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Safari encounters with the “Big Five” on the savannah… Stunning views of the roaring white waters of Victoria Falls… Following the coast of South Africa and visiting vineyards… We’d understand if shopping isn’t the first thing on your mind when dreaming up an African adventure. No worries, you can focus on remembering your binoculars and camera for all the incredible wildlife you’ll be seeing, and we’ll give you a list of the perfect gifts to look for in between game drives.
You’ll find that as you prepare to take your trip of a lifetime to Africa, the people close to you will share in your excitement, eager to hear all about it upon your return. So, wouldn’t it be nice to show them you were thinking of them along the way with some special souvenirs from the plains of Africa?
Whether you’re picking out gifts for an animal lover or someone with a passion for the arts, your safari trip promises some great gift shopping opportunities. We asked our experts in travel to Africa for some of the most popular souvenirs travelers find on their safari adventures.
Handcrafted Items
From animal lovers to anyone who likes collecting knickknacks from around the world, look for handcrafted items and curios between your safaris. Intricately carved wooden animals, masks, and figurines are popular. These items often reflect the local wildlife and cultural heritage.
Wood Carved Animal Figurines
Wooden animal figurines are not just souvenirs; they’re pieces of art that carry the spirit and stories of Africa. The figurines are meticulously hand-carved by skilled artisans. Each piece is unique, with intricate details that capture the essence of the animals they represent. A wooden elephant, symbolizing strength and wisdom, or a lion, representing courage and royalty, would certainly make a special gift.
Wooden Bowls
A handcrafted wooden bowl can be both a practical gift and a work of art to display. Bowls are made from various types of wood, including African mahogany, teak, ebony, and olive wood, with unique textures and colors adding to the distinctiveness of each bowl.
Jewelry
Look for jewelry made from local materials like beads, stones, and metals. Maasai beadwork from Kenya and Tanzania is particularly famous. In the Maasai culture, the beadwork an individual wears are a mark of their age and social status. The colors of the beads hold meaning, as well. For example, white represents health, peace, and purity; blue represents energy and the sky; and red represents blood, unity, and bravery.
African Paintings
For someone who loves to display art in their home, a picture is perfect. Many local artists create stunning works depicting African landscapes, wildlife, and daily life. This can be a great way to bring a piece of Africa’s beauty back home to share with loved ones.
Stylish Textiles
The continent of Africa is rich in cultural diversity, and this is reflected in beautiful clothing and textiles. You’ll find a vibrant array of fabrics and garments that tell stories of tradition, artistry, and community.
Dyed and Printed Fabrics
Every region has its own distinctive styles and methods of creating beautiful fabrics. Across Kenya and Tanzania, you can find the Maasai Shuka, a traditional garment worn by the Maasai people. And in South Africa, you can find shweshwe, a traditional dyed and printed fabric known for intricate geometric patterns and indigo color.
Some may wish to buy these gorgeous textiles by the yard. On occasion, we see travelers on tour able to place orders with local artisans to have garments made overnight from their choice of fabrics – what a truly one-of-a-kind gift or keepsake!
Madiba Shirts
Another iconic piece of clothing you’ll see in South Africa is the Madiba shirt, also referred to as the Mandela shirt. Frequently worn by Nelson Mandela, these vibrant, bold-patterned shirts became emblematic of freedom, resilience, and the rich cultural heritage of South Africa. As a souvenir and gift, it’s a way to celebrate Mandela’s legacy and spirit of South Africa.
Recycled Treasures
Some people are tricky to shop for, but in your African safari travels, you can find something unique enough for them. For a truly stand-out gift, look for creative and resourceful art and goods made from recycled materials.
Maasai Tire Sandals
Known as Maasai sandals, these are unique, eco-friendly shoes crafted by the Maasai people of Kenya, made from recycled car tires. Often combined with beadwork and leather, the sandals make a unique gift that reflects the culture and ingenuity of the Maasai people.
Recycled Sculptures
You may also come across charming souvenirs made from scrap metal and recycled materials – which can take the form of anything from animals or motorbikes. Small handmade sculptures such as these are easy to fit into your suitcase and make a special gift with its own story to tell.
Sips and Sounds
If your travels bring you to South Africa, here are some ideas for gifts you can share and even recreate moments from your experiences upon your return.
South African Wines
South Africa is famous for its wines. If wine tastings in the regions of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are part of your adventure, consider taking home a bottle or two of Pinotage or Chenin Blanc – to be shared and paired with your travel stories!
Vuvuzela
This incredibly loud instrument is synonymous with big sporting events in South Africa. The horn caught the world’s attention during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, as the stadium was filled with the persistent sound. A vuvuzela is the ideal souvenir for that friend who’ll love to stand out in the crowd at the next home game.
As you prepare for a trip to remember on an African safari, know you’ll have many opportunities to connect with the culture and buy locally made keepsakes. Fill your camera roll and your suitcase as you bring back mementos to share your unforgettable experiences with friends and loved ones.
