The market at the centre of town is the hub of life in Maralal and the best place to watch the meeting of different worlds that characterises this frontier town. Samburu herders in traditional ochre-dyed cloth and elaborate beadwork trade alongside Somali merchants, Turkana pastoralists, and the occasional traveller passing through on the way north toward Lake Turkana.
Morning is the liveliest time, when the livestock market is active and the food stalls are busy. The market sells fresh produce, basic provisions, mobile phone accessories, and a variety of clothing. Beadwork, bangles, and small crafts are available from women traders around the edges. Prices are generally fair; bargaining is expected but not aggressive.