DoubleTree by Hilton Nairobi is a refined, contemporary hotel located along Mombasa Road / near Nairobi’s airport corridor, making it a practical, full-service option for travelers planning to explore Nairobi National Park or conduct a short stay before or after their safari adventures. This guide offers a detailed look at the hotel’s location, amenities, rooms, rates, advantages for park visitors, guest experience, and answers to common questions.
📍 Location & Access
- DoubleTree by Hilton Nairobi is situated along Mombasa Road, within reach of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Wilson Airport.
- It lies typically 15–20 minutes from JKIA depending on traffic conditions.
- In relation to Nairobi National Park, it is about 10 km (15–20 minutes) away from the park’s East or Main Gate, making it viable for early morning or evening transfers.
- The hotel also has convenient access to the Nairobi Expressway and major thoroughfares that connect to the city center, Karen, and other attractions.
Because of its position on Mombasa Road corridor, DoubleTree provides relatively fast connectivity between airport, city, and park — a useful “triangular” base for safari guests.
🏨 Hotel Atmosphere & Positioning
As part of the Hilton brand, DoubleTree carries a reputation for international standards in comfort, service, and consistency. The hotel’s design is modern and elegant, with touches of local styling and décor that reflect Kenyan colors and aesthetics.
You can expect a hotel environment that balances business utility and leisure refuge — polished, welcoming, and secure — well suited for overnight stays, layovers, and safari travelers seeking comfort without remote-outlay.
Often, guests comment on the hotel’s quietness despite proximity to Mombasa Road, thanks to good building insulation and thoughtful layout.
🛏️ Rooms & Accommodation
DoubleTree by Hilton Nairobi offers a wide variety of room types to suit different traveler needs — from solo visitors to families or business groups.
Room Categories
- Standard Guest Rooms (King or Twin): Well-appointed spaces with comfortable bedding, work desks, and city or partial park views.
- Executive Rooms / Club Level: With additional privileges such as access to executive lounge, refreshments, and upgraded amenities.
- Junior Suites: More space, separate living area, possibly balcony or enhanced view.
- Full Suites: Larger suites with separate living/dining zones, enhanced bathrooms, and added comfort for longer stays.
Amenities in Rooms
All rooms typically include:
- High-speed complimentary Wi-Fi
- Flat-screen TV with satellite / international channels
- Air conditioning and blackout curtains
- Minibar, tea/coffee-making station, bottled water
- Safe, phone, work desk, power outlets
- En-suite bathrooms with shower or bathtub and toiletries
- 24-hour room service
Rooms are maintained to hotel brand standards, with daily housekeeping, fresh linens, and responsive maintenance.
🍽️ Dining & Food Venues
DoubleTree by Hilton Nairobi offers multiple dining options suited to different times of day — helpful when traveling on varying schedules around safaris and flights.
- Main Restaurant / All-Day Dining: Serves breakfast (buffet + made-to-order), lunch, and dinner — combining continental, Kenyan, and international fare.
- Lobby Lounge / Café: Offers coffee, light snacks, pastries, and casual fare throughout the day.
- Bar & Terrace: A relaxed venue for evening drinks, cocktails, and light bites, often with pleasant views or outdoor seating.
- Pool Bar / Grill: Seasonal or open during warmer months, serving refreshing drinks and grilled specials by the poolside.
- In-Room Dining: Available 24 hours, convenient for guests arriving late or leaving early.
Special menus for vegetarian, halal, gluten-free, and dietary preferences are often available on request. The breakfast spread is usually strong, with hot and cold options beloved by guests.
🏊 Facilities & Guest Services
DoubleTree provides an array of services and amenities that anchor it well above simple airport lodging — useful for safari travelers needing comfort, business function, and leisure.
Key Amenities
- Outdoor Swimming Pool: A refreshing facility ideal for relaxation after travel or an afternoon return from the park
- Fitness Center / Gym: Fully equipped for cardio and strength training
- Spa / Wellness Area: Massages, facials, body treatments, and wellness services
- Executive / Business Lounges & Meeting Rooms: Flexible conference, boardroom, and event spaces
- Business Center Services: Copying, printing, internet support, and support staff
- Secure On-Site Parking
- Airport Transfer / Shuttle Service: Available on request
- Concierge & Tour Desk: Arranges Nairobi National Park day trips, airport transfers, city excursions, and local guides
- 24-Hour Reception / Front Desk
- Luggage Storage & Valet Services
The property is designed to meet the needs of both the traveler in transit and the guest integrating city + safari stays.
