18 Best Things to Buy in South Africa: Traditional Souvenirs, Crafts & Local Shopping Guide

South Africa is a country where every craft market, boutique, and artisan studio bursts with color, rhythm, and creativity. As you explore Cape Town’s coastal marketplaces, Johannesburg’s vibrant art districts, and Durban’s cultural neighborhoods, you’ll notice how each region offers something beautifully unique.

This shopping guide brings you the 20 best things to buy in South Africa, helping you choose traditional souvenirs, handmade items, and cultural crafts that feel meaningful and memorable. Whether you’re discovering local markets or malls in South Africa, browsing affordable shopping spots, or searching for luxury items, you’ll find gifts that stay with you long after you return home.

Image Source

1. Zulu Beadwork

Source

Zulu beadwork is one of the most iconic items to purchase in South Africa, celebrated for its vivid colors and intricate symbolism. These pieces make beautiful cultural souvenirs that reflect centuries of tradition.

• Why South Africa: It’s the home of authentic Zulu craftsmanship created using traditional patterns passed down through generations.
• Where to Shop: Earth Africa Curio, Beads For Africa.
• Price Range: R100 to R800 (₹450 to ₹3,600 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: Hand-threaded beads, vibrant patterns, and lightweight, flexible structure.
• Pro Tip: Look for symbolic patterns; each design represents a message in Zulu culture.

Suggested Read: South Africa Visa for Indians

2. Rooibos Tea

Rooibos tea is one of the most beloved local products in South Africa, cherished for its naturally sweet, earthy flavor and impressive health benefits. Buying it locally ensures unmatched freshness and quality.

• Why South Africa: Rooibos grows only in the Cederberg region, giving you the freshest and most natural flavor.
• Where to Shop:Rooibos Limited, Northern Plateau Rooibos, Carmién Tea Shop, and Rooibos Tours.
• Price Range: R60 to R300 (₹270 to ₹1,350 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: Naturally reddish-brown leaves, fine-cut texture, and rich aroma without bitterness.
• Pro Tip: Try rooibos chai or vanilla-infused blends; they make uniquely South African gifts.

Apply for your South Africa visa online with OneVasco for a secure and effortless application experience.

3. Biltong

Source

Biltong is one of the most famous food items to buy in South Africa, perfectly seasoned, protein-rich, and irresistibly delicious. It’s a must-try local snack that captures the true flavor of South African cuisine.

• Why South Africa: This is the original source of true biltong, prepared using traditional South African drying and seasoning methods.
• Where to Shop: That Biltong Shop, The Biltong Company,The Biltong Clan.
• Price Range: R100 to R400 (₹450 to ₹1,800 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: Air-dried strips with a firm yet tender texture, visible spice coating, and a rich, meaty aroma.
• Pro Tip: Choose traditional beef or game biltong (like kudu or ostrich) for the most authentic taste.

Suggested Read: South Africa Famous Food: Explore The 16 Must-Try Dishes

4. African Handmade Jewelry

Source

African jewelry in South Africa stands out for its beautifully crafted designs made from brass, bone, and locally sourced semi-precious stones. These pieces highlight the country’s rich artistry and cultural heritage, making them meaningful souvenirs.

• Why South Africa: Local artisans use native stones and cultural designs that reflect genuine African heritage.
• Where to Shop: African Fynbos Gems, Aafricaa.
• Price Range: R200 to R1,200 (₹900 to ₹5,400 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: Handcrafted details, natural stone variations, and traditional African motifs in metal or bone.
• Pro Tip: Look for pieces featuring tiger’s eye, a popular semi-precious stone sourced locally in South Africa.

Suggested Read: South Africa in Summer: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

5. Carved Wooden Sculptures

Source

Carved wooden sculptures are among the most admired traditional souvenirs in South Africa, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship. Artists intricately carve wildlife figures, masks, and cultural motifs, resulting in detailed pieces that beautifully reflect African heritage.

