By creating an account, I agree to the
Terms of service and Privacy policy
Choose your country and language:
Africa
- Global
- Angola
- Botswana
- DRC
- Ethiopia
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Malawi
- Mozambique
- Namibia
- Nigeria
- South Africa
- Tanzania
- Uganda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
- Sho't Left
Americas
- USA
- Brazil
Asia Pacific
- China
- India
- Japan
- South Korea
- Australia
Europe
- France
- Germany
- Italy
- Netherlands
- United Kingdom
TThere are eleven official languages in South Africa, and each culture finds expression in objects. From sculptures and stone carvings, to wire animals, textiles, beaded works, pottery and basketware, this is a shopper’s paradise.
There are also traditional artifacts that may interest you: ostrich shells, wooden sculptures and face masks make for wonderful mementoes. Look out for goods that are Proudly South African to support the local industries and sustainable development.
Because South Africa was isolated for so long, small country towns will often have exceptional antique stores. With our can-do attitude, you’ll also find the markets packed with incredible and unique goods. From special African teas to paintings of South African icons, you can spend hours here. While you can bargain at some places, keep in mind that for many artisans their income feeds a whole family. If you can afford to, pay what is asked for—it’s very likely that it’s still a huge bargain.
WWith gold and diamonds being among our most-famed resources, jewellery and gemstones such as tanzanites are hugely popular. While here, visitors are always keen to taste and buy incredible wines.
Joburg, in particular, is a favoured shopping destination for millions of Africans who come to stock up on goods they might not be able to get in their country. Because large parts of South Africa are rural, people also come in from the countryside to shop. Many of the major city centres have massive malls, where all amenities can be found. When you’re en route in South Africa, you might see minibus taxis with massive trailers behind them.
Foreigners can claim a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund on purchases. To do this, your tax invoice must clearly show the seller's name and address, their VAT registration number, a description of the purchased goods, the price of the item in ZAR and the amount of VAT charged. VAT is levied at a rate of 15%. For purchases over R3000, you will need to produce the buyer's name and address.
No matter what you buy, the favourable exchange rate means that you’ll get incredible deals.
Related articles
- Bustling city life
Cape Town: A South African historically significant city
1Bustling city lifeCape Town: A South African historically significant cityPopularly known as the “Mother City”, the city has some of South Africa’s most important history and culture.1 - Vibrant culture
Joburg’s most iconic buildings
Vibrant cultureJoburg’s most iconic buildingsThe buildings in this ever-evolving city certainly reflect its rich heritage. - Bustling city life
The history of Joburg, City of Gold
Bustling city lifeThe history of Joburg, City of GoldJohannesburg, the metropolis with the country’s tallest skyscrapers, was once just veld (bush), dotted with rocky outcrops, scrubby bush and a network of streams. - Bustling city life
The 10 best restaurants in Joburg
1Bustling city lifeThe 10 best restaurants in JoburgJust like the city itself, the dining scene in Jozi is constantly changing.1 - Bustling city life
Eating out in Cape Town - an eclectic mix of restaurants
Bustling city lifeEating out in Cape Town - an eclectic mix of restaurantsYou will discover a bold, experimental and contemporary food scene in Cape Town. - Bustling city life
Quirky hotels - trailers, ox wagons, tree houses and even a castle (3)
Bustling city lifeQuirky hotels - trailers, ox wagons, tree houses and even a castle (3)Top 9 Quirky hotels in South Africa. - Bustling city life
Montecasino - explore Italy while visiting Johannesburg
Bustling city lifeMontecasino - explore Italy while visiting JohannesburgDesigned to meticulously represent an old Italian village in Tuscany, this entertainment complex has over 2km of restaurants and entertainment venues, and an 8500m2 gaming casino. - Bustling city life
The University of Cape Town (UCT) - a place of learning excellence and cultural history
Bustling city lifeThe University of Cape Town (UCT) - a place of learning excellence and cultural historyUCT is one of the country's oldest university and a leading higher education institute in South Africa.
South Africa on social media
Useful links