💰 Rates & Booking Insights
DoubleTree by Hilton Nairobi is mid-to-upper tier in pricing compared to airport hotels. Rates depend on room category, view, and hotel occupancy.
Examples (subject to seasonal variation):
- Standard Rooms: USD 160–200 per night (breakfast included)
- Executive Rooms / Club Level: USD 200–250 per night
- Suites / Junior Suites: USD 250+ per night
Booking directly often provides better cancellation terms, loyalty program benefits, and upgrade opportunities. Advance bookings are advisable, especially during peak safari seasons and holiday periods.
🦒 Appeal for Nairobi National Park Visitors
DoubleTree is well suited for guests planning to visit Nairobi National Park. While not directly inside the park, its proximity, amenities, and branded service make it a strong contender for safari-adjacent stays.
Safari-Friendly Features
- Short drive to the park gates (10–20 minutes) enabling early entry or late departure
- Flexible dining hours to accommodate early safari breakfasts or late returns
- Luxury amenities for refreshing after dusty game drives — pool, spa, lounge
- Comprehensive concierge support to connect with trusted guides, arrange park transport, and manage logistics
- Secure place to leave luggage while you do a half-day or multi-day safari
For travelers combining air travel, city time, and safari legs, DoubleTree offers a balanced base — more comfortable and service-rich than budget options, yet more accessible to the park and airports than some city hotels.
🌟 Guest Experience: Pros & Cons
Strengths
- Excellent balance of location, amenities, and brand reliability
- Clean, modern rooms with good sound insulation
- Quality dining with multiple restaurant options
- Professional and courteous staff delivering consistent service
- Facilities like pool and spa that elevate guest experience beyond airport lodging
- Strong security, parking, and convenience
Limitations
- Rooms facing the road may experience occasional traffic noise
- Some guests report shuttle scheduling timing issues — must coordinate in advance
- Rates often higher compared to simpler airport or boutique options
- No direct wildlife viewing or park frontage — you still need a vehicle and driver
- Dining and service during off-peak hours may be limited
Overall, guests tend to praise the combination of comfort and convenience — especially for transitions between flights and safaris.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is DoubleTree by Hilton Nairobi close to Nairobi National Park?
Yes. It is roughly 10 km (15–20 minutes) from the park’s gates, making it a feasible base for daily game drives.
2. How far is the hotel from JKIA?
About 10–20 minutes, depending on traffic and which gate or terminal you use.
3. Does the hotel offer airport shuttle / transfers?
Yes, transfers are available upon request and can be arranged via the front desk.
4. Is breakfast included in the room rate?
Yes, most rate plans include a full buffet breakfast.
5. Does the hotel have a swimming pool and spa?
Yes — guests can enjoy an outdoor pool, fitness center, and spa services to unwind between safari legs.
6. Can I book Nairobi National Park safaris from the hotel?
Absolutely. The concierge or tour desk coordinates park visits, picks up from the hotel, and arranges driver-guides.
7. Is Wi-Fi free?
Yes, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
8. Is the hotel suitable for families?
Yes. Room configurations and suite options support families. Child policies vary by age and occupancy.
9. Can I check in early or check out late?
Yes, subject to room availability — typical requests are often accommodated for transit travelers.
10. Is the hotel safe?
Yes, the hotel features secure gated entry, surveillance, and well-lit grounds, making it considered safe for international and domestic guests.
🧭 Final Thoughts
DoubleTree by Hilton Nairobi offers a compelling mix of brand reliability, strategic location, and comfortable amenities — making it a solid choice for those planning Nairobi National Park safaris or airport transitions.
While it doesn’t offer direct park frontage, its proximity, robust features (pool, spa, dining, conference), and strong service reputation ensure that you get a balance of luxury and practicality. Whether you’re arriving late, heading out early, or catching a safari in between, DoubleTree positions you well — combining ease of access with elevated comfort.
