Vacation rentals in Nairobi

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Popular amenities for Nairobi vacation rentals

Stay near Nairobi's top sights

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport30 locals recommend
Garden City Mall76 locals recommend
TRM - Thika Road Mall50 locals recommend
Yaya Centre250 locals recommend
Nairobi National Park419 locals recommend
Two Rivers Mall164 locals recommend

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Nairobi

  • Total rentals

    24K properties

  • Total number of reviews

    111K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    8.2K properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    5.1K properties allow pets

  • Rentals with a pool

    6.8K properties have a pool

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    12K properties have a dedicated workspace

Your guide to Nairobi

All About Nairobi

With a national park at its doorstep and wildlife all around, it’s no wonder Nairobi is known as the safari capital of Africa. Kenya’s capital offers outdoor recreation within the metropolitan area and its outskirts, as Nairobi is home to some of the finest gardens and parks in the country, and lush forests are just minutes from the city. And while that proximity to nature might be its biggest draw, the city’s neighborhoods are also worth exploring. North of the city center, Westlands is home to most of Nairobi's restaurants and bars, while Karen is more upscale, with boutique shopping and swanky bistros. Langata is the gateway to Nairobi National Park, where you’ll find a popular museum and the city’s waterpark.

For a taste of everyday life, head to the City Park Market to pick up fruits and vegetables and taste authentic local dishes like nyama choma (roasted meat, often goat) with kachumbari (onion and tomato salad with chilli). Another market not to miss is Maasai Market, where you can pick up traditional East African goods like handmade woven baskets, beaded jewelry, and textiles.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Nairobi

Nairobi’s high elevation means it experiences relatively mild conditions year round compared to other African cities. The most pleasant time to stay in a rental house in Nairobi is in the dry season, from June to October, when you can expect sunny days with little chance of rain. It’s also the best time of the year to see the abundance of wildlife in Nairobi National Park.

In June, the Madaraka Day festival celebrates self-rule in Kenya and the city comes alive with dancing, music, and food. The warmest part of the year is from December to early March, when you can expect hot and dry days with cooler temperatures in the evenings. The city experiences rainy seasons from mid-March to May, with a shorter one in November and December.


Top things to do in Nairobi

Nairobi National Park

On the city’s outskirts is Nairobi National Park, where wildlife roam freely against a backdrop of the city skyline. The 45-acre park is home to the highest number of endangered black rhinos in the world, as well as lions, hyenas, cheetahs, leopards, zebras, and giraffes. This national park also has an extensive wetland area, which offers a haven for over 400 bird species. You can experience it all on a safari walk or on a guided safari drive tour.

Karura Forest

Just outside Nairobi you’ll find the tranquil Karura Forest, one of the largest urban forests in the world. There are more than 2,000 acres of woodland, with streams, waterfalls, and scenic trails for walking and biking. This forest is home to indigenous wildlife including monkeys, antelopes, bush pigs, and more than 200 species of bird.

Nairobi National Museum

Spend a few hours exploring the Nairobi National Museum’s collection of artwork and cultural pieces from some of Kenya’s finest local artists. The highlight is the museum’s paleontology gallery, where you can see a large collection of hominid fossils, and bones from hundreds of local birds and mammals. The museum sits within a botanical garden containing many local medicinal plants and herbs.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Nairobi?

    Nairobi enjoys a temperate climate year-round. The average temperatures range from 12-27°C (54-81°F). The city experiences two rainy seasons, with the long rains occurring from March to May, and the short rains from October to December.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Nairobi?

    Popular activities include exploring the Nairobi National Park, visiting the Nairobi National Museum, shopping at the Maasai Market, and taking a historical tour at the Karen Blixen Museum. For nature enthusiasts, hiking in Karura Forest Reserve or Ngong Hills is often recommended.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Nairobi?

    The most popular period to visit Nairobi is during the dry seasons, from June to October and from December to March. During this time, the weather is warm and wildlife viewing is optimal. Events such as the Nairobi International Film Festival in November and the Safari Sevens rugby event in October draw many visitors.

  • What are the best places to stay in Nairobi?

    Westlands is a bustling area known for its shopping centers and restaurants. Karen, a serene suburb, is near major attractions like the Nairobi National Park. Kilimani is a cosmopolitan neighborhood known for its diverse food scene. For budget-conscious travelers, Downtown Nairobi provides affordable accommodations.

  • What are the best places to visit in Nairobi?

    Explore the Nairobi National Park, a wildlife park within city limits. Visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, celebrated for its elephant orphanage. Discover the Nairobi National Museum, housing a vast collection of art, paleontology, and ethnography. Lastly, immerse yourself in history at the Karen Blixen Museum, named after the famed Out of Africa author.

  • What are some hiking trails in Nairobi?

    Karura Forest Reserve has several hiking trails through waterfalls, bamboo forests, and picnic spots. Another choice is Ngong Hills, offering a moderate hike with panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley. Oloolua Nature Trail, located in Karen, is a serene spot for bird-watching and picnicking.

  • What are some family activities to do in Nairobi?

    Families can enjoy a day at the Nairobi National Park for a game drive, visit the Giraffe Centre to learn about conservation efforts, or explore the Nairobi Railway Museum to discover Kenya's railway history. The Nairobi Mamba Village is another great choice for families, offering crocodile viewing and horseback riding.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Nairobi?

    Take a day trip to Hell's Gate National Park, about 90km (56 miles) from Nairobi, known for its scenic landscapes and diverse wildlife. Another option is Lake Naivasha, which is about 95km (59 miles) away and known for bird-watching and boat rides. For a cultural experience, visit the Maasai Market, a colorful open-air market selling handmade Kenyan crafts.

  • What types of vacation rentals are available in Nairobi?

    Uncover the perfect home-away-from-home with our diverse selection of vacation rentals in Nairobi. From over 1,780 house rentals to over 15,220 apartment rentals, we've got you covered. For even more variety, explore our Airbnb Categories to find the ideal space for your getaway.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Nairobi?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 11,650 vacation rentals in Nairobi featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

Destinations to explore

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