Where Is The Maasai Market Location In Nairobi? Schedule and Days of the Maasai Market
After an unforgettable Kenyan safari adventure, there are no better ways to hold on to those memories than to purchase some authentic souvenirs. You might be wondering: “Where is the Maasai Market in Nairobi?”
Maasai Market is a vibrant open-air bazaar where one can find all sorts of interesting products, such as beaded jewelry and artifacts, clothing made from African fabrics, and even interesting home utensils and handbags.
Origins and Tradition of the Masai Market in Nairobi
Maasai Market gets its name from a tribe known for its rich culture and strong commitment to its traditions. The Maasai are known for being extremely skilled artisans, considering that they live mostly around Kenya’s major wildlife reserves.
When they realized how much tourists appreciated their artwork, they started making products for trade. They eventually started selling these products in Nairobi, which is Kenya’s capital, to meet the rising demand for their products, and thus, the iconic Maasai Market was born.
Planning Your Visit to the Masai Market in Nairobi
It is worth noting that the Nairobi Maasai Market is dynamic. It changes locations depending on the day of the week. Some locations have remained consistent over time, although the market hours have been known to vary at times. It is always essential to check the current locations before visiting.
Which are the Maasai Market Days and Maasai Market Locations to visit, Maasai Market Days timings
The market moves around the city on different days of the week, typically operating from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at each location. However, these Maasai Market schedules depend on many factors, including weather conditions.
Below is a day-to-day schedule of the Maasai Market from Tuesday to Friday and each day’s location, with detailed Maasai market days timings
Monday: Not Opened
Maasai Market is not open on Monday but is open the rest of the week, from Tuesday to Sunday.
Tuesday: 8.00 am to 5.30 pm
On Tuesday, the market is in Westgate Shopping Mall in Westlands (the upper car park) relocated to Kijabe Street opposite the Norfolk Hotel
Wednesday: 8.00 am to 5.30 pm
On Wednesday, the Market is at the Capital Centre on Mombasa Road, just past Nyayo Stadium and Sarit Centre.
Thursday: 8.00 am to 5.30 pm
On Thursday, the Market can be found in Nakumatt Junction Shopping Mall on Ngong Road on your way to Karen and Sarit Centre, Westlands
Friday: 8.00 am to 5.30 pm
On Friday, you can find the market in Village Market in Gigiri (the upper car park) along Limuru Road
Saturday: 8.00 am to 5.30 pm
On Saturday, the Market is located at The High Court parking lot in the city center (behind the Hilton Hotel) along City Hall Way Road, Nairobi, Kenya
Sunday: 8.00 am to 5.30 pm
On Sunday, the Market is in the Yaya Centre in Hurlingham along the Argwings Kodhek Rd, Nairobi.
Please note:- Maasai Market is not open on Monday, but it is open the rest of the week.
Bargaining Tips at the Maasai Market when buying items
Just like any other shopping place in the city of Nairobi, you have to be aware of the way you look, how you are dressed, and how you talk; any of these factors might be the determining factor on how much you will be charged for the items you buy.
Some tourists cannot escape this because they don’t know, as they are not from Africa. You have to bargain and act like you know what you want. You can buy all your souvenirs in one go, but be prepared for serious bargaining.
If you want to avoid attention, wait until the market gets busy; it becomes easy to move around and bargain for yourself.
It’s also important to note that too much bargaining can hurt the vendors, especially if they insist on not changing the price. In that case, you should just pay the amount they are asking for to ensure that you are not killing their business.
It mostly creates a balance and also keeps them at bay to remain operational.
Recommended Things to Buy at the Maasai Market for souvenirs or gifts, or home decor
1 Maasai Sandals
Maasai leather and beaded sandals are to be found at most of the markets. Do not rush and buy, but rather take your time comparing different designs and prices across a few shops. Try them on before buying, as the sizes can differ between vendors.
2 Jewelry
Jewelry, especially local jewelry, is featured in most of the markets. You can find some cool stuff, ranging from brass to beads. Visitors usually buy bracelets beaded in the Kenyan national colors.
Note that many of the best artisans do not display their best-quality works for fear of competitors copying them. It is OK if you ask them if they have other products to show you other than the displayed ones.
3 Shukas or Masai Blankets
Shukas are Maasai blankets. They are gifts that most people will use, so they are worth buying for your friends and family members. They are perfect to use in picnics or chilly weather.
4 Kiondos
The woven carryall bags are available in natural or colorful, striped varieties. They are perfect for carrying daily items. Besides, it is so beautifully colored and unique in design.
5- Artwork
Buy some artwork to hang on your walls, but don’t spend a fortune on it. If your budget is more flexible, you can check out some of Nairobi’s art galleries, like those at the Railway Museum or Kuona Trust.
You will also find a variety of wooden carvings, bowls, and baskets to add a little Kenyan vibe to your home.
