Find the best markets, malls, and unique souvenirs in Botswana.
Botswana is Africa's premier safari destination, home to the stunning Okavango Delta and massive elephant herds in Chobe National Park. This landlocked Southern African nation offers pristine wilderness, diverse wildlife, and a commitment to conservation tourism.
Unique local products worth bringing home.
Hand-woven palm leaf baskets from the Ngamiland region, made by Bayei and Hambukushu women. Geometric patterns carry cultural symbolism — each design tells a story of wildlife or daily life in the delta.
High-quality prints and hand-painted reproductions of ancient San rock art motifs. Originals cannot be removed; these reproductions capture the spiritual imagery of Africa's oldest people.
Hand-carved elephant, lion, and wildlife figurines crafted from local soapstone by Tuli Block artisans. Each piece is unique and signed by the carver, making them collectable art pieces.
Vibrant hand-dyed batik fabrics featuring African wildlife and geometric patterns. Produced by local women's cooperatives in Gaborone and Francistown, ideal for table runners, wall hangings, or clothing.
Traditional San Bushmen jewelry made from tiny ostrich eggshell discs hand-drilled and strung into necklaces and bracelets. One of the oldest art forms in southern Africa, still practiced in the Kalahari.
Locally harvested rooibos blends and wild Kalahari honey collected by San Bushmen using traditional methods. Beautifully packaged and easy to carry home as authentic food souvenirs.
The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series set in Gaborone is beloved worldwide. Purchasing in Botswana supports local bookshops and makes a perfect literary souvenir capturing authentic local color.
Experience authentic local shopping culture.
Gaborone's liveliest informal market surrounds the African Mall building, selling everything from traditional herbs and vegetables to crafts and clothing. A bustling hub of local commerce where traders from across Botswana converge.
Open-air market near Maun's town center catering to safari travelers stocking up on souvenirs. Local artisans sell baskets, carved wood, beadwork, and Okavango-themed gifts directly from their stalls.
Street vendors line the pedestrianized Main Mall in central Gaborone selling fresh fruit, snacks, newspapers, and informal crafts. Authentic experience alongside the Three Chiefs monument and busy office workers.
Small cluster of curio stalls serving the large safari tourism trade passing through Kasane en route to Chobe National Park. Good selection of Zimbabwean and Botswana crafts at competitive prices.
Bargaining phrases, souvenir recommendations, and budget tips.
Where to find different types of shops.
Gaborone's most upscale shopping destination on the western edge of the city, housing international brands, fine dining restaurants, and premium craft stores. Air-conditioned comfort makes it ideal during hot days.
Gaborone's largest shopping center on the southeastern side of the city, featuring hypermarkets, fashion stores, cinemas, and a food court. Popular with local families for weekly shopping.
Gaborone's original city center shopping area combining formal stores with informal street vendors. Home to Botswana Craft, the main bookshop, banks, and government buildings. Historic heart of the city.
Gaborone's industrial and wholesale district where many specialty stores, furniture shops, and trade suppliers operate. Useful for longer-stay visitors needing household goods or specialty items at lower prices.
Air-conditioned shopping options.
Botswana's largest mall on the southeastern edge of Gaborone, featuring Pick n Pay Hypermarket, Woolworths, Edgars, a cinema complex, and over 80 stores. The main food court has local and international fast food options.
Premium lifestyle mall in western Gaborone known for upscale dining including Basilico and Rodizio, international fashion brands, and a relaxed atmosphere popular with expatriates and professionals.
Conveniently located near Sir Seretse Khama International Airport, this modern mall features Checkers supermarket, fast food outlets, clothing stores, and a pharmacy — ideal for last-minute purchases before departing.
Mid-size mall in central Gaborone catering primarily to local shoppers with a Spar supermarket, clothing stores, banks, and a casual dining area. Less tourist-oriented but authentic local shopping experience.
How to negotiate prices in local markets.
Bargaining is acceptable at informal markets and curio stalls but not in malls or formal stores
Start at 60-70% of the asking price at craft markets; a reasonable final price is usually 75-80%
Buying multiple items from the same vendor gives more negotiating power
Be polite and friendly — aggressive haggling is considered rude in Botswana culture
Prices at the Botswana Craft store (Main Mall) are fixed and fair, saving you the negotiation
What you need to know about taking purchases home.
Export of wildlife products, San rock art pieces, and unprocessed diamonds is prohibited. CITES regulations apply to ivory, rhino horn, and similar items — certified legal craft items need documentation.
Botswana does not operate a tourist VAT refund scheme. The standard VAT rate is 14% and is included in all marked prices.
Returning travelers are allowed personal goods up to their home country's duty-free allowances. Alcohol: typically 1 liter spirits, 2 liters wine. Tobacco: 200 cigarettes.
DHL and FedEx operate from Gaborone for international shipping. Many craft stores can arrange shipping for large items like baskets and carvings. Allow 2-3 weeks and expect costs of $40-100 depending on destination.
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