Where to Stay in Nairobi

Nairobi's main commercial, dining and nightlife hub, packed with hotels, malls and restaurants. It's the easiest all-round base for first-time visitors who want walkable errands and a lively evening scene.

A relaxed, increasingly popular residential and commercial area with a strong cafe, restaurant and bar scene. Great for returning visitors or longer stays who want a local feel without the CBD crush.

The bustling historic centre, focused around Kenyatta Avenue, with the widest range of budget hotels and the city's main transport connections. It suits first-time visitors who want to be near government buildings, markets and the national museum, but expect noise and crowds.

A leafy, upscale suburb south-west of the centre, close to the Giraffe Centre, Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and Nairobi National Park. Ideal for families or safari stopovers who want space, calm and easy access to wildlife attractions.

Nairobi's corporate and conference district, just south-west of the CBD, with a concentration of modern business hotels. Good for short business trips or travellers who want a quieter, secure base with easy access to the airport road.

A secure, green diplomatic and UN district north of the city centre, home to embassies and the UN compound. It suits official visitors, families and anyone wanting a calm, guarded environment near Karura Forest.

A calm, established residential suburb between Westlands and Karen, with a growing selection of boutique hotels, cafes and small malls. It appeals to returning visitors or longer-stay travellers who want a relaxed, local feel.