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South Africa is a land of vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and rich traditions that leave a lasting impression on every visitor. Beyond its stunning scenery and deep historical roots, the country offers a wide variety of unique items that reflect its diverse heritage. From intricately handcrafted artefacts to mouthwatering culinary specialities, the things to buy in South Africa offer more than just a souvenir hunt, it’s a cultural experience. Whether you’re wandering through colourful local markets, artisan stalls, or sleek, modern boutiques, you’ll find something meaningful to take home.
10 Things To Buy In South Africa
If you are looking for the perfect keepsake from your South African adventure, these are the 10 best things to buy in South Africa:
1. Biltong And Droëwors
Photo: Olga Ernst / Wikimedia Commons
Biltong and droëwors are must-try South African snacks made by curing meat with vinegar, salt, and spices. Biltong is typically sliced beef, while droëwors is a dried sausage often spiced with coriander. Both are high in protein, full of flavour, and have a long shelf life, making them ideal to bring home as they are really popular in South Africa. You’ll find these at local butcheries, airport stores, and supermarkets, and they’re a hit with meat lovers everywhere.
Average Price: R30 – R70 (approx. $2 – $4) per 100g / ₹170 – ₹340
2. Rooibos Tea
Photo: Mareefe / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Grown exclusively in South Africa’s Cederberg region, Rooibos tea is a naturally caffeine-free herbal drink rich in antioxidants. With its earthy, slightly sweet flavour, it’s known for soothing properties and health benefits like improving digestion and reducing inflammation. Rooibos can be enjoyed hot or cold, plain or blended with other herbs and spices. It’s a perfect gift for tea lovers and health-conscious friends.
Average Price: R25 – R80 (approx. $1.50 – $4.50) per box / ₹127 – ₹ 385
3. Zulu Beadwork
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / Px Here / Image For Representation Only
Zulu beadwork is more than just jewellery, it’s a form of communication, with colours and patterns often symbolizing emotions, relationships, or social status in South African society as it’s a part of their culture. Necklaces, bracelets, and earrings are handmade using traditional techniques passed down through generations. They are available in local craft markets and cultural villages, and buying them supports local women artisans and their communities.
Average Price: R50 – R200 (approx. $3 – $11) depending on complexity / ₹ 255 – ₹940
4. Shweshwe Fabric
Photo: Kiara Coll / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Shweshwe is a traditional South African printed fabric known for its vibrant colours, geometric designs, and cultural significance. Originally dyed indigo, it now comes in many shades and is commonly used for dresses, skirts and home décor. The fabric tells a story and has become a fashionable representation of African identity. It’s light to pack and makes a thoughtful gift for someone who sews or appreciates textiles.
Average Price: R40 – R100 (approx. $2 – $6) per meter / ₹170- ₹512
5. Carved Wooden Sculptures
Photo: Mike van Schoonderwalt / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Wooden sculptures are popular in South Africa, often handcrafted by local artisans who carve wildlife figures, traditional masks, and abstract forms. Each piece is unique and reflects African storytelling, beliefs, or natural beauty in the most stunning way possible. They make striking home décor or collector’s items carefully with their hands. You’ll find these in street stalls, art galleries, and craft fairs.
Average Price: R100 – R1000 (approx. $6 – $55) depending on size and detail/ ₹ 512 – ₹4687
6. Basotho Blankets
Photo: Mel Poole / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Basotho blankets are woven woollen textiles with bold patterns, traditionally worn by the Basotho people of Lesotho and parts of South Africa. More than just a way to stay warm, these blankets are culturally important, and often used in rites of passage and ceremonial gatherings. Their strong symbolism and durability make them a meaningful gift or memento. You can purchase authentic Basotho blankets in specialty shops or markets near the Lesotho border and in Cape Town.
Average Price: R500 – R1500 (approx. $28 – $85) depending on quality and design / ₹ 2386 – ₹ 7242
7. African Pottery And Ceramics
Photo: ROMAN ODINTSOV / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Tradition, along with custom, still endures in South African pottery made by hand from clay using ancient methods by rural craftspeople. Some designs include geometric shapes while others incorporate animals or cultural motifs. South African pottery serves artistic purposes but also useful purposes and comes in the form of decorative vases, mugs, and bowls. While each piece is fired or glazed, the mark and story of the artist are engraved on every item.
Average Price: R150 – R800 (approx. $8 – $45) / ₹ 681 – ₹3835
8. Leather Goods
Photo: Michael Gaylard / Wikimedia Commons
South African leather is reputed for its durability and quality, often derived from local game hides like kudu or ostrich which is showcased through belts, bags, wallets, and sandals. Many items are crafted by hand and are meant to endure and last for a lifetime as they are crafted carefully. They blend style and purpose. There are local leather shops and boutique stores where you can get customized pieces while market stalls sell more affordable versions.
Average Price: R150 – R1500 (approx. $8 – $85) depending on the item and leather type / ₹681- ₹7242
9. Hand-Painted Ostrich Eggs
Photo: KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The hand-painted ostrich eggs depict different stunning works of art which include a detailed depiction of wildlife, modern designs and traditional patterns. The eggs are painted and sculpted by hand after being warmed, scraped and cured. They are used as decorative gifts or pieces of art and are a symbol of fertility and life in African culture. Since they are fragile, most vendors provide padded boxes for travel. You can find them in souvenir shops and ostrich farms, especially in Oudtshoorn, or in artist markets.
Average Price: R200 – R600 (approx. $11 – $33) depending on design and detail / ₹937- ₹2811
10. Beaded Wire Art
Photo: Amani Allan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Beaded wire art is a colourful and playful form of street art in South Africa. Artists use metal wire as the frame and fill it in with vibrant beads to create animals, keychains, flowers and even mini bicycles or cars. Each piece bursts with creativity and colour often reflecting the joyful spirit of local communities. These are lightweight, fun to collect, and easy to pack. You’ll spot them at roadside stalls, craft fairs, and city markets.
Average Price: R30 – R300 (approx. $2 – $17) depending on complexity and size / ₹170 – ₹1448
South Africa isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience you can take home. From handcrafted beadwork and tribal masks, things to buy in South Africa tell a story of culture, history, and local talent. Whether you’re shopping in bustling markets, charming towns or boutique stores, the souvenirs you bring back will hold more than just memories; they’ll carry a piece of South Africa’s heart. Plan your trip with TripXL.
Cover Photo: cottonbro studio / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
