Addis Ababa has a long craft and food tradition, and shopping there can be practical as well as interesting. You won’t need to visit a single street to find meaningful items; this guide covers things commonly sold around the city.

Focus on locally made goods and edible items that travel well. Below are sensible souvenir choices, how to judge quality, and simple packing tips.

1. Ethiopian coffee beans

• Why it’s worth buying: Coffee is central to daily life and flavor varies by region. Fresh roasted beans let you recreate an Ethiopian cup at home.
• Where to look: Open-air markets and coffee stalls in central market areas.
• Price range: $6–$20
• How to spot a good one: Look for recent roast dates and whole beans rather than ground.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Vacuum-sealed bags travel well and won’t spill inside luggage.

2. Woven mesob (table basket)

• Why it’s worth buying: These flat-topped, colorful baskets serve as serving trays and table covers. They show traditional weaving techniques and last for years with care.
• Where to look: Independent shops that focus on handicrafts and home goods.
• Price range: $15–$60
• How to spot a good one: Tight, even weaving and firm, well-attached lids indicate quality.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Collapse soft baskets into clothing to cushion them in checked baggage.

3. Hand-stitched leather wallet or belt

• Why it’s worth buying: Local leatherworkers produce sturdy small leather goods that improve with use. Smaller pieces are more useful and easier to carry than large bags.
• Where to look: Street markets and craft stalls near commercial areas.
• Price range: $10–$40
• How to spot a good one: Check seams and edges for neat stitching and consistent dyeing.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Place in your carry-on to prevent crushing and to allow inspection.

4. Frankincense and myrrh resin

• Why it’s worth buying: Resin from the region is used in rituals and for scenting homes; it stores well. It’s a light, aromatic souvenir that lasts.
• Where to look: Co-ops and market stalls that sell traditional incense and herbs.
• Price range: $4–$20
• How to spot a good one: Pick resin that’s fragrant but not overly powdery or full of debris.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Wrap in a sealed bag to contain any loose dust and scent.

5. Hand-painted ceramic coffee cups (sini)

• Why it’s worth buying: Small painted cups are sized for traditional coffee service and show local motifs. They’re a practical reminder of the coffee ceremony.
• Where to look: Galleries and artisan displays that feature pottery.
• Price range: $8–$30
• How to spot a good one: Look for smooth glaze, even painted lines, and no hairline cracks.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Wrap each cup in clothing and place in the center of your luggage for padding.

6. Traditional jebena (clay coffee pot)

• Why it’s worth buying: The jebena is used to brew coffee and carries cultural meaning. A small, well-fired pot makes an authentic souvenir.
• Where to look: Central market halls that sell kitchenware and traditional items.
• Price range: $12–$50
• How to spot a good one: Even color, dense clay, and a secure handle indicate durable firing.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Carry it in a box or padded case and place it in carry-on when possible.

7. Netela or traditional scarves

• Why it’s worth buying: Light, woven scarves are used for daily wear and formal events and show simple handwoven patterns. They’re versatile and breathable.
• Where to look: Co-ops and textile sellers that work with local weavers.
• Price range: $6–$35
• How to spot a good one: Inspect the weave for even threads and minimal loose ends.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Roll scarves tightly to save space and avoid creases.

8. Handmade silver or beaded jewelry

• Why it’s worth buying: Local jewelers make pieces using traditional designs and beads for everyday wear. Jewelry can be a compact, long-lasting keepsake.
• Where to look: Galleries and independent craft shops featuring metalsmiths.
• Price range: $12–$80
• How to spot a good one: Good clasps, solid soldering, and consistent bead quality suggest durability.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Store in a small hard case or wrap in soft fabric to prevent tangling.

9. Berbere spice blend

• Why it’s worth buying: This signature spice mix defines many Ethiopian dishes and adds authentic flavor at home. Small packages keep well if sealed.
• Where to look: Food halls and spice stalls in larger markets.
• Price range: $3–$12
• How to spot a good one: Fresh aroma and vibrant color indicate recently ground spices.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Use sealed containers or vacuum bags to avoid leaks and strong smells.

