Shop Like an Ethiopian– Four Places to Shop in Addis Ababa

It’s close to impossible that you travel to a country and not bring back some of its souvenirs. Even if it’s a remote place like Timbuktu, you always bring something to keep as a memory for the rest of your life. C'mon, you've got to agree that shopping is one of the best part of travelling. This article will tell you all about shopping in Africa's hidden gems, Ethiopia. For brevity, this article will only discuss shopping in its capital, the lively Addis Ababa.

Of Bargain and Good Shopping Items in Addis

If your currency is higher than that of Ethiopian Birr, then you will undoubtedly enjoy shopping because you'll find almost everything cheap. Nevertheless, bargain works a lot in Addis Ababa, you can get as much as 50% (or maybe more) of the price if you bargain hard (but politely) with the shopkeeper. If they refuse, try to get out of the shop, they will most likely call you back. The best shopping items in Ethiopia are their locally made souvenirs because they are very exquisite and they make good decoration pieces.

Other good shopping items include Ethiopian coffee beans, wood carved paintings, metal work etc. One thing to remember is that if you buy antique stuff from Ethiopia, be sure to get a clearance certificate from the shop vendor so that they don’t suspect you for smuggling of Ethiopian heritage items.



Four Places to Shop in Addis Ababa

1. Dembel City Center

Dembel City Center is very pPopular because of its nice location. Dembel City Center is home to all kinds of items you would want to buy on a shopping spree.

2. Shomata

If you are looking for native clothing, then Shomata is the place for you. It is only a clothing mall, so you can easily search for clothes and other clothing basics and accessories. The good part is that you can bargain hard and get a good deal from the shopkeeper.

3. Harar's Town Market

Interested in leather crafts? Then hit for Harar's town market. Here you'll find ebony and leather cloth paintings. There are also a lot of original African spices which you won’t find anywhere in the city.

4. Merkato Market

This is the largest market in Ethiopia and considered as one of the largest in the entire Africa. You'll find a lot of foreign brands and all the local stuff as well. It is one of the best tourist shopping destinations in Addis Ababa. You can find items such as agricultural products, coffee, clothes, furniture, shoes, jewelry, animals and others. The Merkato Market is not just popular amongst locals but tourists love it as well.

Have you gone shopping in Addis Ababa? Feel free to share your tips and recommendations.

Photo Credits (Flickr Creative Commons): Market by aleutia/