The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Accommodation in Nairobi

Nairobi is a bustling city, home to approximately 3 million residents. For many of them, the city center is their primary residence, as urbanization continues to expand in the city. As such, there are many businesses catering to locals and visitors who want to spend time in Nairobi during the holidays. That being said, finding holiday accommodation isn’t difficult here—and you’ll find everything from hotels and guesthouses to bed-and-breakfast establishments and homestays scattered throughout the city. There are also plenty of properties that offer special rates during Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Here are some of the best options for your next trip to Nairobi:

Nairobi hotels

If you want complete luxury and guaranteed space (not to mention top-notch service), book a room at one of Nairobi’s hotels. Some of the best hotels in Nairobi include the Parklands Hotel and Golf Club, The Carnivore, and The Southern Hotel and Beach Resort. You’ll find that each of these hotels offers a variety of room types—including standard rooms, luxury rooms, suites, and even some family rooms. Most of these hotels are located in the city center, near top attractions like the National Museum of Kenya and the National Gallery of Kenya. Some of them are also just a short drive from the airport.

Guesthouses in Nairobi

Guesthouses are smaller (and sometimes family-run) establishments that offer great value for money. If you don’t need the bells and whistles of hotels, guesthouses are ideal places to stay during your trip to Nairobi. That being said, there are plenty of really nice guesthouses in Nairobi—so you’re bound to find something that suits your needs. Some of the best guesthouses in Nairobi include the Ngurra Lodge, La-Leche Guest House, and Shimo La Tella Guest House. Most of these guesthouses are mid-range establishments that are a bit more affordable than hotels. They also tend to have more character than hotels, which makes them perfect for solo travellers, couples, and small groups.

Bed and breakfasts in Nairobi

If you’re travelling in a group, you might want to consider booking a bed and breakfast in Nairobi instead of a guesthouse. Bed and breakfasts are great if you want a more homey experience—after all, you’ll be staying in someone’s house! Some of the best bed and breakfasts in Nairobi include the La Primavera B&B, Sarova Panks Hotel, and La Bouche Bed and Breakfast. That being said, there are several things you should know when booking a bed and breakfast in Nairobi. If you want to stay in the city centre, it’s best to book your room as early as possible. This is because Nairobi has strict zoning laws, and some residential areas aren’t zoned for commercial use. As such, you may have to look outside the city centre to find a bed and breakfast. However, this might be a blessing in disguise, as you’ll be able to stay in a more residential area—often far away from the noise of the city.

Top homestays in Nairobi

If you’re up for an adventure during your holiday in Nairobi, book a homestay. A homestay is when you stay at the home of a local resident, rather than in a hotel or guesthouse. Homestays are a great way to meet new people, learn more about Kenyan culture, and save money (after all, who can resist free accommodation?!). You can find a homestay through Airbnb, Couchsurfing, or even by asking around. Of course, booking a homestay comes with certain risks. You’re staying at the home of a stranger, after all. So it’s important to make sure to do your research—ask for references and reviews, and always follow your gut.

Tips for finding the best accommodation in Nairobi during the holidays!

So now that you know a little bit about the different types of establishments, how do you find the best holiday accommodation in Nairobi? Here are a few tips: - Browse online: The internet has revolutionized reservations. Today, you can easily browse available properties online, and book your stay from the comfort of your home. This way, you avoid long queues at booking offices and Reservation Telephone Counters. - Look for special deals and promotions: If you’re travelling during the holidays, you’ll find that many establishments offer special deals and promotions. Keep an eye out for these—they often appear just before the holidays start. - Ask friends and family: If you’re struggling to find accommodation, don’t be afraid to ask your friends and family for help. You might be able to get a recommendation for an amazing place that you otherwise wouldn’t have considered. - Be flexible: If all else fails, be flexible with your dates and general preferences. This way, you can increase your chances of finding a place to stay. - Remember: No two trips are ever the same. With a bit of effort, you’re sure to find the perfect holiday accommodation in Nairobi during the holidays!

Conclusion

When you’re travelling during the holidays, it can be difficult to find accommodation. In Nairobi, hotels and guesthouses are often fully booked, and you might have to book months in advance to get a room. But don’t panic! There are plenty of alternatives to hotels, such as homestays and bed and breakfasts. And if you’re flexible with your dates and general preferences, you’re sure to find something that suits your needs.