Where is The Maasai Market in Nairobi? – Schedule and Locations for 2024
The Maasai market in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, has become a popular name throughout East Africa, especially for tourists. The market sells a wide range of African antiques and has become a convergence zone for locals and tourists searching for authentic African artisan products.
When traveling, we often look for affordable, gorgeous, colorful souvenirs to take home. Maasai Market is the best place to shop for your souvenirs while on your safari or beach holiday in Kenya. It is an open-air market with a broad selection of products to shop for, including African pots and pans, artwork, jewelry, shoes, purses, garments, and utensils.
The Maasai Market is named after the Maasai people, one of the most famous tribes in Kenya.
Where is the Maasai Market Today in Nairobi?
Which day is Maasai Market in Nairobi
The Maasai Market rotates around the city each day of the week. However, the most popular Maasai Market among many locals is located in the city behind the Hilton Hotel at the High Court parking lot. It is always open on Saturdays.
If Saturdays are not convenient for you, you can visit the Maasai market on the other days of the week in different locations. It’s less busy on the weekdays and gives you ample time to window shop for the best products you might want.
Which day is Maasai Market in Nairobi
The market moves around the city of Nairobi on different days of the week, typically operating from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm at each location every day. So which day is the Maasai market in Nairobi? See below the best days and locations to visit the Market in Nairobi:-
Masai Market on Tuesday: Kijabe Street
Westgate Shopping Mall in Westlands (the upper car park) relocated to Kijabe Street opposite the Norfolk Hotel. Opens from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm. On Tuesdays, the Maasai Market finds its home at Westgate Shopping Mall. However, please note that the market has relocated to Kijabe Street, just opposite the Norfolk Hotel.
Masai Market on Wednesday: Capital Centre Mombasa Road
Capital Centre on Mombasa Road near the airport along Mombasa Road. Opens from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm. For those looking to visit the Maasai Market on Wednesdays, head to the Capital Centre located on Mombasa Road near the airport.
Masai Market on Thursday: Nakumatt Junction
Nakumatt Junction Shopping Mall on Ngong Road which Opens from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm. The Maasai Market shops on Thursdays are at Nakumatt Junction Shopping Mall along Ngong Road on your way to Karen.
Masai Market on Friday: Village Market
Village Market in Gigiri (the upper car park) Kiambu Road, it Opens from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm. The market is located on the upper parking that is opened to be the Masai market location on Friday.
Masai Market on Saturday: Supreme Court Parking (High Court)
The Supreme Court parking lot in the city center (behind the Hilton and International Life House) Opens from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm. The location of Maasai Market is in the CBD at the Supreme Court located behind the Hilton Hotel along City Hall Way.
Masai Market on Sunday: Yaya Centre
Yaya Centre in Hurlingham which Opens from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm. The Maasai Market opens up at Yaya Centre on Sundays
The Maasai market operates from about 8.00 am to 6.00 pm every day except Mondays as it is closed. Any other day of the week is very convenient to go and buy souvenirs and gifts as well in the different locations of the Maasai Market.
What to Buy at the Maasai Market in Nairobi?
Artwork and Carvings
The Maasai market is always full of great art, and most of it has an African feel. You can get some decent items for a reasonable price in the market, but if you want something more distinctive, you can visit one of Nairobi’s art galleries. The market also has a good selection of wooden carvings, bowls, baskets, and dolls to bring Kenyan culture into your home.
Maasai blankets
Masai blankets, also known as Maasai Shukas or Kikois, come in various vibrant colors. The shukas, which carry the Maasai culture, are one of the most incredible ways to remember your trip to Kenya. They can also be used as a bed cover, a picnic blanket, or an extra blanket on a cold day.
Jewelry
The Maasai market is famous for its variety of jewelry, from earrings to bracelets and necklaces, all of which are usually vibrant and come in various colors. You may discover some great and unique products for a reasonable price here. Popular pieces are bracelets adorned with beads in Kenya’s official colors
Maasai Sandals
The Maasai market is brimming with Maasai leather and beaded sandals. They come in various designs and colors, so take your time looking for a pair you like. These sandals are quality and are perfect for a beach holiday. They are a must-have.
Tips for visiting the Masai Market in Nairobi
Maasai Market Nairobi products and Items to buy
Just like any other market, the Maasai Market might be overwhelming. Unfortunately, it can be a little too much with the hordes of customers, vendors calling you from every corner, and hawkers stopping you from checking out what they have to sell. Here are some tips to help in your visit to the Maasai market.
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Bargaining and language
Bargaining is a fun part of the Maasai market shopping experience, but if you are not a local, you should expect to be charged a much higher price and be prepared to bargain firmly and respectfully. But, again, knowing a little Swahili will help you come out as someone who knows what they’re talking about and does not want to be taken advantage of.
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Have local currency
When shopping in any city worldwide, changing your money to the local currency is essential. Additionally, it will also be cheaper when you shop using Kenyan currency. There are numerous foreign exchange bureaus in the city center, but you may also exchange money at the airport or any of the city’s banks.
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Avoid crowded market days.
Shopping can be stressful when too many people are jammed into the market’s tight alleys. On crowded market days, it is tough to navigate, and you can miss out on some of the most attractive items. As a result, if you have the option, go shopping in the evening or inquire which day and place are less busy to ensure a pleasant shopping experience.
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Explore as many vendors as possible.
The Maasai market has many vendors, and If one is not careful, one may buy Everything from one person. It is not a wrong decision to buy all your items from one vendor; however, in that process, you miss out on the many options available from other vendors. The Maasai market is all about exploring to get your unique souvenir to take home. We advise you to walk around the market to check what is available and then buy what you like. It is also essential to shop with a local; it can be your tour guide or a Kenyan friend to help you navigate the market.
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Be mindful of your surroundings
It is always essential to be aware of your surroundings in any place you visit. For example, the Maasai market may have pickpockets like any other market. Therefore, always hold your purse/bag safely as you walk around the market. Additionally, do not go around flashing costly jewelry or even handbags, as you may draw the wrong attention.
Pros and Cons of The Maasai Market in Nairobi
Pros Of The Nairobi Maasai Market.
- It is easily accessible from the Nairobi CBD in all the Locations on various days.
- You will get Souvenirs, the best gifts, or something unique to remind you of Kenya.
- If you know the game of haggling you will get items at good prices than in curio shops.
- The Market gives you an African feeling just by being in the Market.
- The Nairobi Maasai Market will sharpen your social skills.
- Maasai Market Location in Nairobi is nomad, and you only need to time your nearest location.
Cons Of The Nairobi Maasai Market
- Well, you may reconsider going to this Market if you don’t like being pestered to buy things. You are most likely to have people (brokers) surrounding you and not give you enough space to breathe.
- If you are not good at haggling, you may buy items at ridiculous prices especially if you look like a Tourist.
- You will need a lot of patience and calmness to manage the market.
- Not quite ideal to go with children.
- Maasai Market Location in Nairobi is nomad, and you may not keep track of the specific location on a particular day.
- Advisable to go with a local city guide
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This is WRONG the Maasai Market is no longer at Westgate at all. I’m currently standing in Westgate mall on Tuesday. The market is NOT here.
Thank you PJ. From our post, on Monday the Masai market is indicated that it relocated to Kijabe street from Westgate. Please check. Thank you for reading.