Looking to take a piece of Ethiopia home with you? Whether it’s a handmade craft, a traditional garment, or a taste of local flavor, Ethiopia offers unique souvenirs that reflect its rich culture, history, and artistry. From the vibrant markets of Addis Ababa to rural artisan shops, this guide will help you discover the best souvenirs to buy in Ethiopia meaningful items that go far beyond the typical tourist trinkets.
Traditional Textiles and Clothing
Ethiopia is known for its beautiful handwoven textiles. One of the most iconic pieces is the Habesha kemis, a traditional dress often worn during holidays and ceremonies. Made from soft, handwoven cotton, it's usually decorated with colorful patterns along the borders. Another popular textile item is the netela or gabi lightweight or thick cotton shawls used for warmth, religious events, or as everyday wear. You’ll also find vibrant scarves that make excellent gifts or keepsakes.
For authentic pieces, visit Shiro Meda Market in Addis Ababa, a bustling area where local weavers sell their work directly. For a more curated experience, Salem’s Ethiopia in the Old Airport neighborhood offers high-quality, ethically made textiles. Sabahar is another must-visit spot, offering fair-trade silk and cotton products that blend traditional techniques with modern design. They also ship internationally.
Coffee and Coffee Sets
As the birthplace of coffee, Ethiopia offers some of the finest beans in the world. Popular varieties from Yirgacheffe, Sidamo, and Harrar are known for their unique flavors and aromas. Buying freshly roasted beans makes for an excellent souvenir or gift. But coffee culture here goes beyond the beans—the traditional coffee ceremony is a cornerstone of Ethiopian hospitality. To bring that experience home, many travelers purchase a jebena, the classic clay pot used to brew coffee, along with hand-painted cups and saucers.
Tomoca Coffee, a legendary Ethiopian brand, is a top choice for high-quality beans and beautifully packaged coffee. You can find their cafés across Addis Ababa. Abyssinia Coffee is another reputable brand. For traditional coffee pots and accessories, check out local craft shops or visit Muya Ethiopia for more modern interpretations. Many of these brands, including Tomoca, offer international shipping through their websites.
Ethiopian Spices and Honey
Ethiopian cuisine is rich in flavor, and bringing home some of its key ingredients is a great way to relive your trip. The most famous spice blend is berbere, a fiery red mix used in almost every traditional dish. For those who love heat, mitmita offers an even spicier kick. You’ll also find shiro powder, a popular chickpea-based mix used to make hearty stews. Another unique item to take home is Ethiopian white honey, particularly from the Tigray region, which is known for its light, floral taste.
The best place to shop for these ingredients is Merkato the largest open-air market in Africa where you’ll find endless stalls offering fresh, fragrant spices. If you prefer a more organized experience, shops like Taytu Cultural Shop or Bahir Zaf Ethiopian Goods offer pre-packaged, travel-friendly options that are easier to take through customs.
Traditional Art and Religious Icons
Ethiopia’s deep-rooted Orthodox Christian heritage is beautifully expressed through its art. One of the most memorable souvenirs you can bring home is a hand-painted religious icon. These often depict saints, angels, or biblical scenes and are painted in the traditional Ethiopian style using vivid colors and gold accents. Ethiopian Orthodox crosses, made from silver or wood, are another symbolic and beautiful keepsake.
Entoto Artisans Shop, located near Entoto Hills, is a great place to find religious crafts, while Lela Art Gallery showcases both traditional and contemporary art. You can also find authentic handmade crosses and scrolls in markets like Shiromeda and Merkato, or in small church-side shops throughout the city.
Jewelry and Handicrafts
Ethiopia’s ethnic diversity is reflected in its jewelry and handmade crafts. You’ll find silver and brass crosses, colorful beaded necklaces inspired by Omo Valley tribes, and carved wooden pieces that capture scenes from daily life. Many artisans also create recycled metal art and traditional woven baskets that make unique decorative items.
Makush Art Gallery offers both original artwork and handmade crafts under one roof. Muya Ethiopia is also well-known for beautifully crafted accessories, home décor, and gifts all made using traditional methods. For those shopping from abroad, online platforms like Etsy feature Ethiopian sellers offering everything from jewelry to woven goods.
Books, Music & Cultural Keepsakes
For something a bit different, consider picking up a book on Ethiopian culture, history, or cuisine. Local bookstores like Mega Bookstore carry Amharic-English phrasebooks, cookbooks, and children’s books with cultural themes. Music lovers can find traditional Ethiopian music in CD or vinyl format, and you may also come across miniature versions of musical instruments like the krar or masinko—perfect for display. Museum gift shops, especially at the National Museum and the Ethnological Museum in Addis Ababa, are great for finding thoughtful, culturally rich souvenirs.
Shopping Online or From Abroad
If your suitcase is full or you’re planning a future visit many Ethiopian brands offer online shopping and international shipping. Sabahar’s website features a wide selection of scarves, throws, and table linens. Tomoca sells its coffee online, and Muya Ethiopia allows you to order handcrafted items from their home décor and gift collections. For a wide range of handcrafted Ethiopian goods, Etsy and ZAAF Collection are also worth checking out.
Ethiopia’s souvenirs are more than just keepsakes they’re a window into its rich traditions, creativity, and hospitality. Whether you're sipping coffee from a jebena, wearing a handwoven scarf, or spicing your meals with berbere, you'll be reminded of the vibrant experiences that make Ethiopia unforgettable.
If you’re planning an extended stay or need a home base while exploring Addis Ababa’s markets and artisan shops, Live Ethio Consulting Agency can help you find the perfect house or apartment. We specialize in securing comfortable, well-located housing options to make your time in Ethiopia smooth, safe, and enjoyable.