Hemingways Nairobi is the boutique choice for travellers who want to stay in Karen, the green south-western suburb named after Karen Blixen, rather than in the busy city. The hotel stands on Mbagathi Ridge, in quiet gardens, and its style is deliberately old-fashioned: warm wood, antiques, framed photographs and a colonial-era mood that nods to the safari age and to the writer whose name it borrows. It is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, and the service has the personal feel you expect of a smaller property. The rooms and suites come in several categories, from Deluxe and Executive rooms to the Blixen Suite and the Hemingway Suite, with big beds, air conditioning and views over the garden. Facilities include an outdoor pool with sun loungers, a spa with massages, facials and body wraps, a hot tub, a sauna and a steam room, a restaurant serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner, and a bar and lounge that is a pleasant spot for a drink before dinner. The setting makes it a natural base for the wildlife and heritage sights of the south of the city.
Location and getting around
Karen is about forty minutes from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport by car, depending on traffic, and the hotel arranges a paid airport transfer. The Giraffe Centre is about ten minutes away, and the Karen Blixen Museum, the Sheldrick elephant nursery and the main gate of Nairobi National Park are all close, which cuts out the long city traffic that dominates a stay in the centre. The city centre and Westlands are further, so use the hotel car, a taxi or a ride-hail app rather than walking in the evening.
The rooms
Rooms are individually styled in a classic safari-lodge manner, and the suites add separate sitting areas and larger bathrooms. Ask for a garden-facing room for the quietest stay. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout, and there is free parking for guests who are self-driving.
Who it suits
Couples looking for a romantic stay, travellers beginning or ending a safari who want to rest in comfort, and anyone interested in Karen’s history who would like to wake up close to the sights. It is also a good choice for visitors who prefer a small, quiet hotel to a large international chain.
Good to know
The hotel does not accept pets. The restaurant is popular with non-residents for brunch and special occasions, so reserve a table in advance at weekends. Check meal options when booking, since breakfast is not always included in the room rate. If you are staying on the night before an early safari departure, tell the front desk so they can arrange pickup times and a packed breakfast.
Why stay here
- ✓Boutique colonial-style design
- ✓Outdoor pool with sun loungers
- ✓Full-service spa
- ✓Hot tub, sauna and steam room
- ✓Restaurant and bar lounge
- ✓Garden and terrace
- ✓Free parking
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
Good questions
Where is Hemingways Nairobi?+
It is on Mbagathi Ridge in Karen, the leafy south-western suburb of Nairobi, close to the Giraffe Centre and the Karen Blixen Museum.
How far is Hemingways Nairobi from the airport?+
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is about forty minutes away by car, depending on traffic. The hotel can arrange a paid transfer.
Does Hemingways Nairobi have a pool and spa?+
Yes, there is an outdoor pool with sun loungers and a full-service spa with massages and facials, plus a hot tub, a sauna and a steam room.
