If you’re the kind of traveller who returns home with a bag full of handmade mugs, woven baskets, and stories from the people who made them, this one’s for you. From coastal towns to buzzing city centres, South Africa’s craft markets are brimming with one-of-a-kind souvenirs that support local talent and traditions. Here’s your guide to the best spots to shop like a local.
Neighbourgoods Market – Cape Town
Picture/Cape Tourism
Why go: A local icon where creatives and foodies collide. You’ll find handmade leather bags, art prints, ceramics, and stylish Afro-centric decor.
Top Tip: Get there by 10AM to beat the brunch crowd and snag one-of-a-kind ceramics before they sell out.
Website: Neighboursgood Market
Bay Harbour Market – Hout Bay
Picture/Cape Tourism
Why go: This weekend market oozes coastal cool. Think driftwood art, beaded jewellery, tie-dye threads and seaside snacks, all under one vibey roof.
Top Tip: Hang around for the late afternoon live sets – many vendors offer discounts just before closing.
Website: Bay Harbour
I Heart Market – Durban
Picture/Durban Tourism
Why go: A monthly celebration of Durban’s design scene. Expect bold fabrics, cheerful illustrations, and ethical brands.
Top Tip: Bring cash — some smaller vendors may not have card facilities, and nearby ATMs can run dry.
Website: I Heart Market
Shongweni Farmers & Craft Market – KZN Midlands
Picture/1000 Hills Tourism
Why go: Laid-back and full of heart, this is where Zulu heritage meets countryside living. Find wooden carvings, woven goods, and beadwork treasures.
Top Tip: Pack a cooler box — you’ll want to take home farm cheeses and baked goods alongside your crafts.
Website: Shongweni Market
The Linden Market – Johannesburg
Picture/The Linden Market
Why go: A seasonal market that celebrates local artisans, designers, and food vendors. Set in the picturesque botanical gardens, it offers a relaxed environment to shop for unique handmade goods.
Top Tip: Check their social media for event dates and themes to plan your visit around special editions featuring live music and workshops.
Website: The Linden Market
Bryanston Organic & Natural Market – Johannesburg
Picture/Joburg.co.za
Why go: Not your average market — this one is about conscious living. Crafts include hand-dipped candles, ceramic incense holders, kids’ wooden toys, and upcycled fashion.
Top Tip: Visit on a Thursday or Saturday morning and stay for a herbal tea workshop or live harp music under the trees.
Website: Bryanston Market
ALSO READ: Famous streets in South Africa worth visiting
Hazel Food Market – Pretoria
Picture/Where To Stay
Why go: Small but mighty. Alongside gourmet stalls, you’ll find pop-up tables with hand-stitched accessories, natural skincare, and tiny treasures.
Top Tip: Come hungry — the food stalls are as memorable as the handmade gifts, and often double up as picnic inspiration.
Website: Facebook
Root 44 Market – Stellenbosch
Picture/Root44
Why go: A family-friendly favourite that blends shopping with sipping. Expect artisanal notebooks, repurposed glassware, and live woodcarving.
Top Tip: Grab a glass of local wine and browse slowly — many artisans do live demos of their craft if you linger.
Website: Root44
Outeniqua Family Market– George, Garden Route
Picture/Outeniqua Family Market
Why go: A Garden Route go-to with over 150 stalls and a festive vibe. Crafts include mosaic art, leather sandals, hand-sewn dolls and more.
Top Tip: Arrive early for shaded parking and first dibs on rustic garden furniture and handmade kiddies’ toys.
Website: Outeniqua Family Market
Sedgefield Wild Oats Community Market – Garden Route
Picture/Tripadvisor
Why go: It’s all about slow living here — locally made candles, knitted clothing, honey, and handmade eco-products.
Top Tip: It’s a short drive from some epic viewpoints — plan a post-market picnic at Gericke’s Point or Myoli Beach.
Website: Wild Oats Market
Markets aren’t just places to shop — they’re where stories live. Each handcrafted item is a conversation starter, a cultural snapshot, and a way to take a piece of South Africa home with you.
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