The shopping scene in this country is very similar to that in neighboring African countries. Local handicrafts make for great souvenirs as traditional artisans are very great at basketwork, fabric weaving, and mask making.
Great buys can be found in small curio markets in town, particularly Bujumbura’s Av de Stade, a street lined with souvenir malls. Shopping should be an integral part of your journey of Burundi, especially if you are fond of collecting art and crafts.
Chaussee Prince Louis Rwagazore, also in the capital, is another interesting place to visit. This small marketplace is across from the iconic Library St Paul. Those into classic and authentic African masks should not miss the main craft market here.
Visit the store run by Katenta Etienne, a talented local and member of the Association Artistes et Vendeurs des Objets d’ Art, who sells beautifully made cultural souvenirs, such as face masks inspired by the country’s tribal culture.
There are many interesting local crafts stores outside the capital, particularly in Gitega, where the colorful fabric district is located. You’ll see several shops and tailors that sell all kinds of quality fabrics with unique patterns and designs.
For a small fee, the tailors are willing to sew your fabric into any garment of your own choice. Everything, from clothes to sling bags and other kinds of products, are available in most shopping districts. Here are some places you can do your shopping in Burundi:
Escale du Bien Alimentation.
The first on the left after Librarie St Paul around Ave Rwagasore in the capital. Good and fresh vegetables are stocked twice a week. The staff here is very friendly and it has almost what all the other shops have.
The products you will find include good quality local eggs, standard brown bread and cheese, and sausages.
Belladone.
They have real eggs with yellow yolks, not the alien white yolk eggs. They have vegetables, but not the same variety as Au Bon Prix. This is a good place where to get white wine, has a bakery next door, and is usually quite crowded.
Dimitri.
This is the most expensive supermarket in Burundi. This is a large shop with all sorts of items, pates and cheese imported from Europe, metal forks, household items, and decent wines.
Indian shop near Peace House and stadium.
The most common commodities here are household items like pillows, food mixers, cutlery, etc. They also have some food items that come in from Nairobi such as some spices, sauces, etc.
When shopping in the local markets, feel free to bargain. If you want to get an idea of how much you should be paying, visit the state-run craft markets, which have steady rates. Shops here are mostly open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m on weekdays.
"I enjoy shopping and I found it affordable but some of the clothes are definitely not of the highest quality." - Hassan from Turkey
