::Diani Travel

Fine examples of basketry can be found throughout Kenya. Baskets vary in size and colour regionally throughout Kenya.

One of the most popular is the sisal basket called the Kiondoo. They come in a variety of sizes, colours and configurations with many different straps, clasps and in more modern versions with a clip, buckle or zip, sometimes in a decorative design.. Some of the finer baskets have baobab bark woven into them and this bumps up the price considerably. These baskets commonly produced in Kikuyu areas (where you may hear them called Chondo) are a small functional basket with a leather carrying strap. They are popularly used as handbags, although traditionally they are carried by Kikuyu women behind the head, with the strap across the forehead.


	Shopping in Kenya can be a lot of fun and a large pain at the same time. The first thing to realize is that bargaining is a must. Almost anywhere you go to buy something you will be able and expected to bargain. Shop for local handicrafts and art, including wood carvings of animals and people, sisal baskets, Masai and Kikuyu beadwork, handwoven kanga (sarong) fabric, Kisii soapstone, intricately carved gourds, ebony carvings, batik wall hangings, antiques (notably Arabic pieces), blue tanzanite or green tsavorite gemstones, and malachite.