Find the best markets, malls, and unique souvenirs in Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe offers extraordinary natural wonders including Victoria Falls, one of the world's largest waterfalls, and Hwange National Park with its massive elephant population. Experience ancient ruins at Great Zimbabwe, vibrant cities, and some of Africa's best safari experiences.
Unique local products worth bringing home.
Zimbabwe is world-famous for Shona stone sculpture carved from verdite, serpentine, and springstone. These abstract human and animal forms represent a living art tradition unique to Zimbabwe.
Intricately woven baskets in traditional geometric patterns, crafted by Tonga and Ndebele women using palm leaves. Each design carries cultural significance.
Hand-carved wooden masks, elephants, giraffes, and traditional figures crafted from indigenous woods like teak and ebony. Popular at Victoria Falls curio stalls.
Vibrant African printed cotton fabric used for clothing, wraps, and home furnishings. Buy by the meter or as ready-made clothing. Each print tells a story.
Traditional Tonga river spirit carvings made from bone, wood, or metal. The Nyami Nyami symbol is unique to Zimbabwe and deeply meaningful to Tonga culture.
Wax-resist dyed fabric artworks depicting African wildlife, landscapes, and village scenes. Lightweight and easy to pack, these make striking home decorations.
Traditional and contemporary ceramics decorated with African motifs. Items include bowls, vases, and decorative pieces from local cooperatives.
Experience authentic local shopping culture.
Zimbabwe's largest and most vibrant market where locals buy fresh produce, fabric, second-hand clothing, and crafts. A genuine experience of everyday Harare life with hundreds of vendors.
Open-air craft market with dozens of stalls selling stone sculptures, wooden carvings, baskets, and souvenirs. The most accessible craft market in Zimbabwe for tourists.
Informal craft market along the tree-lined Avenues featuring paintings, carvings, textiles, and jewellery from local artisans. Good selection and relaxed atmosphere for browsing.
Popular weekend market selling fresh organic produce, artisan foods, handmade crafts, and local plants. Popular with Harare's expat and middle-class community.
Historic market in Zimbabwe's second city offering fresh produce, traditional medicinal herbs, crafts, and household goods. Less touristy than Victoria Falls markets.
Bargaining phrases, souvenir recommendations, and budget tips.
Where to find different types of shops.
Harare's most popular upscale shopping destination in Borrowdale, featuring fashion boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops, and galleries. Safe, well-maintained, and pleasant for browsing.
The original commercial heart of Harare with department stores, pharmacies, banks, fabric shops, and street vendors. Best for essentials and local shopping experience.
The main tourist street in Victoria Falls town lined with curio shops, galleries, tour operators, and restaurants. Everything the tourist needs within walking distance.
Mid-range suburban shopping centre in Harare with supermarkets, clothing stores, restaurants, and a cinema. Popular with middle-class Harare residents.
Air-conditioned shopping options.
Harare's premier shopping destination in Borrowdale with over 100 stores including fashion boutiques, beauty salons, restaurants, and specialty food shops. The most pleasant shopping environment in Zimbabwe.
Well-established mall in western Harare featuring supermarkets, clothing stores, electronics shops, banks, and a food court. One of Harare's most complete retail destinations.
Central Harare's main commercial building housing shops, offices, and services on multiple levels. Features banks, clothing retailers, and a food court popular with city workers.
How to negotiate prices in local markets.
Bargaining is expected and welcomed at craft markets and roadside stalls — start at 40-50% of the asking price and negotiate from there
Be friendly and patient — aggressive bargaining is considered rude; humour and warmth get better results
Bundle items to get better overall prices — buying three pieces together often yields a 20-30% discount
Fixed prices apply in malls, supermarkets, and established restaurants — only bargain at informal markets
If you walk away, vendors often call you back with a better price
USD cash is king — vendors may offer discounts for USD over mobile money payments
What you need to know about taking purchases home.
Export of uncut precious stones is restricted. Ivory and products made from CITES-listed species are strictly prohibited and will be confiscated. Cultural artefacts and ancient stone carvings may require export permits.
Zimbabwe does not currently operate a tourist VAT refund scheme.
Returning residents: $200 duty-free allowance. Visitors may bring 2L of wine, 1L spirits, 400 cigarettes. Check customs declaration requirements on arrival.
International shipping available via DHL and courier services from Harare and Victoria Falls; allow 2-4 weeks and declare all goods. Stone sculptures over 10kg may require specialist shipping.
Get our complete shopping guide with bargaining phrases, quality assessment tips, and budget planner.
Download Shopping Guide