South Africa is home to several exceptional shopping centres that offer a wide range of retail options, entertainment, and dining experiences. Here are some of the best shopping centres in the country.
SANDTON CITY MALL, JOHANNESBURG
Located in the affluent Sandton area, Sandton City Mall is one of Africa’s premier shopping destinations. It features a vast array of local and international brands, high-end boutiques, luxury stores, and a multitude of dining options.
MALL OF AFRICA, MIDRAND, JOHANNESBURG
As one of the largest malls in Africa, Mall of Africa boasts over 300 stores, including both local and international brands. Its contemporary architecture, stylish design, and diverse shopping options make it a must-visit destination.
V&A WATERFRONT, CAPE TOWN
Situated in the heart of Cape Town’s waterfront area, the V&A Waterfront is a vibrant shopping complex with a stunning backdrop of Table Mountain and the harbour. It offers an extensive selection of shops, boutiques, art galleries, craft markets, and excellent restaurants.
CANAL WALK, CAPE TOWN
Located in Century City, Cape Town, Canal Walk is one of the largest shopping centres in Africa. With over 400 stores, a cinema complex, entertainment facilities, and a wide range of eateries, it provides a comprehensive shopping experience for visitors.
GATEWAY THEATRE OF SHOPPING, DURBAN
Gateway Theatre of Shopping is a popular retail and entertainment destination in Durban. It features over 400 stores, including international brands, fashion boutiques, speciality stores, a large entertainment zone, and a variety of dining options.
MENLYN PARK SHOPPING CENTRE, PRETORIA
Menlyn Park is one of the largest malls in South Africa, offering a diverse range of retail outlets, fashion stores, entertainment facilities, and a wide selection of restaurants. It underwent a major expansion, making it a shopping haven for visitors.
EASTGATE SHOPPING CENTRE, JOHANNESBURG
Located in Bedfordview, Eastgate Shopping Centre is one of Johannesburg’s oldest and most iconic shopping centres. It offers an extensive variety of shops, department stores, boutiques, and entertainment options.
GATEWAY MALL, PORT ELIZABETH
Gateway Mall is a popular shopping destination in Port Elizabeth. With a vast selection of stores, including local and international brands, a cinema complex, and various dining options, it caters to the shopping needs of both residents and tourists.
PAVILION SHOPPING CENTRE, DURBAN
Situated in Westville, Durban, the Pavilion Shopping Centre is a well-established mall known for its excellent retail offerings, entertainment options, and food courts. It has a mix of local and international brands, making it a preferred shopping destination.
BROOKLYN MALL, PRETORIA
Brooklyn Mall is a sophisticated shopping center located in the affluent suburb of Brooklyn, Pretoria. It houses a variety of boutique stores, fashion outlets, restaurants, and cafes, offering a more upscale and exclusive shopping experience.
These shopping centres provide an extensive range of options for shoppers, from high-end luxury brands to local boutiques and entertainment facilities. Remember to check the operating hours of the specific malls and stores before visiting, as they may vary.
South Africa is known for its diverse and vibrant tourism industry, offering a wide range of unique and locally made products. Tourist shops across the country provide an opportunity to purchase souvenirs, handicrafts, traditional artefacts, and other items that represent the rich cultural heritage of South Africa. Here are some popular tourist shops in South Africa
AFRICAN CRAFT MARKET, JOHANNESBURG
Located in Rosebank, the African Craft Market is a bustling marketplace that showcases a variety of African arts and crafts. It features a wide selection of handmade items, including wood carvings, beaded jewellery, traditional clothing, and artworks from various African countries.
GREENMARKET SQUARE, CAPE TOWN
Situated in the heart of Cape Town’s city centre, Greenmarket Square is a vibrant open-air market known for its array of African curios and crafts. It offers a mix of stalls selling items such as jewellery, clothing, leather goods, paintings, and souvenirs.
VICTORIA & ALFRED WATERFRONT CRAFT MARKET, CAPE TOWN
Located at the popular V&A Waterfront, this market is a treasure trove of African crafts and curios. Visitors can browse through stalls offering a diverse range of items, including beadwork, sculptures, masks, clothing, and local artwork.
KWAZULU NATAL SHARKS BOARD SHOP, DURBAN
The Kwazulu Natal Sharks Board Shop, located at the Durban beachfront, specializes in marine-themed souvenirs and gifts. Visitors can find a variety of shark-related merchandise, including T-shirts, toys, books, and other marine-themed items.
OUT OF AFRICA CURIO SHOP, HAZYVIEW
Situated near the entrance of the Kruger National Park, the Out of Africa Curio Shop offers a range of African-inspired souvenirs and crafts. It features handcrafted items, traditional clothing, jewellery, and unique African artefacts.
Cape Point Trading Store, Cape Point: The Cape Point Trading Store, located within the Cape Point Nature Reserve, offers a selection of locally made products, including African crafts, clothing, artwork, and jewellery. It is an ideal place to find souvenirs while exploring the stunning Cape Point area.
THE WATERSHED, CAPE TOWN
Situated at the V&A Waterfront, The Watershed is a contemporary market that showcases South African design and craftsmanship. It features a wide range of products, including fashion, accessories, home décor, art, and locally-produced gourmet food items.
AFRICAN CRAFT MARKET, PORT ELIZABETH
Located at the Boardwalk Shopping Center, the African Craft Market in Port Elizabeth offers an assortment of African crafts, jewellery, artwork, and curios. Visitors can find unique and authentic items representing the diverse cultures of Africa.
LESEDI CULTURAL VILLAGE CURIO SHOP, JOHANNESBURG
The Lesedi Cultural Village is a cultural experience centre that showcases the traditions and heritage of different South African ethnic groups. Its curio shop offers a variety of African crafts, jewellery, traditional clothing, and souvenirs.
MARKET ON MAIN, JOHANNESBURG
Market on Main is a vibrant urban market that takes place in the Maboneng Precinct on Sundays. It features a mix of food vendors, fashion stalls, design shops, and local artisans selling a range of unique products and souvenirs.
These are just a few examples of the many tourist shops and markets across South Africa. Whether you’re looking for traditional crafts, artwork, clothing, or unique souvenirs, these shops provide a fantastic opportunity to explore and purchase items that capture the spirit and culture of South Africa.