Other Places you can shop for Souvenirs apart from the Maasai Market in Nairobi
There are other Masai Markets you can explore and buy souvenirs, artifacts, and decorations from in Nairobi. These are just alternative options that you can take if in case Masai Market seems to be far, or closed, or even if you don’t want congested areas.
1. Toi Market
Toi market is located on the outskirts of the Kibera slum and is the definition of one man’s trash is another man’s come-up. It is second-hand shopping at its best as any unique style person will easily find what they are looking for.
Mtumba (Swahili word for second hand) is the modern-day chatty vendor selling everything from vegetables to designer clothes. 99% of their stuff is shipped from the west and mostly comes from Gikomba.
Toi Market is Located on Suna Rd along Ngong Road, Nairobi, Kenya.
2. Amani ya Juu
Amani ya Juu is a Swahili phrase that means “Peace from Above.” Amani ya Juu is a social economic enterprise committed to peace and reconciliation for women from many African nations and cultures. Amani ya Juu uses beautiful African materials to create high-quality fair-trade home goods and accessories.
Amani began in 1996 with four women sewing placemats together in Nairobi. Since then, Amani has grown to over 200 women representing diverse communities from all across Africa.
Amani ya Juu is on Ring Road in Riverside, near Prime Bank, Westlands, Nairobi.
3. Spinners Web Kenya Ltd
Spinner’s Web Kenya is one of the best curio shops in Kenya. With over 450 creative artists, all from different parts of Africa Best of Hand-made Products. Be amazed by the sheer workmanship and talent that is showcased within our shop.
Spinners Web Kenya is located on Kitisuru Road, off Peponi Road, Spring Valley, Nairobi. Apart from the amazing collections from Masai Mara, Spinners Web Kenya Ltd offers an amazing platform for creatives and lovers of creative designs who can come buy items and products.
4. Utamaduni
Utamaduni was originally set up as a unique house of crafts to appeal to tourists coming through Langata on their way to visit the game park or on their way back from the giraffe center and elephant orphanage.
An emporium of handcrafted artifacts, fashion, accessories, homeware, beauty products, antiques, and more. Utamaduni is a one-stop shop for exquisite products proudly made here in Kenya and across the African continent.
Utamaduni is located on Bogani East Road in Langata, Nairobi, Kenya.
5. Hilton Arcade Curio Shop
The oldest craft shop in town is located here. In addition to the low prices and one-price policy, there are several reasons to visit. You get a basket and walk through the shop filled with mesmerizing African crafts.
Beaded bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and animals, as well as wooden spoons, carved creatures, and Kitenge bags and purses, are all items to look out for. It is your standard Maasai Market merchandise at a great price.
Hilton Arcade Curio Shop is located at Hilton Arcade, on Mama Ngina Street, Nairobi
6. Kazuri Beads Factory
Kazuri was founded to employ local women who were struggling to find work or employment. Visit Kazuri and go on a factory tour to watch the work of famous beads being handcrafted. As well as selling jewelry made by women, you can buy a packet of loose beads and make something wonderful for yourself.
Kazuri Beads Shop is located in Mbagathi Ridge, Karen, Nairobi.
7. Nairobi City Market
One of the city’s main souvenir businesses is concentrated in this covered market, which has dozens of stalls selling woodcarvings, drums, spears, shields, soapstone, Maasai jewelry, and clothing.
It’s a hectic place, and you’ll have to bargain, but there’s plenty of good stuff on offer. It’s an interesting place to wander around in its own right, though you generally need to be shopping to make the constant hassle worth the bother.
Nairobi City Market is located along Muindi Mbingu Street and Koinange Street in the Nairobi CBD.
8. Masai Market at Sarit Centre
The Sarit Maasai Market is held every Wednesday and Thursday at the Silo Parking -1M, offering a vibrant shopping experience right in the heart of Sarit.
Discover a diverse array of unique, handcrafted items, including jewelry, clothing, artwork, and more, all showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Maasai community.
Whether you’re looking for a special gift or a one-of-a-kind piece to add to your collection, the Sarit Maasai Market has something for everyone.
Recommendations and Tips for Shopping at the Maasai Market in Nairobi
- We recommend being accompanied by our guide, so he can be helpful in bargaining and even negotiate in situations you find hard to come out of. Our Safari Guides will offer an imaginary security just from their presence; not everyone will want to take advantage of you.
- Never agree to the first price someone says. After all, you’re in a market, the prices aren’t set, so put those bargaining skills to use.
- We recommend using the local currency, the Kenyan Shillings, when visiting the Maasai Market. Try to take small notes or denominations with you to avoid the hassle of looking for change.
- As part of our sustainable policy, supporting communities is vital, but as a tourist, don’t take advantage of them as well; respect and support them reasonably.
- Avoid having conversations with people not selling or in their respective spots selling items, for security reasons, we recommend just sticking to the vendors.
- Avoid carrying expensive things on you, such as jewellery – you’d hate for it to fall off or for someone to try to trade you something for your ring.
- Lastly and importantly, ensure you have your documentation with you, including your Passports, IDs, and Visas for identification.
