Used in Zulu rituals, traditional masks are sold along the Durban beachfront, and at selected markets and galleries.

Woven from organic material, these baskets are both practical and visually appealing - for sale by informal hawkers and in local gift shops and markets. The BAT Centre is a great place to look for local art & craft.

Sturdy beer pots made in the age-old Zulu tradition add an authentic décor touch. Available from informal vendors, beachfront hawkers and in local gift shops and galleries.

Gorgeous Zulu beadwork and jewellery can be found around Durban, at popular south coast beaches and in Maputaland – look out for wooden 4x4 vehicle replicas here too. Colourful beads woven in the traditional style can make a major fashion statement back home.

Durban is home to a large Indian community and their kaleidoscope of fabric shops sell beautiful saris, Indian fashion items and a wide selection of imported fabrics. Negotiate a discount.

With names like "Mother-in-law's revenge", a fine mix of spices and curry powders are on sale in the Victoria Street market, an excellent place to shop for authentic Indian fare. Larger malls often include an Indian spice shop if you're in a hurry.

The KwaZulu-Natal provincial rugby team is the pride of the province, and goes by the name of the Sharks. All manner of customised gear, from socks to T-shirts and caps are sold at their headquarters at eThekwini's (Durban's) Absa Stadium, at King Shaka Airport and in sports shops.

The Midlands Meander features a plethora of locally produced arts and crafts. Along the mapped route (maps available from tourism offices) you'll find weavers, potters, artists, second-hand dealers, glassworks, farm stalls, carpenters and loads more places to find a souvenir to suit your pocket.

There are many small art and craft galleries in KwaZulu-Natal. Try the NSA Gallery in Bulwer Road, eThekweni (Durban) for a great selection of crafts and artwork; African Art Centre in Florida Road, eThekweni; Andrew Walford Shongweni Pottery Gallery in Hillcrest; Imbizo Gallery in Ballito or the Tamasa Art Gallery on the Berea.

When in Rome ... dress up in slops and baggies and you'll blend in with the locals. KwaZulu-Natal is the beach capital of South Africa, and it's here that you'll find surf shops and beachfront vendors selling all manner of beach gear, from sarongs and swimming trunks to slops, sunhats and more. For authentic surf labels, stick to the mall outlets.