Botswana is a beautiful country with a rich culture, and diving into its local markets for souvenirs is a fun way to experience that culture firsthand. Whether you’re in the capital Gaborone or visiting a small village, you’ll find unique items that will remind you of your trip long after you’ve returned home. Here’s your essential guide to souvenir shopping in Botswana.
What to Buy in Botswana
Traditional Crafts
Basket weaving is an ancient craft in Botswana, and you’ll quickly notice the intricate handmade baskets in almost every market. These aren’t just for decoration but are also used in daily life to store and carry goods. They’re made from materials like grass and palm leaves, often dyed with natural colors and shaped into beautiful patterns. These make for timeless souvenirs that can brighten up your home.
Wooden carvings are also worth keeping an eye on. Often sculpted from local wood, these carvings depict animals, people, and symbolic objects. You’ll find everything from small figurines to large masks meant to hang on the wall. If you’re a fan of wildlife or tribal art, these make excellent mementos from your Botswana adventure.
Textiles
If you enjoy fabrics or are looking for something practical that still feels exotic, traditional textiles and fabrics from Botswana are a great choice. Look for handwoven fabrics in vibrant colors adorned with local patterns. You can find blankets, shawls, and even clothing that are locally made. These textiles are lightweight, making them easy to pack and carry.
The designs usually reflect Botswana’s wildlife or traditional patterns passed down through generations. The more unique and handmade it looks, the more authentic it likely is.
Jewelry
Handcrafted jewelry made from natural materials like beads, bones, and semi-precious stones is another popular pick. Botswana is known for high-quality beadwork that is used to make necklaces, bracelets, and even anklets. You can find pieces that range from simple and earthy to intricate and elaborate. For something truly unique, look for pieces made from ostrich eggshells, which have been used in local jewelry-making traditions for thousands of years.
Pottery
If you’re into handmade pottery, Botswana has some gems for you. You’ll find various ceramic items including cups, plates, and decorative bowls. These items are crafted by local artisans and are often distinct from mass-produced souvenirs. The earthy colors and designs are inspired by the local environment and are a great way to bring a bit of Botswana’s land back home with you.
Local Foods and Spices
If you’re a foodie, consider picking up some local herbs, spices, or sauces. Botswana is known for its unique spice blends, and you can bring home ingredients to recreate dishes like Seswaa (a traditional stew) or try adding a local twist to your everyday meals. Don’t forget to check if you can legally bring food items back to your home country though!
Makgabisa Dolls
These handmade dolls are traditional in Botswana and are often dressed in bright, colorful clothing featuring local patterns. They’re not just toys but also important cultural items passed down to explain family traditions and values. Whether for a younger family member, a friend, or as a decorative piece, Makgabisa dolls are a unique reflection of Botswana’s rich heritage.
Paintings and Art
Art lovers will appreciate the work of Botswana’s painters and artists, many of whom highlight the country’s stunning landscapes and wildlife. Paintings capturing scenes of the Okavango Delta or the Kalahari Desert are common, many using bold colors that reflect the African sunset. If you’re looking for something lightweight and easy to pack, prints are a good alternative to full-size paintings.
Where to Shop in Botswana
Gaborone Craft Market
Located in the capital city, Gaborone Craft Market is one of the best places to start your shopping journey. The market hosts a variety of vendors selling traditional baskets, textiles, and leather goods. You can find jewelry, paintings, and even sculptures here. The market is fairly tourist-friendly, but it’s always a good idea to bargain a bit to get the best price.
Maun Old Mall
Maun is the gateway to the Okavango Delta, and it’s where many travelers begin or end their trip. The Old Mall is a relaxing spot to shop for souvenirs. Here, you’ll find a mix of local crafts, including the famous baskets I mentioned earlier. This is also a great place to find small art galleries where you can buy paintings and handmade art.
Kazungula Market
If you’re visiting the Chobe National Park area, the Kazungula Market is worth a stop. The market isn’t huge, but it offers textiles, beadwork, and carvings, often at slightly cheaper prices compared to the bigger markets in Gaborone or Maun. It’s an ideal spot if you’re passing through on the way to Victoria Falls.
Thamaga Pottery
If pottery is your thing, make your way to Thamaga Pottery. Located in a small village about 40 km from Gaborone, this pottery collective produces stunning ceramics sold all over the country. By visiting the village, you can buy your pottery straight from the artisans themselves. This craft cooperative supports local artisans, so your purchase goes directly to support the community.
Oodi Weavers
Oodi is a small village about 20 km outside Gaborone, famous for its weaving collective. The artisans here make lovely handwoven fabrics and tapestries. Many of the products are sold in tourist shops around the country, but if you visit the village, you can buy them directly from the weavers—plus, you’ll get a firsthand look at how the fabrics are made. It’s a great opportunity to connect with the artisans and learn the stories behind their work.
Tips for Souvenir Shopping in Botswana
Bargaining
Bargaining is common in Botswana’s markets, especially in tourist areas. Vendors usually expect you to haggle, but keep things friendly and respectful. It’s not about trying to get the lowest price possible, but finding a fair price both you and the vendor are happy with.
Supporting Local Communities
Whenever possible, buy from local artisans or cooperatives. In Botswana, your souvenirs aren’t just mementos—they often help support entire villages. Many of these artisans depend on selling their crafts as a primary source of income, and by shopping local, you’re contributing to communities and preserving cultural traditions.
How to Spot Authentic Items
Look for details that show items are handmade, like slight imperfections in a woven basket or variations in a carved statue. If something looks too perfect, it might be mass-produced. Ask the seller where it was made to ensure you’re getting something truly local.
Pay in Pula
Although some touristy places might accept US dollars or even South African rand, it’s usually easier and cheaper to pay in Botswana’s currency: Pula. You’ll avoid bad exchange rates and keep the shopping experience smoother.
Pack Smart
Remember that some souvenirs, like large wooden carvings or big baskets, can be difficult to pack. Plan ahead by leaving extra space in your suitcase or bring a foldable bag that you can use to carry your goodies back home. Also, check your country’s import restrictions to avoid any surprises at customs.
Final Thoughts
Souvenir shopping in Botswana is more than just collecting trinkets—it’s about connecting with the rich traditions and artisans of the country. Handmade baskets, colorful textiles, and intricate jewelry are just a few of the things you can take back. Just remember to shop locally and ethically so that your souvenirs come with stories worth sharing.
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