The beating heart of Kenya, Nairobi is one of Africa's most cosmopolitan and vibrant cities. In the short span of 100 years it has risen from uninhabited swampland into a bustling modern capital city. A sprawling concrete urban jungle nestling beside the Nairobi River, it acts as a stepping stone to the Nairobi National Park - where wildebeasts, zebras, buffalos, giraffes, lions and cheetahs roam free - so it's the perfect place to go for a safari adventure. But there's more to Nairobi than a safari: with a wild nightlife, some great art galleries and national museums and a large European expat population, it makes for a colourful and unique introduction to the heartland of East Africa. The best places to stay in Nairobi include an elegant colonial-era country house surrounded by herds of giraffe!

What not to miss

• Don't miss the Nairobi National Park! Book yourself a safari to see giraffes, rhinos, zebras, cheetahs and lions!
• Visit the Nairobi Gallery for some excellent (and ever-changing) exhibitions.
• The Nairobi National Museum is a great place to immerse yourself in local history!
• Check out Bomas of Kenya for an introduction to local tribal history...

The colourful capital city of Kenya, Nairobi is a great stepping stone for exploring the National Park. Find out more by browsing our list of the best places to stay in Nairobi!

The best places to stay in Nairobi

Safari adventure

• Giraffe Manor is a 1930s manor house not only set in a location surrounded by a vast array of wildlife but also housing a herd of Rothschild giraffes. Dine in elegant surrounds while being entertained by the giraffes who revel in sticking their heads through the windows. A completely unique stay.
• Anga Afrika is a luxury camp set in a secluded location on the edge of Nairobi, well-positioned to access the nearby national parks. The six well-appointed tents are beautifully designed using regional fabrics and feature private terraces and indulgent bathrooms. The large pool is a plus and food is excellent.

Colonial style

• Karen Blixen Cottages offers twelve charming rooms, harking back to days-gone-by, set amidst some of the oldest gardens in Kenya, in a quiet Nairobi district. With a distinctly colonial feel, the cottages feature fireplaces, four-posters and beamed ceilings. The garden houses a lovely pool and there's a quaint restaurant too.
• House of Waine is a large colonial-style villa set in picturesque gardens in the quiet suburb of Karen. This family-run property features traditionally dressed rooms, filled with antiques, the best of which have four-posters. Expect a large pool, dedicated staff and easy access to Nairobi National Park.

Chic boutique

• Hemingways Nairobi is a boutique and luxurious option in the serene neighbourhood of Karen. Sumptuous rooms have a colonial feel with grand four posters, vintage style furniture and freestanding baths. With a classic cocktail bar, laid-back brasserie, swimming pool and spa this will be a tough spot to leave.

City style

• Palacina The Residence & The Suites is a collection of fully-serviced apartments and suites in the exclusive State House area. The design is contemporary and luxurious with a touch of Kenyan flare. Featuring an extensive spa and two pools (one inside and one out) this is the perfect place to truly unwind. The restaurant is superb too.
• Sankara Nairobi is a large luxury hotel located in Nairobi's prestigious Westlands neighbourhood. Rooms are spacious and contemporary with touches of traditional Kenyan style, while the floor to ceiling windows lend superb views. Featuring multiple dining options and rooftop pool, you'll be spoilt for choice here.
• Fairmont The Norfolk is somewhat of a local landmark and oozes elegance and old-world charm. A large property yet with an intimate feel; expect warm service and plenty of luxury. Rooms have been designed with the building's heritage in mind yet they have a clean contemporary feel. An indulgent city base.
• Tribe Hotel is a hip Nairobi offering in the smart diplomatic area of Gigiri. Suites amalgamate chic contemporary style with traditional Kenyan design resulting in a cool play of materials and fabrics. Boasting a luxury spa, large swimming pool (complete with a swim-up bar) and a superb fine-dining restaurant.
• Villa Rosa Kempinski is a grand dame of a hotel boasting superlative service and luxury amenities. Rooms are everything you'd expect from a 5-star property including plush bathrooms, private terraces and pared-back style. The restaurant offerings range from Italian to Middle Eastern, and there's an excellent spa too.

For an apartment or villa

• Our partner Booking.com has a wide range of villas and apartments in the nearby area.

Travel information

• The best time to go is between June and September, when the temperature ranges betwee 14 and 25 degrees, and when there is the least rainfall.
• Fly to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
• If you want to rent a car, contact our partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include the best places to stay in Kenya
• or contact one of our Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Nairobi