UPPITY · DISCOVER LOCALSouth Africa, worth exploring.

Discover Local · Places & markets

Local markets, independent shops & places to explore.

A good place to wander brings several discoveries together. These destinations make useful starting points for meeting makers, browsing shops and finding something unexpected.

3 starting points

Independent editorial mentions · 8 September 2026

Cape Town01

Design destination

Watershed

A V&A Waterfront destination bringing together fashion, craft, art and design from local makers and brands.

Before you choose. A useful starting point when you want to compare several makers in one visit. Ask individual sellers where and how each item is made.

Johannesburg02

Shops & courtyards

44 Stanley

A Johannesburg precinct of independent shops and restaurants arranged around courtyards in former industrial buildings.

Before you choose. Browse its tenant directory before you go and choose a few stops. Individual businesses may keep different hours, so check the ones you want to visit.

Durban03

Makers’ market

I Heart Market

A market platform for KwaZulu-Natal makers, with a focus on locally produced goods and creative small businesses.

Before you choose. Confirm the next date and venue with the organiser before travelling. The website includes older event posts; these are not a current events calendar.

A considered choice

Before you make a plan.

Start with a city.

A few places worth your time.

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