10. Teff flour or packaged injera mix

• Why it’s worth buying: Teff is a unique local grain and packaged mixes let you try traditional bread back home. They represent a staple ingredient.
• Where to look: Food halls and grocery sections in central markets.
• Price range: $5–$20
• How to spot a good one: Check for clear packaging, ingredient lists, and no signs of moisture.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Keep in original sealed packaging and put in checked luggage inside a plastic bag.

11. Prints or posters by local artists

• Why it’s worth buying: Affordable prints capture local scenes, motifs, or contemporary art without taking much space. They’re easy to frame later.
• Where to look: Galleries, artist collectives, and museum shops.
• Price range: $8–$45
• How to spot a good one: Crisp printing, acid-free paper, and clear artist attribution indicate care.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Roll prints in a tube to prevent creasing during travel.

12. Hand-carved wooden utensils or kitchenware

• Why it’s worth buying: Carved wooden spoons and bowls reflect local woodworking skills and are useful in the kitchen. They age well with proper care.
• Where to look: Independent craft stalls and market vendors offering housewares.
• Price range: $6–$35
• How to spot a good one: Smooth finishes and no rough splinters show careful carving and sanding.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Wrap wood in soft cloth and place between clothing to avoid dents.

Quick buying tips for Addis Ababa

• Carry small bills and coins; many vendors prefer cash over card payments.
• Bargain politely at market stalls; haggling is common and often expected.
• Wrap fragile items in clothing and place them in carry-on when possible.
• Ask about shipping options if a shop offers export packing and courier service.
• Look for “made locally” or artisan labels and ask about the maker’s origin.
• Keep liquids sealed and check airline rules before packing open food items.

Where to shop in Addis Ababa

Shopping is spread across large market areas, smaller craft districts, and museum shops. Some zones specialize in food and spices, while others focus on textiles and handcrafted goods.

• Merkato, the large open market area, for spices, coffee beans, and everyday goods.
• Shiro Meda for textile stalls and tailors selling traditional cloth and scarves.
• Bole commercial district for contemporary boutiques and designer-ready accessories.
• National Museum and museum shops for art prints, books, and curated crafts.
• Central market halls near transport hubs for packaged foods and kitchenware.
• Artist co-ops and galleries around cultural centers for jewelry and limited-edition prints.
• Arada (old city) streets for wood carvings, traditional items, and small household crafts.

What to skip (common tourist traps)

• Cheap plastic trinkets labeled “authentic” because they’re mass-made and brittle.
• Items with vague origin labels; “African-made” can hide imported, low-quality goods.
• Overly glossy “antique” claims without provenance or honest seller explanations.
• Perfumed or oily souvenirs with weak packaging that might leak on the flight.
• Electronic gadgets sold on the street lacking warranties or clear specifications.
• Poorly finished textiles sold at deep discounts; uneven dye and loose threads indicate low quality.

If you only buy three things

Ethiopian coffee beans — essential for tasting local flavor at home.
Berbere spice blend — brings a recognizable taste of local cooking to your kitchen.
A netela scarf — lightweight, useful, and reflective of local textile craft.

FAQ

What is Addis Ababa known for making?
Addis Ababa is known for coffee culture, handwoven textiles, and various handicrafts. Local artisans also produce metalwork, leather goods, and woodcarvings.

What are the best edible souvenirs from Addis Ababa?
Coffee beans, berbere spice blends, and teff flour or injera mix are practical choices. These items store well if sealed and are straightforward to pack.

Are souvenirs expensive in Addis Ababa?
Prices range broadly depending on quality and where you buy them. Market stalls tend to be cheaper, while galleries and museum shops charge more for curated or signed pieces.

What is the easiest souvenir to pack from Addis Ababa?
Small, sealed packages like coffee beans or spice blends are easiest to pack. They take little space and don’t require fragile handling.

How do I know if something is truly local?
Ask the seller where the item was made and who made it, and look for artisan or cooperative labels. Clear material lists and maker names usually indicate local production.

Tip: Save your receipts, and keep fragile items in your carry-on.

About the Author 

Colin is the founder of SouvenirsIdeas.com and a passionate traveller with a soft spot for ceramics, markets, and food tours. He writes practical, first-hand guides to help you bring home souvenirs that actually mean something — not just more clutter!

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