Variety is the spice of life. When it comes to curio shopping, the saying has never felt truer. The trip to local shops, markets and stalls is an adventure. The ardent shopper is treated to textures, shapes and colours - often in dizzying amounts.
Curios have typically been the treasures of tourists. However, locals are quickly realising the value in handmade crafts, art, jewellery and gifts. From finding a unique birthday or anniversary present to furnishing your home with unusual pieces, curios are wonderfully versatile.
As a tourist hotspot, Hoedspruit is practically an Aladdin's cave of curio browsing. Here are some of the places every serious shopper should visit.
Ukuthula Arts & Craft Shop
You'll be blown away the minute you walk in. Ukuthula boasts a range of ornaments, art, jewellery and decorative pots - all with beauty, quality and practicality in mind. These pieces are sourced from Limpopo, South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. What makes Ukuthula stand out, is their sensitivity to the history of their curios. Staff will be happy to share the cultural significance of each piece. It also makes for a feel-good shopping experience. Many items are created from recycled tin and wood. You'll also be contributing to the livelihood of individual craftsmen, social enterprises and community-based projects.
Mohlabetsi Lodge curio shop
Do you love bold colours, bright patterns and unexpected textures when it comes to decor? Great news! According to Decorist celebrity designer, Jonathan Rachman, "embellished, handcrafted and maximalist is on the rise". Switching from minimalism is simple with Mohlabetsi Lodge's curio shop. They have an array of mounted trophies and wood carvings that can get your home in order. With artwork from South African artists and as far as Congo and West Africa, you'll be spoilt for choice.
Kamogelo Tourism Centre curio shops
This is a lovely shopping trip only 10 minutes away from Hoedspruit central. The Kamogelo Tourism Centre is the ideal curio stop for families. You can browse the variety of shops while the kids take advantage of a dedicated play area. The curio shops here specialise in authentic gifts, African crafts, art and fine jewellery. Visit the centre's Facebook group to keep an eye on upcoming events and promotions.
Tshukudu Game Lodge curio shop
You can bring African culture into your home with Tshukudu. Their curio store has a range of intriguing curios gathered from all corners of the African continent. It's well worth a trip to Tshukudu. While you're mulling over a purchase, you can go on a bush walk, game drive or enjoy a traditional South African meal. Your African safari will inspire you to leave with a trinket you'll cherish forever.
Curio stalls at the Hoedspruit Farmer's Market
South Africa's rich cultural heritage is on display at this market. There are a number of curio-browsing stalls to check out. You'll have your pick of handcrafted Murano glass bead jewellery, wildlife sculptures and African-style clothing. Penga Ndlovu Customs, a market regular, gives you access to custom-made knives and objects of beauty. The pleasure in curio shopping here lies in its atmosphere. You'll love the delicious culinary aromas, friendly chatter and festive vibes provided by Dan Kusaya and his Sweet Dreamers Marimba Band.
It's clear curio shopping is simple in Hoedspruit. There are so many bespoke items on offer that suit all tastes and budgets. By moving to the area, you can truly take advantage of the curio scene. Hoedspruit is also ideal if you're a nature-lover with quality living in mind. The area provides a fantastic gateway to safari parks and other natural wonders. Our Hoedspruit property professionals are ready to help you move. Browse our online listings and find your home from the comfort of your chair.