Nairobi Hotels
Apart from Nairobi's two grand buildings – the Sarova Stanley and the Norfolk Hotel – the hotels downtown are a modest bunch, and many travellers prefer to stay out in the suburbs. The better hotels in the centre are found around Moktar Daddah Street, Moi Avenue and Kenyatta Avenue. There are lots of cheap lodgings around the junction of River Road and Latema Road, but this area can be dangerous after dark. The best suburban hotels in Nairobi are in Westlands, Parklands and Karen, but there are several superior backpacker options around Nairobi Hill and Milimani.
The Nairobi hotels below have been grouped into three pricing categories:
Luxury (over Ksh8,000)
Moderate (Ksh2,000 to Ksh8,000)
Cheap (up to Ksh2,000)
These Nairobi hotel rates are for a double room only and do not include breakfast, but they do include taxes.
Luxury
Giraffe Manor
Where else in the world can you be woken in the morning by a giraffe peering into your bedroom window? Attached to the AFEW Giraffe Centre, this grand Edwardian manor is decked out with Karen Blixen's old furniture, and staying here feels like staying in a posh country home. Factor in fine food and wine and a personal chauffeur and it's easy to see the appeal.
Address: Langata, Gogo Falls Lane, Nairobi,Telephone: +254 72 567 5830
Website: http://www.thesafaricollection.com/properties/giraffe-manor
Nairobi Serena Hotel
One of the more elegant options in Nairobi, this sophisticated place draws on influences from across Africa, and the interiors are full of tribal sculptures, textiles and wooden furniture. The spotless rooms have marble bathrooms and views over the grounds and lush gardens. There is also a swimming pool, health club and shops. Although the hotel itself is very secure, adjacent Central Park and Uhuru Park are not safe to walk around at night.
Address: , Kenyatta Avenue, Nairobi,Telephone: +254 20 272 5250
Website: http://www.serenahotels.com/serenanairobi
Sarova Stanley
One of the most historic hotels in Nairobi, the Sarova Stanley first opened its doors in 1902, and boasts a rich history of famous former guests, among them Ernest Hemingway. Rooms are well appointed and soundproof, and there's a gym, sauna, rooftop pool and bar. Don't miss out on the legendary Thorn Tree Cafe either, a travellers' haunt since British times.
Address: , Corner of Kimathi Street and Kenyatta Avenue, Nairobi,Telephone: +254 71 904 8000
Website: http://www.sarovahotels.com/stanley
Moderate
Hotel Ambassadeur Nairobi
Standards have slipped slightly since the days when this tall tower hosted politicians and presidents, but it's still a cut above the competition. The comfortable rooms are well appointed, and there's a good bar and restaurant. It's a popular venue in Nairobi for weddings and conferences, so book ahead.
Address: , Tom Mboya Street, Nairobi,Telephone: +254 20 224 6615.
Website: http://www.hotelambassadeurkenya.com
Kenya Comfort Hotel
Well looked after, central and friendly, the Kenya Comfort Hotel offers decent facilities at a reasonable price. It's a secure hotel in Nairobi, and the rooftop lounge offers beautiful views over the city. The rooms are tiled, modern and clean, and there's a restaurant and bar if you don't feel like braving the city streets after dark.
Address: , Corner of Muindi Mbingu Street and Monrovia Street, Nairobi,Telephone: +254 73 460 8866
Website: http://www.kenyacomfort.com
Sentrim 680 Hotel
This reasonably priced mid-range hotel in Nairobi is in a decent location. It is a bit shabby and not much to look at, but is safe, has clean rooms with en-suite bathrooms, useful facilities, a restaurant and its own bar. Rooms facing the main road can cop a bit of noise, so ask for one at the back.
Address: , Processional way, Nairobi,Telephone: +254 72 220 7361
Website: http://www.sentrimhotels.net
Cheap
Central YMCA
This is a well-appointed, central hostel in Nairobi. Good-value rooms, reasonable food, swimming pool, tennis courts and an aerobics studio make this feel more like a small hotel, and you don't have to be male or Christian to stay here.
Address: Estate, State House Road, Nairobi,Telephone: +254 20 272 4116.
Website: http://kenyaymca.com/stay-at-our-hostels/hostel-information
Terminal Hotel
A good-value alternative to the backpacker crash pads, the Terminal Hotel in Nairobi is simple but well located. You get what you pay for in terms of luxuries, but the rooms have bathrooms and you can walk to everything in the centre. Ask for a room at the back, away from the street noise.
Address: , Moktar Daddah Street, Nairobi,Telephone: +254 71 817 9967
Upper Hill Campsite
Part campsite for overland groups, part backpacker hostel, this expansive place is a hike from the centre of Nairobi, but it makes up for this with excellent facilities. Staff can organise all sorts of safaris and excursions, and the spacious, secure compound has its own bar, restaurant and games room.
Address: , Othaya Road, Lavington, Nairobi,Telephone: +254 20 250 0218.
Website: http://www.upperhillcampsite.com