• Why South Africa: South African woodcarvers create wildlife-inspired pieces influenced by the country’s landscapes and culture.
• Where to Shop:Bongolomba’s Carvings, Boniface Chikwenhere and Wezandla African Craft Traders.
• Price Range: R200 to R1,600 (₹900 to ₹7,200 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: Look for smooth hand-carved detailing, natural wood grain, and signatures or marks from local artisans that indicate genuine craftsmanship.
• Pro Tip: Choose pieces carved from jacaranda or leadwood for durability.

Suggested Read: South Africa to Ease Visa Rules for Indians: 90 Day Waiver & Tour Scheme

6. Local Art Prints

Local art prints are a wonderful way to take home a piece of South Africa’s vibrant creative scene. The country’s artists are known for expressive, story-driven work that captures its culture, landscapes, and everyday life, making these prints meaningful cultural souvenirs.

• Why South Africa: Prints created by South African artists showcase the country’s stories, colors, and traditions.
• Where to Shop: Zeitz MOCAA gift shop, Cape Town; Johannesburg Art Gallery shop; Maboneng street artists.
• Price Range: R300 to R2,000 (₹1,350 to ₹9,000 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: High-quality art paper, artist signatures or stamps, and prints showcasing distinct South African themes or styles.
• Pro Tip: Ask for your prints to be rolled and tube-packed to keep them safe while travelling.

7. South African Wine

South Africa is renowned for its world-class wines, especially from regions like Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Constantia. These bottles make exceptional premium souvenirs, offering rich flavors and award-winning quality you can enjoy long after your trip.

• Why South Africa: The country’s wine regions produce globally awarded wines with unique flavors found nowhere else.
• Where to Shop: Wine Cellar Fine Wine Merchants, wine.co.za, Raka Wine.
• Price Range: R160 to R800 (₹720 to ₹3,600 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: Estate labels, vintage information, and region-specific varietals like Stellenbosch reds or coastal whites.
• Pro Tip: Look out for Chenin Blanc and Pinotage, two of the most iconic South African wine varietals.

Suggested Read: South Africa Visa Rejection for Indian Tourists

8. Shweshwe Fabric

Source

Shweshwe fabric is one of South Africa’s most iconic textiles, known for its vibrant patterns, geometric designs, and deep cultural significance. It’s widely used in traditional clothing and makes a fantastic festive purchase for anyone who loves crafts, sewing, or fashion.

• Why South Africa: Authentic Shweshwe is produced only in South Africa, especially by Da Gama Textiles.
• Where to Shop: Fabrics Africa, Makotis, Da Gama Fabric Store Bellville.
• Price Range: R100 to R400 per meter (₹450 to ₹1,800 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: Original Shweshwe fabric features Da Gama’s signature back-stamp, a slightly stiff texture, and crisp, detailed prints.
• Pro Tip: Always check for Da Gama’s authenticity stamp; it’s the hallmark of genuine Shweshwe fabric.

9. Handmade Leather Goods

Handmade leather goods are a standout purchase in South Africa, known for exceptional craftsmanship, durability, and timeless style. Whether you’re browsing affordable local markets or premium boutiques, you’ll find beautifully made wallets, bags, belts, and accessories that make long-lasting souvenirs.

• Why South Africa: Local artisans offer durable, high-quality leather goods crafted with precision and tradition.
• Where to Shop: Burgundy Collective HQ, Hunt Africa Custom Leather, Calabash Leather Goods.
• Price Range: R400 to R2,400 (₹1,800 to ₹10,800 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: Look for full-grain leather, clean hand-stitched seams, natural texture variations, and a rich leather aroma.
• Pro Tip: Opt for full-grain leather; it ages beautifully and lasts the longest.

10. Semi-Precious Gemstones

Source

Semi-precious gemstones are among the most iconic items to purchase in South Africa, with the country known for producing beautiful amethyst, tiger’s eye, jasper, and many other natural stones. These gems make stunning souvenirs that are affordable, meaningful, and uniquely African.

