
Shongweni Farmers Market
A vibrant Saturday market offering artisanal food, unique crafts, and family fun amidst scenic KwaZulu-Natal hills.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds

Shongweni Farmers Market
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant Saturday market offering artisanal food, unique crafts, and family fun amidst scenic KwaZulu-Natal hills.
"This market dishes up an eclectic spread of culinary delights and handcrafted treasures with a lively, laid-back vibe."

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Aim for 6:30 AM to secure good parking and seating, especially on busy weekends. :car:
💧 Stay Hydrated!
It gets very hot, especially in summer. Bring water bottles or buy fresh juices. :droplet:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Artisanal Food Stalls
Throughout the market
From gourmet burgers and Polish sausages to fresh juices and homemade pumpkin bread, indulge in a culinary adventure.

Handcrafted Treasures
Craft and clothing stalls
Discover unique fashion, eye-catching artwork, and handmade gems you won't find anywhere else.

Kid-Friendly Fun
Designated play area
A huge play area overlooking a waterfall ensures little ones are entertained while you shop and dine.

Scenic Waterfall Views
Near the play area
Enjoy a refreshing hike with great views of the waterfall, a perfect escape from the market buzz.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Aim for 6:30 AM to secure good parking and seating, especially on busy weekends.
:car:💧 Stay Hydrated!
It gets very hot, especially in summer. Bring water bottles or buy fresh juices.
:droplet:🛍️ Bring Your Own Bags
Support sustainability by bringing reusable shopping bags for your market haul. :shopping_bags:
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
Often, a live band adds to the market's lively and soulful soundtrack.
:musical_note:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Aim for 6:30 AM to secure good parking and seating, especially on busy weekends.
:car:💧 Stay Hydrated!
It gets very hot, especially in summer. Bring water bottles or buy fresh juices.
:droplet:🛍️ Bring Your Own Bags
Support sustainability by bringing reusable shopping bags for your market haul. :shopping_bags:
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
Often, a live band adds to the market's lively and soulful soundtrack.
:musical_note:💰 Cash for Small Vendors
While many vendors accept cards, having some cash can be handy for smaller stalls. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shongweni Farmers Market is widely praised as a top-tier market in KZN, offering a vibrant mix of quality food, unique crafts, and a fantastic family atmosphere. Visitors highlight the diverse stalls, the lively vibe, and the beautiful natural setting. While it can get very hot and crowded, especially on busy weekends, the overall experience is consistently described as enjoyable and worthwhile.
"Tucked in the scenic hills just outside Durban, Shongweni Farmers Market is more than just a weekend outing,it's a full-on experience. With a lively, laid-back vibe perfect for families, this market dishes up an eclectic spread of culinary delights, from juicy burgers and classic boerewors to addictive biltong and local brews.
There are stalls brimming with handcrafted treasures, unique fashion finds, and eye catching artwork. And while you feast and browse, a live band keeps the energy buzzing, adding that soulful soundtrack to your Saturday morning.
Whether you're craving good food, good vibes, or just a place to soak in KwaZulu-Natal’s local flavor check out Shongweni Farmers Market"
Mike & Bike Adventures
"What a fantastic Food/ clothing/ craft market with a huge play area for kids overlooking the waterfall. Could spend the day here. I bought a very cool hat"
Watchman Nz
"Wow, what amazing experience I had at this beautiful market. I have to give credit to the stall at I12 that sells their products "Mila essentials", their service was outstanding and friendly, they had so much patience and understanding answering all my questions even when i repeated the same question many times over. They helped me determine my type of skin and what would be better to help my skin improve. The products smell and feel great. I have ordered online before today, but they just got me to want more of those products. Thank you to them and their beautiful display and their welcoming personalities. I can see that they are passionate about what they are doing. Please take the time to go pop in and see for yourself, you will not regret it!"
Nikita Meyer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Shongweni Farmers Market is located in the scenic hills outside Durban. Driving is the most common way to get there. From Durban, head north-west towards Hillcrest and then follow signs for Shongweni. The journey typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
Parking is ample, though it can fill up quickly on busy days.Public transport options are limited for reaching Shongweni Farmers Market directly. It's primarily a destination for those with private vehicles. Consider ride-sharing services or arranging a lift if you don't have your own transport.
The most straightforward route from Durban involves taking the N3 highway and then exiting towards Hillcrest. Follow local road signs for the Shongweni Farmers Market.
It's a scenic drive through the KwaZulu-Natal countryside.The drive from central Durban to Shongweni Farmers Market usually takes between 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Allow extra time during peak traffic hours.As you get closer to Shongweni, keep an eye out for local signage directing you to the market. The area is known for its lush greenery and rolling hills.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter the Shongweni Farmers Market. It's free to browse and enjoy the atmosphere.
