Overview
Hemingways Nairobi is a five-star, all-suite boutique hotel nestled in the leafy Karen suburb, at the foot of the scenic Ngong Hills. Famed for its understated elegance, personalized butler service, and tranquil gardens, Hemingways Nairobi offers one of the most exclusive and serene stays in the city. It is a favored choice for discerning safari travelers, celebrities, business executives, and families seeking luxury, privacy, and an authentic Kenyan welcome.
Location & Access
- Address: Mbagathi Ridge, Karen, Nairobi.
- Distance to Nairobi National Park: 8–10 minutes by car to the park’s main gate—ideal for early morning or late afternoon game drives.
- Airport Access: 30–40 minutes to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), and 20–30 minutes to Wilson Airport for domestic and Masai Mara flights.
- Nearby Attractions: Minutes from Giraffe Centre, David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, Karen Blixen Museum, The Hub Karen Mall, Mamba Village, Bomas of Kenya, Karen Country Club (for golf).
Accommodation
Hemingways Nairobi offers 45 palatial suites designed with a blend of plantation and contemporary style:
- Deluxe Suites (80 m²):
Spacious living and sleeping areas, walk-in closets, marble bathrooms with double vanities, rain showers, and deep soaking tubs, private balconies or terraces with garden or Ngong Hills views. - Executive Suites (80 m²):
Extra amenities and priority views, some with separate lounge. - Blixen Suite (160 m²):
Two bedrooms, living and dining area, extra-large balcony, ideal for families or extended stays. - Hemingway Suite (240 m²):
The hotel’s flagship, with a grand living and dining space, kitchenette, bar, extra amenities, and panoramic views. - All Suites Feature:
24-hour butler service, complimentary Wi-Fi, minibar, air conditioning, premium toiletries, Nespresso machines, satellite TV, in-room safe, luxury bedding, plush bathrobes and slippers, blackout curtains, evening turndown, and fresh flowers.
Dining & Bars
- The Brasserie:
Elegant, open-kitchen restaurant with an international menu—steaks, seafood, Kenyan specialties, afternoon tea, extensive wine and cocktail lists. Menus cater to dietary needs and can be personalized. - Bar & Lounge:
Classic bar and terrace, perfect for cocktails, sundowners, and relaxed meals with Ngong Hills as backdrop. - Afternoon Tea:
Popular with guests and Nairobi locals alike; served daily with a selection of pastries and teas. - Private/In-Room Dining:
Meals can be enjoyed on your suite’s balcony or terrace, arranged by your butler.
Wellness & Recreation
- Hemingways Spa:
Full-service spa with holistic treatments, signature massages, beauty therapies, facials, and hydrotherapy. - Fitness Centre:
Well-equipped gym with cardio and weights, open to all guests. - Heated Outdoor Pool:
Large, surrounded by sun loungers and lush gardens. - Gardens & Riverside Walks:
Landscaped grounds and riverside paths ideal for morning walks or yoga. - Boutique & Gift Shop:
Sells local art, crafts, jewelry, souvenirs, and select Kenyan fashion.
Events, Meetings & Celebrations
- Event Spaces:
Private meeting rooms, boardrooms, and venues for weddings, cocktail parties, or business retreats. Outdoor lawns are perfect for garden receptions. - Corporate Services:
Secretarial support, high-speed Wi-Fi, audio-visual equipment, and concierge coordination for off-site excursions.
Guest Services & Facilities
- 24-hour butler and concierge service
- Airport transfers, chauffeur service, and private car hire
- Valet parking and ample secure self-parking
- Luggage storage and express check-in/check-out
- Laundry, dry cleaning, and shoe-shine service
- Babysitting and children’s amenities (cribs, high chairs)
- Wheelchair-accessible rooms, ramps, and elevators
- Multi-lingual staff
- 24-hour security, gated grounds, and medical support on call
Family & Group Features
- Spacious family suites and interconnecting rooms
- Custom children’s menus and welcome packs
- Babysitting on request
- Special packages for small groups, weddings, and VIP events
Guest Reviews: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Suites are among the largest and most elegant in Nairobi, each with a private terrace and premium amenities.
- Outstanding butler service—staff anticipate needs, personalize experiences, and handle everything discreetly.
- Beautiful, peaceful gardens create a resort-like escape from city bustle.
- Dining receives top marks for quality, variety, and presentation.
- Quiet location yet close to Nairobi National Park and Karen attractions.
- High security and sense of privacy, popular with celebrities and diplomats.
- Excellent spa and wellness facilities for post-safari rejuvenation.
Cons:
- High nightly rates—best suited to luxury travelers, honeymooners, or special occasions.
- Heated pool is still cool in Nairobi’s colder months.
- Not in city center—less suitable for travelers with business in downtown Nairobi.
- Occasional minor delays in meal service during peak occupancy.
- The tranquil setting may feel a bit secluded to those seeking nightlife or urban energy.
Who Should Stay Here?
- Luxury safari travelers seeking a restful base before or after the Masai Mara, Amboseli, or other Kenyan adventures.
- Couples and honeymooners looking for romance, privacy, and indulgence.
- Families and small groups desiring space, service, and convenience.
- Corporate and VIP guests who require privacy, security, and seamless amenities.
- Wellness enthusiasts wanting a world-class spa and serene grounds.
Tips for a Perfect Stay
- Request a Ngong Hills view suite for the best sunrise and sunset vistas.
- Book spa treatments and afternoon tea in advance, especially in peak season.
- Arrange an early breakfast or take-away if heading to Nairobi National Park for a sunrise game drive.
- Ask your butler for recommendations on local excursions, shopping, or cultural experiences in Karen.
- Use the concierge to coordinate transfers, park visits, or private city tours for a worry-free stay.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rooms/Suites | 45 all-suite (80–240 m²), private terrace, butler service |
| Location | Karen, 10 min to Nairobi NP, near top attractions |
| Dining | Brasserie, bar, terrace, in-room dining, afternoon tea |
| Wellness | Full spa, gym, heated pool, yoga/gardens |
| Events | Meeting rooms, lawns, wedding and group packages |
| Family Friendly | Family suites, kids’ menus, babysitting |
| Services | Airport transfers, 24-hr concierge, valet, boutique |
| Ideal For | Luxury safari, romance, families, corporate VIPs |
Conclusion
Hemingways Nairobi delivers an unmatched blend of luxury, privacy, and personalized service, making it a stand-out choice for travelers seeking the best of Nairobi before or after their safari. Its spacious suites, gourmet dining, lush gardens, and attentive butler team ensure a flawless stay. With proximity to Nairobi National Park, Karen’s best attractions, and both airports, Hemingways Nairobi is a serene, convenient, and truly memorable base for your Kenyan journey.
