Mercado do Artesanato - traditional Craft Market 

The Mercado do Artesanato — also called the Praça do Artesanato or Handicraft Market — is a lively open-air market in Luanda, Angola. It is dedicated to local arts, crafts, and souvenirs, and it is one of the best places in the country to buy traditional Angolan handicrafts.

The market has been running for more than 30 years. It was once located in the Benfica district, but it was moved to Morro da Cruz (in the Ramiros area), right next to the National Slavery Museum (Museu Nacional da Escravatura). The move was meant to bring more visitors to the museum and to give them an easy place to buy cultural souvenirs nearby.

Every day, around 700 artisans set up stalls here, displaying over 10,000 pieces. This makes it one of Angola's largest and most famous markets for traditional crafts.

What It's Like to Visit

The market is colourful, busy, and full of energy. It's a great way to experience Angolan culture through art. Many visitors combine it with the nearby Slavery Museum to make a meaningful half-day trip. The market is about 20–30 minutes south of central Luanda.

The atmosphere is friendly and full of life. Stalls are packed with crafts, and there is plenty of bargaining and local energy. Many stalls are run by the artisans themselves, who are happy to explain the stories and meaning behind their work. A few vendors are resellers rather than makers, and some printed cloth is imported rather than locally made — so it's worth asking if that matters to you. The market can feel crowded on weekends.

What to Buy

The market is full of handmade crafts. Look for:

• Wood carvings and statues. Popular ones include the "Pensador" (Thinker) figure, animals like the Giant Sable Antelope (Angola's national symbol), and traditional masks such as the Mwana Pwo.
• Pieces made from pau-preto, a rare black wood.
• Hand-painted artworks, including pictures made from coloured sand instead of paint.
• Jewellery, textiles, and baskets.
• Musical instruments, such as the marimba and the quissanje.
• Clothing, including traditional African dress.
• Small souvenirs, like keychains and fridge magnets.

Many pieces reflect the cultures of Angola's main ethnic groups, such as the Ovimbundu, the Mbundu, and the Bakongo. Talking to the artisans is a good way to learn what each piece represents.

Tips from Visitors

• Bargain. Haggling is normal and expected here — it's part of the fun.
• Go early. You'll get a better choice of crafts and smaller crowds.
• Bring cash. Kwanza is preferred, and cards are not always accepted.
• Chat with the vendors. Taking time to talk is the best way to learn more.
• Combine your trip. Pair the market with the Slavery Museum, and maybe a boat to nearby Mussulo Island.

Visitor Information

Location: Morro da Cruz / Ramiros, south of Luanda, next to the National Slavery Museum. It is easy to reach by taxi, private driver, or guided tour from central Luanda. There is also a large parking area.

Opening hours: The market is generally open most days of the week, from morning until late afternoon. Hours can change, so it's best to confirm before you go.

Getting there: A guided tour is a good option if you want easy, stress-free transport and someone to explain the crafts and culture.

Good to Know

• Watch your belongings. As with other Luanda markets, there is a small risk of petty theft. Use reliable transport.
• Be ready for heat and sun. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
• Check export rules. Some items, such as certain types of wood or older ivory pieces, may have export restrictions. Ivory in particular can be illegal to take home. Check current customs rules before buying.
• Check travel advice. Always look at recent travel advisories for Luanda before your trip.

In Short

The Mercado do Artesanato is one of the best places in Luanda for genuine Angolan souvenirs and a real taste of local culture — especially if you pair it with nearby historical sites. It's a great stop for anyone interested in African art and in supporting local artisans.