Nairobi, Kenya is one of East Africa’s major safari gateways. Many travelers spend at least a night here before or after a safari – though we would argue that the city deserves more time as there is a laundry list of fun things to do.
Given its vast size and diversity of neighborhoods, it can be hard to decide which area of the city to stay in. The experts at Africa Adventure Consultants can help you choose the right neighborhood and property. Today, we will give you an overview of our top choices for a Nairobi stay.
The suburb of Karen is presumed to be named after one of Nairobi’s most well-known former residents, Karen Blixen, aka Isak Dinesen, the author of Out of Africa. The area is home to Blixen’s former residence along with the Giraffe Centre, where travelers can see and interact with endangered Rothschild giraffes, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, the Oloolua Forest nature trails and a number of excellent restaurants.
Karen is also home to a wonderful selection of boutique hotels including the renowned Giraffe Manor, best known for guests enjoying breakfast or high tea with endangered Rothschild giraffes; the intimate, 11-suite House of Waine; the design-forward Hemingways Eden; and the luxurious Hemingways Nairobi, to name a few. The suburb is close to Wilson Airport, a hub for local and regional flights.
Many travelers are simply looking for a comfortable and reliable hotel where they can lay their heads after a late arrival or to relax before a long journey home. Nairobi’s international airport is home to many familiar brand name hotels with lovely rooms, swimming pools and other amenities designed for relaxation before or after a long international trip. The Four Points by Sheraton, Crowne Plaza Nairobi Airport and the Hilton Garden Inn Nairobi Airport will all deliver the type of solid and reliable international chain airport hotel experience that you would expect.
Nairobi has a national park on the outskirts of the city where guests can see many iconic African species including lion, black rhino, leopard, cheetah, hippo and many more. The chance to see thriving wildlife with a bustling metropolitan backdrop is a truly unique experience. There are few accommodation choices that really allow you to experience the park in depth, but we do have a favorite! The Emakoko is a wonderful place to retreat for a few days to get used to the time change or recharge after safari while keeping that safari feel. You can enjoy excellent game drives, wonderful food and drink, owner-run hospitality and time to laze by the pool.
Contact one of our Journey Specialists to discover the best property for your travel style and interests, and subscribe to our newsletter below for more travel inspiration!
Photos courtesy Grace Nandi, AAC President Kent Redding, Giraffe Manor, Crowne Plaza Nairobi and AAC Senior Journey Specialist Sara Stark