• Why South Africa: The country’s natural gemstone reserves make it a top source for original and ethically sourced stones.
• Where to Shop: Gemgold Gemstones, African Gems and Minerals Montague Gardens, Afrogem.
• Price Range: R100 to R2,000 (₹450 to ₹9,000 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: Natural color variations, smooth polished surfaces, visible mineral patterns, and weighty feel compared to synthetics.
• Pro Tip: Tiger’s eye is one of the easiest stones to pack for travel; it’s durable, doesn’t chip easily, and looks striking in both raw and polished forms.

Suggested Read:South Africa on a Budget: The Ultimate Travel Guide

11. Wire Art

Wire art is one of the most creative handmade items from South Africa, crafted into everything from animal figurines to bowls and decorative pieces. These artworks highlight the skill and imagination of local artisans, making them fun, affordable, and meaningful souvenirs.

• Why South Africa: Wire art began in South African townships and remains a unique cultural craft of the region.
• Where to Shop: Streetwires Artist Collective, Wire wonders craft.
• Price Range: R100 to R600 (₹450 to ₹2,700 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: Neatly twisted wire, sturdy structure, smooth edges, and vibrant colors when beads or coated wires are used.
• Pro Tip: Opt for coated wire pieces; they’re more durable and maintain their color longer.

12. Amarula Liqueur

Amarula Liqueur is one of South Africa’s most beloved drinks, crafted from the marula fruit and known for its smooth, creamy taste. It’s a must-have unique gift to buy in South Africa, offering a flavor that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

• Why South Africa: Amarula is produced only here using the native marula fruit for its signature creamy taste.
• Where to Shop: Mothercity Liquor, Liquor City Bassonia, Liquor City Jan Smuts.
• Price Range: R160 to R400 (₹720 to ₹1,800 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: Official Amarula branding, marula fruit illustration, and the signature gold elephant emblem on the bottle.
• Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for limited editions; they make special collectible souvenirs.

13. Traditional Zulu Shields (Replicas)

Source

Replica Zulu shields are inspired by historic warrior traditions and make bold, eye-catching wall décor. Lightweight and beautifully crafted, they’re a great cultural souvenir for travelers interested in heritage-inspired art pieces.

• Why South Africa: These replicas are made by artisans who follow real Zulu designs and cultural symbolism.
• Where to Shop: Woza Moya Craft Store, Nela Kahle Art and Crafts, I Heart Market.
• Price Range: R300 to R1,200 (₹1,350 to ₹5,400 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: Hand-painted patterns, faux-hide or leather finishes, and lightweight wooden frames designed for display.
• Pro Tip: Always choose replica versions; they’re safer for export and perfect for those interested in antique-style shopping in South Africa without legal complications.

14. Ndebele Art & Crafts

Ndebele arts and crafts are famous for their bold geometric patterns and vibrant colors, making them some of the most eye-catching local crafts in South Africa. From murals and paintings to beadwork and decorative items, these pieces beautifully represent Ndebele cultural identity.

• Why South Africa: The bold geometric Ndebele designs originate from South African communities known for this art style.
• Where to Shop: Ndebele cultural villages, Craft markets in Pretoria, Rosebank Art & Craft Market
• Price Range: R200 to R1,600 (₹900 to ₹7,200 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: Hand-painted details, visible brushstrokes, and traditional geometric motifs in bright contrasting colors.
• Pro Tip: Always choose hand-painted or handcrafted pieces; machine-printed designs are far less valuable and lack cultural authenticity.

15. Beaded Home Décor

Source

Beaded home décor pieces are vibrant, colorful, and full of personality, a beautiful way to bring a touch of South African craftsmanship into your home. From coasters and placemats to wall hangings and bowls, they make festive and meaningful décor gifts.

• Why South Africa: South African bead artists craft vibrant décor inspired by native patterns and cultural artistry.
• Where to Shop:Beads For Africa, Bali Trading, Earth Africa Curio.
• Price Range: R200 to R800 (₹900 to ₹3,600 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: Look for tightly hand-woven beads, consistent patterns, smooth finishes, and pieces made with glass rather than plastic beads.
• Pro Tip: Multicolored pieces complement most modern interiors.

