Maputo Shopping – Shops, Stores, Best Buys & Inside Tips

Maputo Shopping

Street vendors and bartering are two things you’re guaranteed when shopping in Maputo! Get ready for some handmade treasures from Maputo shopping with these shops, stores, best buys and inside tips!

Grocery Mafalala

Popularly known as “Mufundisse” this extremely popular grocery store is well known for its usual low prices. Founded in 1969 by an Indian emigrant, he was the grandfather of the current owner who was also born in India. Since the original founder used to have a large beard he became immediately know by “Mufundisse”, a word in the local Ronga language which may have two meanings: (1) “father” or (2) “shepherd”. Many frequent customers have been doing their shopping at the Mufundisse for several generations, so friendship has been built between the buyers and the sellers alike. “Mufundisse” is located in “Rua de Goa” (Goa Street), formerly “Estrada de Mafalala” (Mafalala Road).

Municipal Market

Looking for Souvenirs and crafts? You’ll find them at the back of the Municipal Market. It almost seems like they are trying to hide this fairly large section of souvenirs and art objects. You’ll find paintings, wooden handicrafts, and all sorts of real handmade items. North American Indian Dreamcatchers are side by side with plastic key chains and wooden Rondavels (traditional round thatch houses). Because of its quiet location this section practically buzzes when real tourists find it. The shopkeepers are happy to quietly negotiate prices with you, which is always done with politeness on both sides.

Tip: Keep a sharp eye out for pickpockets in this area.

Best Buys

Handmade masks can be bought everywhere on the streets in Maputo and at the Saturday Market Bazar Artesanato. For three small handmade masks one visitor paid 100 Metacais for each. The masks are handcrafted from wood and make a special gift to give friends back home.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Maputo Shopping – Shops, Stores, Best Buys & Inside Tips.