Wondering where to stay in Nairobi before a safari? As an tour leader, I have collected hundreds of passengers at various hotels in Nairobi. This includes guest houses, hostels, hotels and even campsites in Nairobi. Some of them are fantastic and some are to be avoided. When trying to choose the best place to stay before your safari, I always suggest staying somewhere ‘nice’ because things are sure to be less comfortable once you get on the road. Let’s take a look at my suggestions…
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Where to Stay in Nairobi before Going on Safari
Quick Answer:
My Insider Pick for Best Hotel in Nairobi – Boulevard Hotel
Best Luxury Hotel in Nairobi –Â Nairobi Serena Hotel
Runner up for Best Hotel in Nairobi – Double Tree by Hilton NairobiÂ
Best Hostel or Campsite to Stay in Nairobi – Wildebeest Camp
Overall Best Hotel in NairobiÂ
Hotel Boulevard
Location – Nairobi City, Kenya
Features – Swimming pool, secure compound, reasonable standard rooms.
What I like about Hotel Boulevard – Secure, located right next to city and excellent value.
I have stayed here many times before safari and whenever I am passing through Nairobi. It has a secure compound and decent standard rooms. There is a pool, restaurant and bar area and really helpful staff on reception. All the taxi drivers know the hotel and it’s easy to get to your tour starting point from here. In fact, a lot of safari operators use this hotel for their starting point because guests seem pleased with the hotel. I highly recommend staying here and when placing your booking on the link below, I suggest asking for a room with a good fan because some rooms are better than others!
By the way, do you already have travel insurance for your safari? Most tour operators require you to have this. I always use World Nomads and it takes just a few seconds to get a quote for your trip on the link below…
Nairobi Serena Hotel
Location – Nairobi City, Kenya
Features – Excellent pool, central location, luxury, professional staff.
What I like about the Nairobi Serena Hotel – Very comfortable and central location.
This is one of the easiest hotels to reach from the airport and located right next to the city centre. The rooms are very comfortable and there is also a fantastic pool. If you want to be sure of a quiet, safe and comfortable place to get settled on arrival, I would pick this hotel in Nairobi. All tour operators and taxi drivers will know this hotel which makes it an ideal base for your first day or two in Nairobi. I also suggest it might be nice to stay somewhere luxurious before you head out on the dusty road for your overland tour or wildlife safari.
Runner-Up for Best Hotel in Nairobi
DoubleTree by Hilton Nairobi
Location – Nairobi City, Kenya
Features – High standard of everything!
What I like about the Double Tree – Luxurious and close to the city.
This is an excellent hotel in Nairobi which is conveniently located to the city. You are also halfway to Langatta where there are many attractions such as the Giraffe Sanctuary. It offers a luxurious and modern retreat in the heart of Kenya’s vibrant capital. Boasting contemporary design and upscale amenities, this hotel provides a comfortable stay for both business and leisure travelers. Conveniently located near major attractions, the hotel features spacious rooms, delectable dining options, and state-of-the-art facilities. With warm hospitality and the signature DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie welcome, this is a great place to stay in Nairobi before a safari.
Best Hostel or Campsite in NairobiÂ
Wildebeest Eco Camp
Location – Karen, Nairobi
Features – Beautiful gardens, secure location and nice set up for tourists.
What I like about Wildebeest – Excellent security and a great place for visitors to stay on their first trip to Africa.
Located on the outskirts of Nairobi, Wildebeest is by far and away the nicest campsite in Nairobi. Featuring large gardens, helpful staff and a swimming pool, the campsite is a favourite for budget travel. Some overland tours in Africa will collect you from Wildebeest but even if they don’t, the campsite is located close to many of the local activities such as the Giraffe Sanctuary and Karen Blixen Museum. You can bring your own tent, but I recommend upgrading to a fixed tent in which you can sort out all your gear before starting your overland tour in Africa.