The market is typically open every Saturday from 7 AM to 1 PM.
However, it's always a good idea to check their social media or website for any seasonal changes or special event hours.Entry to the Shongweni Farmers Market is free. You only pay for the goods and food you purchase from the vendors.
To avoid the biggest crowds and secure good parking, it's recommended to arrive as early as possible, ideally between 6:30 AM and 7 AM.
This also gives you the best selection of fresh produce.While the market runs weekly, keep an eye out for special events like Christmas markets or seasonal celebrations.
These might have slightly different hours or a wider variety of festive goods.🎫 🛍️ Onsite Experience
You'll find a diverse range of stalls, including fresh produce, artisanal foods, baked goods, clothing, handmade crafts, artwork, and more.
It's a great place to discover local talent and unique items.Absolutely! There's a large play area for children overlooking a waterfall, making it a fantastic family outing.
Face painting and rides are often available.While not explicitly stated in all sources, many farmers markets are dog-friendly. It's best to confirm directly with the market organizers or observe other visitors with pets.
The market has a lively, laid-back vibe with a strong sense of community spirit.
Live music often adds to the buzzing atmosphere.Yes, the market is renowned for its handmade crafts and artisanal products. You can find one-of-a-kind items that reflect local creativity.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
The food selection is extensive, featuring everything from gourmet burgers and Polish sausages to fresh juices, homemade breads, and Filipino lumpia.
You can also find biltong and local brews.While many stalls focus on meat products, the variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and juices often provides vegetarian and vegan-friendly choices. It's best to inquire at individual stalls.
Yes, artisanal coffee stalls are a common feature, along with fresh juice vendors offering a variety of flavors.
TikTok creators have highlighted a juice vendor with amazing peach and strawberry apple options,
a Filipino lumpia stall, and a vendor known for Polish sausages. Homemade pumpkin bread is also a popular choice.Prices vary by vendor, but generally, you can expect reasonable market prices for quality food and produce.
Many visitors find it to be good value for the experience.📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant stalls, delicious food, unique crafts, and the lively atmosphere. The scenic hills and waterfall views also offer great photographic potential.
It's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their specific products, especially if they are the focus of your shot.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is welcome. However, professional or commercial photography might require prior arrangement with the market management.
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the market's essence.
The golden hour before closing can also provide beautiful lighting.Drone usage might be restricted due to safety and privacy concerns. It's advisable to check with market management before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the play zone, the market offers a variety of food stalls with kid-friendly options, from juices to baked goods. The overall laid-back vibe makes it a stress-free outing for parents. Arriving early is key to managing parking and avoiding the hottest parts of the day, making the experience more comfortable for everyone.
💰 Budget Travelers
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Culinary Delights of Shongweni
The market emphasizes fresh, local produce, making it a fantastic spot for those seeking wholesome and nutrient-dense options. Many stalls offer prepared foods, perfect for a leisurely Saturday brunch or lunch. The variety ensures that whether you're a dedicated foodie or just looking for a tasty snack, Shongweni delivers. Remember to bring your appetite and an adventurous spirit to explore all the delicious possibilities.
Beyond the main dishes, you'll find artisanal coffee, local brews, and other beverages to complement your meal. The focus on supporting local producers means you're not just enjoying great food, but also contributing to the community's economy.
A Haven for Artisans and Shoppers
The market prides itself on showcasing local talent, offering items that you won't find in mainstream retail stores. Whether you're searching for a distinctive piece of jewelry, a beautifully crafted ceramic, or a unique piece of art, the Shongweni market is the place to discover it. The emphasis on 'handmade and heartfelt' means each purchase supports an individual creator and their craft.
Many visitors rave about the quality and originality of the crafts available. It's an excellent opportunity to engage with the makers, learn about their processes, and find items that truly resonate. The variety ensures there's always something new and exciting to discover with each visit.
Family Fun and Natural Beauty
Beyond the play area, the market is nestled in a beautiful, green environment, offering a refreshing escape. For those seeking a bit more adventure, there's a hiking trail that leads to a great vantage point of the waterfall, providing a scenic backdrop for photos and a chance to connect with nature. The market's location in the lush hills outside Durban contributes to its serene and inviting ambiance.
With activities for all ages, from browsing stalls to enjoying the natural surroundings, Shongweni Farmers Market provides a well-rounded weekend experience for families looking for a fun and engaging outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit