Where to Stay in Nairobi as a Tourist (Tested & Approved)
If you’re planning a trip to Kenya, chances are your first stop will be Nairobi, the country’s lively (and sometimes chaotic) capital. Whether you’re just spending a night before heading on safari or staying a few days to explore, choosing the right area to stay in Nairobi as a tourist is key.
Nairobi has a mix of neighborhoods, some are safe and convenient for visitors, while others are best avoided, especially if it’s your first time in the city. After a couple visits, I’ve figured out where to stay in Nairobi for the best experience, from safe hotels in Westlands to affordable serviced apartments near Yaya Centre.
In this guide, I’ll share:
- The best areas to stay in Nairobi as a tourist
- My personal recommendations for hotels and serviced apartments
- A few tips to make your first night in Nairobi stress-free
So, if you’re wondering where to stay in Nairobi before your safari or during your city visit, this post has you covered.
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Best Areas to Stay in Nairobi
Nairobi is a big, bustling city, and where you stay can completely change your experience. Some neighborhoods are perfect for first-time visitors who want safety and convenience, while others are better suited for longer stays, quieter vibes, or a tighter budget. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most popular areas for tourists, what they’re like, and who they’re best for.
Westlands - Best for First-Time Visitors
Westlands is the go-to area for most tourists in Nairobi. It’s where you’ll find a high concentration of hotels, restaurants, bars, and shopping centers geared towards international visitors. The vibe is lively but not overwhelming, with a mix of modern high-rises, malls, and leafy residential streets.
Transport connections: Around 20–30 minutes from Nairobi’s CBD (without heavy traffic), about 40–60 minutes from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Ubers are plentiful and affordable here, making it easy to get around.
Access to attractions: A good base for day trips to Nairobi National Park, Giraffe Centre, and Karen Blixen Museum. Most tour operators pick up from this area.
Safety: Generally considered safe for tourists, though you should still avoid walking alone late at night. Many hotels and serviced apartments have security staff and gated entrances.
Who it’s for: First-time visitors, couples, solo travelers, and anyone who wants convenience and easy logistics without venturing too far out of the city center.
Kilimani / Yaya Centre Area - Best for Longer Stays and Airbnbs
If you’re staying a bit longer or prefer a quieter, more residential feel, Kilimani is a great alternative. The area is popular with expats and has plenty of serviced apartments with 24/7 security, ideal for travelers who like more space than a hotel room offers.
Transport connections: Around 15–20 minutes from the CBD and 30–45 minutes from the airport (traffic permitting). It’s slightly further from Nairobi National Park than Westlands but still within easy reach by Uber or arranged tours.
Access to attractions: Close to Yaya Centre (a modern shopping mall with restaurants and supermarkets), and a short ride to Karen, where you’ll find the Giraffe Centre and elephant orphanage.
Safety: Feels safe during the day and early evening, especially in gated apartment complexes with guards. Like elsewhere in Nairobi, avoid poorly lit streets at night.
Who it’s for: Travelers who want a “home base” vibe, digital nomads, families, and those who prefer an apartment over a hotel while still being close to restaurants and shops.
Karen - Best for Nature and a Quiet Escape
Karen is a leafy, upscale suburb on the outskirts of Nairobi, known for its spacious villas, boutique lodges, and proximity to nature. It’s named after the Danish author Karen Blixen and gives a more relaxed, countryside vibe compared to central Nairobi.
Transport connections: Around 30–45 minutes from the CBD and 45–60 minutes from the airport. Traffic can be heavy during rush hour, so plan accordingly.
Access to attractions: Perfect if you want to be close to Nairobi National Park, Giraffe Centre, David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, and Karen Blixen Museum. Most accommodations here cater to safari-goers or travelers starting their Kenya trip.
Safety: Considered one of Nairobi’s safest areas, with many properties offering private security. Streets are quieter, but it’s still best to use taxis at night.
Who it’s for: Couples, families, and anyone wanting a more peaceful, green base before or after a safari.
Nairobi CBD (City Centre) - Best for Budget Travelers
The Central Business District is where you’ll find budget hotels and guesthouses, but it’s not usually the first choice for tourists. It’s busy, a bit chaotic, and less safe at night compared to other neighborhoods. Still, it can be a practical option if you’re on a tight budget or want to be near public transport hubs like the train or matatu stations.
Transport connections: Excellent for buses and trains, about 20–30 minutes from the airport without traffic.
Access to attractions: Walking distance to Nairobi National Museum, Kenyatta International Conference Centre, and Uhuru Park.
Safety: More petty crime risk after dark, avoid walking alone. Choose a hotel with good reviews and reliable security.
Who it’s for: Budget travelers or those with an early morning train or bus departure.
Avoid Nairobi CBD (downtown) for your first visit. It’s not unsafe per se, but it can be hectic and a bit sketchy at night. You’ll have a much better experience in Westlands, Kilimani, or Karen.
Below is the map of Nairobi where all of the mentioned neighbourhoods are pinned.
Where We Stayed (Personal Experience)
As first-time visitors to Nairobi, we knew we wanted a safe hotel for tourists, something comfortable and well-connected to all the main sights. We split our stay between a hotel in Westlands and a serviced apartment near Yaya Centre, and both worked out perfectly.
PrideInn Westlands Luxury Boutique Hotel
This was our first stop after landing in Nairobi. PrideInn is in the heart of Westlands, surrounded by restaurants, coffee shops, and just a short Uber ride (10–15 minutes) from Nairobi National Museum and the city center. We loved that the area felt lively but not chaotic, and the hotel had 24/7 security, great breakfast, and a super comfortable bed, exactly what you need after a long flight. If you want to see more details, photos, and prices, you can find them here.
The Crossroads Hotel, Westlands
The second time around, we only had one night in the city before flying home, so we went for a budget-friendly option, Crossroads Hotel in Westlands. Crossroads wasn’t fancy, but it ticked all the boxes for a one-night layover: clean sheets, a hot shower, and a couple of decent dinner spots just across the road. Plus, it was still close enough to the city center and the airport for an easy transfer the next morning. Definitely recommend it for a quick stopover in Nairobi.
Airbnb Serviced Apartment near Yaya Centre
After our safari, we wanted something a bit more “homey,” so we booked a serviced apartment via Airbnb. The building had its own security team, check-in was easy, and the apartment itself was modern, spacious, and equipped with a small kitchen. The Yaya Centre mall was within walking distance, which made grocery shopping and dining out a breeze (there’s a CJ’s right in front of the building). It’s a bit farther from the city center compared to Westlands, but still only a 20–30 minute Uber ride to Nairobi National Park or the Giraffe Centre.
The apartment complex we stayed in is called Staroot Residences, you can try to find it on Airbnb, or find similar serviced apartment complexes on Booking.com.
If you’re heading to Nairobi, chances are a safari is on your itinerary too, here’s my full guide with tips for making your Kenya safari smooth and unforgettable.
Final Thougths
Nairobi might just be a quick stop on your way to a safari, but picking the right area and hotel can make or break your first impression of Kenya. The city is big, busy, and a little chaotic, but with the right base, it’s also exciting, full of life, and surprisingly easy to navigate.
If you’re new to Nairobi, stick to safer, well-connected neighborhoods like Westlands or Kilimani, and don’t overcomplicate it, choose a hotel or serviced apartment that ticks the basics: security, comfort, and good access to airports or main attractions.
We loved having a stress-free first and last night in Nairobi before heading off on safari, and I’d 100% recommend doing the same. Trust me, after a long-haul flight or a dusty ride back from the savannah, having a safe, comfortable, and easy-to-reach place to crash is worth every penny.
FAQ: Where to Stay in Nairobi as a Tourist
What is the safest area to stay in Nairobi?
Westlands and Kilimani are popular choices for first-time visitors. They’re well-connected to main attractions, packed with restaurants and shops, and have plenty of safe, well-reviewed hotels.
Are hotels in Nairobi safe for tourists?
Yes—most mid-range and high-end hotels in Nairobi offer 24/7 security, gated entrances, and secure parking. Stick to reputable properties in areas like Westlands or Karen for extra peace of mind.
Where should I avoid staying in Nairobi?
Many travelers avoid the CBD (downtown Nairobi) because it can feel hectic and less safe at night. For a more relaxed stay, Westlands or Kilimani are better options, especially before or after a safari.