Victoria Falls Craft Market
A vibrant marketplace offering authentic Zimbabwean crafts, where bargaining is part of the cultural experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, cooler temps
Victoria Falls Craft Market
Best Time
Less crowded, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant marketplace offering authentic Zimbabwean crafts, where bargaining is part of the cultural experience.
"Interesting place, handmade product, negotiate about price... :)"
🎯 Bargain Hard!
Vendors expect negotiation. Start lower than you're willing to pay and meet in the middle.
💰 Cash is King
While some vendors might accept cards, cash is preferred and can help with bargaining.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Handmade Crafts
Throughout the market
Discover unique, handcrafted souvenirs from local artisans. Perfect for finding authentic gifts and mementos.
Vibrant Atmosphere
Main market area
Immerse yourself in the lively energy of the market, filled with local culture and friendly chatter.
Cultural Immersion
Market stalls
Engage with local vendors and learn about their crafts, offering a glimpse into Zimbabwean culture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bargaining is Key
Navigating the Stalls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bargain Hard!
Vendors expect negotiation. Start lower than you're willing to pay and meet in the middle.
💰 Cash is King
While some vendors might accept cards, cash is preferred and can help with bargaining.
🚶♀️ Stay Polite
Be firm but friendly when negotiating. A smile goes a long way!
🛍️ Look for Quality
Inspect items carefully for craftsmanship before buying.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bargain Hard!
Vendors expect negotiation. Start lower than you're willing to pay and meet in the middle.
💰 Cash is King
While some vendors might accept cards, cash is preferred and can help with bargaining.
🚶♀️ Stay Polite
Be firm but friendly when negotiating. A smile goes a long way!
🛍️ Look for Quality
Inspect items carefully for craftsmanship before buying.
📸 Respectful Photos
Always ask permission before taking photos of vendors or their stalls.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Victoria Falls Craft Market to be an interesting place with unique handmade products, offering a glimpse into local culture. However, many report that vendors can be overly pushy and start with very high prices, requiring significant bargaining to achieve a fair deal.
"Very traumatizing place to shop... Every vender said they are going to give me a "good price" but as a tourist, I always have to bargain hard to get a nearly fair price (I know it's not fair cause I was with a local resident). I understand that the venders need to make a living but ripping off tourists is really not the right way to go... I just hope they can be more genuine."
Wanderwise
"Intersting place, handmade product, nogotiate about price... :)"
Dejan Jevtic
"It's a hit"
Nchimunya Sinachikupo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The craft market is conveniently located near the main entrance to Victoria Falls National Park in both Zimbabwe and Zambia. Many hotels and lodges offer shuttle services or can arrange taxis. It's also easily accessible on foot if you're staying nearby.
Yes, the craft market is typically situated close to the main viewpoints of Victoria Falls, making it a convenient stop after viewing the falls.
Local minibuses and taxis are available in Victoria Falls town and can take you to the market. Negotiate fares beforehand.
Absolutely! The market is a popular stop for day-trippers and can easily be incorporated into a visit to Victoria Falls.
From Livingstone, you can take a taxi or a shared minibus across the border to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, where the market is located.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Victoria Falls Craft Market itself is generally free. However, you will need a park entry fee if you plan to visit the Victoria Falls rainforest viewpoints.
The market typically operates daily from morning until late afternoon or early evening, though hours can vary. It's best to check locally upon arrival.
The market itself does not have an admission fee. The fees are associated with entering the national park to see the falls.
No, tickets for Victoria Falls National Park must be purchased at the official park entrance gates, not at the craft market.
Yes, many tour operators include a visit to the craft market as part of their Victoria Falls tours. 
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
You'll find a wide array of handmade items, including wooden carvings, stone sculptures, beaded jewelry, textiles, paintings, and local crafts.
Prices vary greatly. A fridge magnet might start around $15 USD, but with bargaining, you can get much better deals. Always negotiate!
The items are generally authentic handmade crafts. The main concern is price negotiation, as vendors often start high for tourists.
Start by offering about 30-50% of the initial asking price and work your way up. Be polite but firm. Locals can help gauge fair prices.
While some vendors might accept cards, it's highly recommended to carry U.S. dollars or local currency in cash for easier transactions and better bargaining power.
📸 📸 Photography
It's always best to ask for permission before taking photos of vendors or their stalls. Some may appreciate it, while others might prefer not to be photographed or may ask for a small fee.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, which can be ideal for capturing the vibrant colors of the crafts and the lively market atmosphere.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photographing the crafts themselves, but always be mindful and respectful of the people.
The craft market is usually located some distance from the main falls viewpoints, so you won't get direct views of the falls from within the market itself.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both details and wider market scenes. A prime lens can also be good for portraits if you get permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Focus on smaller, easily transportable items like beaded bracelets or small wooden animals. Keep negotiations light and fun, turning it into a game for older children. Ensure you have plenty of water and snacks, as the market can get warm and busy.
💰 Budget Travelers
Tip: Carry U.S. dollars in smaller denominations. Don't be afraid to walk away if the price isn't right; sometimes this prompts a better offer. Compare prices across different stalls before committing to a purchase.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Negotiation
Be prepared to haggle. Don't be shy! Start by offering a price much lower than what you're willing to pay, perhaps around 30-50% of the initial quote. Vendors will counter, and you'll meet somewhere in the middle. A friendly demeanor and a smile can go a long way in making the negotiation process enjoyable for both parties.
Key takeaway: While some find the persistent sales tactics 'traumatizing' or 'annoying,' viewing it as a cultural interaction and mastering the art of negotiation can turn a potentially stressful experience into a rewarding one.
Discovering Authentic Crafts
Many items are crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations, offering a genuine piece of local culture.Look out for unique beaded jewelry, often made with intricate patterns and vibrant colors. Stone sculptures, particularly those carved from soapstone, are also popular and showcase impressive detail.
Beyond decorative items, you might also find practical crafts like woven baskets and pottery. When selecting your souvenirs, take the time to appreciate the craftsmanship. Inspect the details, the finishing, and the materials used. While bargaining is expected, remember that you are supporting local artisans and their livelihoods.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit