Kiribati might not be a place on everyone’s travel bucket list, but it should be. This remote island nation in the Pacific offers more than just stunning beaches and unique traditions—it also has local markets filled with amazing souvenirs. Whether you want something to remind you of your trip or to share a piece of the culture with someone back home, souvenir shopping in Kiribati is an experience you won’t forget.
Why Shop for Souvenirs in Kiribati?
Kiribati is made up of dozens of islands, each with its own distinct culture and products. It’s not a country that’s flooded with mass-produced souvenirs. Instead, you’ll find handcrafted items, textiles, and unique products that carry deep cultural meaning. The best part? Each purchase directly supports the local community. Buying souvenirs in Kiribati is a great way to take home something meaningful while also contributing to the local economy.
Local Crafts
Kiribati is known for its beautifully crafted items that are made mainly from coconut and pandanus leaves. One of the most common—and most popular—items to buy is the ‘te kamei’, or sleeping mat. These mats are handwoven from pandanus leaves and are often decorated with colorful patterns. They aren’t just a practical item either; these mats are used for significant life events, like weddings and births, making them an extremely meaningful souvenir.
Smaller items like handwoven baskets, fans, and hats make great gifts and are easy to pack. These are also made from pandanus leaves and are dyed in a range of colors. Since weaving is an important skill passed down through generations, purchasing these items supports long-standing traditions in the community.
Textiles and Clothing
If you want to bring home a wearable souvenir, Kiribati has several options. Traditional clothing, like ‘te boutou’ or the ‘te bino’, is something you might find at the markets. These are wraparound skirts or sarongs often worn during cultural ceremonies and dances. Made from cotton or other light materials, they’re perfect for Kiribati’s tropical climate—and ideal for wearing during your vacation or back home.
You can also find locally made t-shirts, sarongs, and other clothing showcasing typical Kiribati designs. While simple, these items often have traditional meanings or support environmental causes, thanks to local sustainable clothing brands.
Shell Jewelry
The islands in Kiribati are surrounded by coral reefs, so it makes sense that shell jewelry is one of the most popular souvenirs. You’ll come across necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and anklets made from seashells of all shapes and sizes. Many artisans in Kiribati craft each piece by hand, often mixing shells with pearls or other natural materials. These pieces aren’t just beautiful—they represent the deep connection between the people of Kiribati and the surrounding ocean.
One classic example of shell art is the “Anga couple shell necklace”. It is a symbolic item given as a wedding gift. Even if you’re not getting married, it makes a perfect, meaningful gift for a friend or loved one.
Phoenix Islands’ Artisanal Products
The Phoenix Islands, part of Kiribati, are well-known for their pristine nature and protected environment. Artisans from these islands create products that reflect these values. You can find items such as woven bracelets or local sculptures that are made from sustainable materials like bamboo or wood.
If you’re an art lover, the Phoenix Islands’ artists also craft carvings that depict marine life, storytelling from local legends, or symbols representing everyday practices. These can either be hung as wall art or used as display pieces.
Where to Shop in Kiribati for Souvenirs?
Now that you’ve got an idea of what to buy, you’ll want to know where to find the best items. While Kiribati is largely rural and many islands are sparsely populated, you can still stumble across local markets and shops offering unique souvenir options. Here are a few must-visit spots:
Betio Market, South Tarawa
Betio is one of the busiest places in Kiribati. As you walk through, you’ll see vendors selling locally handmade crafts, shell jewelry, and woven products. The market is not just for tourists—it’s also where locals come to buy their everyday items. This gives it an authentic vibe. You can try some local food while browsing for souvenirs, making it a great spot for an afternoon shopping trip.
Bikenibeu Market, South Tarawa
Bikenibeu Market is another great place to pick up affordable souvenirs. It’s a little less hectic than Betio and offers a wider variety of items. Here, you’ll see handcraft stalls selling everything from ornamental wood carvings to handmade textiles. You can also find traditional medicines and tools if you’re interested in learning more about Kiribati’s natural remedies and cultural practices.
Kiribati Handicraft and Cultural Centre, Bairiki
If you prefer higher-end handcrafted items, the Kiribati Handicraft and Cultural Centre in Bairiki is a must-visit. This center sells one-of-a-kind handmade items, and many products support local artisan groups and community projects. You might pay a bit more here compared to the other markets, but the quality is excellent, and every purchase helps keep local traditions alive.
Come for the Products, Stay for the Experience
One of the best things about shopping in Kiribati is the opportunity to interact with the people who make the items. When buying a handmade mat or shell necklace, the vendor can often tell you the story behind it—whether about the crafting process or the item’s cultural significance. This makes each purchase more personal.
Haggling Tips
Haggling in Kiribati is generally not as intense as in other parts of the world. Prices for handmade items are usually fair given the hours of work that go into each piece. That said, most vendors won’t mind if you try to negotiate a small discount, especially if you’re buying several items. Just remember to always be polite while negotiating, and keep in mind that your purchase helps support the local artisans.
If you’re unsure about prices, it can be helpful to ask locals what they normally pay. This will give you a good idea of what’s fair, though most of the time, the listed prices won’t be outrageous.
Things to Keep in Mind When Shopping
Transportation Restrictions
Before buying large or bulky items, be sure to consider how you’ll transport them back home. Items like the larger sleeping mats or wooden carvings might require special arrangements or extra fees for baggage. Smaller items like jewelry or scarves are much easier to pack and carry.
Cultural Awareness
Many of the items sold in the markets, like traditional clothing or mats, hold significant meaning to the people of Kiribati. When buying these items, treat them with respect. It’s also a good idea to ask vendors about any cultural rules associated with using these items. Learning a little bit about their importance can help enrich your own appreciation of what you’re taking home.
Final Thoughts
Sourcing souvenirs in Kiribati is a special experience. These aren’t just trinkets you’ll find in a typical souvenir shop; they’re one-of-a-kind pieces that carry history and culture. Whether you’re bringing home a handwoven mat, a shell necklace, or a piece of traditional clothing, you’ll have a meaningful memento to remember your trip by.
So take your time while exploring Kiribati’s markets. Meet the people, listen to their stories, and bring home a piece of this incredible island nation knowing you’ve made a positive impact on the local community, too.
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