16. Ceramic Pottery

Source

Ceramic pottery in South Africa is known for its earthy tones, hand-painted designs, and expressive artistic style. Whether from Cape Town studios or KwaZulu-Natal workshops, these pieces beautifully reflect the country’s cultural heritage and make standout decorative souvenirs.

• Why South Africa: Local potters use regional clay and hand-painted designs influenced by South African heritage.

• Where to Shop: Dragana Jevtovic Ceramics Cape Town, Pottery JunXion, Liebermann Pottery.

• Price Range: R300 to R1,400 (₹1,350 to ₹6,300 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: Hand-painted motifs, slight shape variations, textured glazes, and maker’s marks at the base.
• Pro Tip: Choose smaller bowls, cups, or trinket dishes; they’re easier to pack and less likely to break in transit.

17. South African Spices

South African spice blends are packed with flavor and make some of the best edible souvenirs to bring home. From fiery peri-peri and smoky braai seasonings to aromatic Cape Malay curries, these spices capture the essence of South African cuisine.

• Why South Africa: Signature blends like braai and Cape Malay masala originated here, offering authentic local flavor.

• Where to Shop:Africa Spice, The Spice Factory, Africa Spice Mart.

• Price Range: R60 to R200 (₹270 to ₹900 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: Fresh aroma, vibrant colors, and clearly labelled blends such as braai mix, peri-peri, or Cape Malay masala.
• Pro Tip: Try Cape Malay masalas; they’re fragrant, flavorful, and add an authentic South African twist to home cooking.

18. Safari-Themed Collectibles

Safari-themed collectibles are fun, lightweight, and easy-to-pack souvenirs that travelers love. From mini animal figurines to keychains and magnets, these pieces capture the charm of South Africa’s wildlife and make great affordable gifts.

• Why South Africa: The country’s wildlife and Big Five legacy inspire genuine safari-themed souvenirs found only here.
• Where to Shop: Wild Thing Africa, V&A Waterfront souvenir shops, Johannesburg airport stores
• Price Range: R40 to R200 (₹180 to ₹900 approx.).
• Authenticity Identification: Detailed animal designs, durable resin or wood material, and motifs inspired by the Big Five.
• Pro Tip: Choose Big Five–inspired figurines; they’re the most popular and instantly recognizable as South African souvenirs.

FAQs

What are the best things to buy in South Africa?

The best things to buy in South Africa include Zulu beadwork, Rooibos tea, biltong, African handmade jewelry, carved wooden sculptures, Ndebele art, Shweshwe fabric, South African wine, and Amarula liqueur. These unique items showcase South Africa’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant craftsmanship, and local traditions.

Where are the best places to shop in South Africa?

Top shopping destinations in South Africa include Greenmarket Square in Cape Town, Rosebank Art & Craft Market in Johannesburg, Victoria Street Market in Durban, and the V&A Waterfront. These markets and locations offer a mix of authentic local crafts, traditional souvenirs, and cultural artworks.

What food items should I bring back from South Africa?

Must-try food souvenirs from South Africa include biltong (traditional jerky), rooibos tea, Cape Malay spices, Amarula liqueur, and fynbos honey. These edible gifts capture the authentic flavors of South African cuisine and make great gifts for friends and family.

Is shopping in South Africa expensive?

Shopping in South Africa offers options for every budget. Markets like Greenmarket Square and Rosebank Art & Craft Market are affordable, while V&A Waterfront and other high-end shopping districts offer luxury boutiques. There’s a wide variety of local goods that cater to both budget-conscious and luxury shoppers.

What souvenirs should I avoid?

Avoid purchasing illegal wildlife products, such as ivory or items made from endangered species. Always ensure that the souvenirs you buy are ethically sourced, with the correct certifications or permits if required. Stick to locally made goods to support South African artisans and ethical trade practices.