Roll them up and transport them in a tube to keep them safe!

🧿 10. Tuareg Silver Jewelry – Elegant and Symbolic

The Tuareg people of the Sahara Desert create stunning silver jewelry, often engraved with intricate symbols that hold deep cultural significance.

🔍 Where to Find It

- Mali – Markets in Timbuktu and Bamako have beautiful, handcrafted pieces.
- Niger – Agadez is a great place to buy authentic Tuareg jewelry.

👉 Tip: Authentic Tuareg silver jewelry is usually made of high-quality silver—check for hallmarks or inscriptions.

🌍 Final Thoughts

Bringing home a souvenir from Africa isn’t just about having a keepsake—it’s about preserving a piece of history, culture, and artistry. Whether it’s a hand-carved mask, a vibrant fabric, or a cup of the world’s best coffee, every item tells a story.

So, next time you're in Africa, skip the generic keychains and pick something truly special. After all, who wouldn’t want a souvenir with a little soul?