Karen is situated in the southwest suburbs of Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. It is known as a relatively high-income and expat neighborhood, with many estates and villas nestled behind gated walls and bougainvillea. Nearby shopping centers and restaurants are well equipped to meet any traveler’s needs with a wide range of cuisine, groceries and shops. Depending on traffic, the sights and sounds of downtown Nairobi are not far away and best reached by using Uber or Taxify. Closer to home, you’ll find the Giraffe Center where the whole family can feed and even pet the friendly giraffes that live there. Take a look at these Airbnb vacation rentals for more ideas on where to stay.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 06, 2024.
1. Karen garden villa
This immaculate villa is ideal for large groups or families as it can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests with four bedrooms and 4.5 baths. The interior boasts decor from Asian, Western and African cultures and has plenty of large communal spaces for dining and lounging in the gardens. It is situated near the Giraffe Center, Karen Blixen Museum, Elephant Orphanage and Mamba Village.
Nairobi, Nairobi County, Kenya
4.21 km (2.7 mi) from Karen Country ClubAccommodates: 10
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
2nd: a beautifully appointed residence with numerous rooms allowing for private moments or very sociable timesCleanliness:
what a lovely quiet and clean placeit is beautiful spotless and uniquemonica also ensures it is incredibly cleanthe house is maintained well and we found it very cleanthe villa is clean comfortable and conveniently locatedHost:
nina is a great hostlovely house keeper and responsive hostnina was a wonderful host and was all the time available over emailnina was an awesome host and very helpfulnina was very responsiveRead more reviewsLocation:
central and ideal for familyconvenient secure location & great valuegreat house in a great locationthe house is located in a excellent part of town close to many attractionsclose to many fun things to do
2. Stylish A-frame cabin with a private deck (from USD 118)
This stylish A-frame cabin is an amazing getaway spot suitable for solo adventurers, couples, or two travel buddies. It features a fully furnished living space complete with Wifi and a high-definition TV. Board games and a sound system are also provided for more indoor entertainment. The private deck outside is perfect for relaxation as it comes with comfortable seating and a chiminea fireplace.
Guests who want to explore the surrounding area can also enjoy easy access to several points of interest. The Hub Mall and Karen Centre are located just within 2 km (1.2 mi) away from the property.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the house contains all the necessities which made our stay comfortableloved the appliances in the kitchen that made it so easy to make breakie and a great coffeewhat's cool spot the a-frame is so cozy well-appointed and offers a great secure locationCleanliness:
it was also very cleanvery clean and equipped with everything you would needclean great bed great shower with pressure and heatgracious host clean and organised spacethe a-frame was spotless cleanHost:
alicia is a lovely host very responsive and kindalisa is a great hostthe host is really sweet and great at communicatingbeautiful home and kind hostalisa is an amazing host would highly recommendRead more reviewsLocation:
great location within a 20-minute walk or five-minute drive to restaurants covid testing center etcits walking distance to great restaurants and shopsgreat spot super convenient location to access different activities in karenwe loved the location the place and everything elseit is a peaceful location with beautiful touches both inside and out
3. Peaceful hideaway with a private garden
With an exclusive outdoor sitting area and a garden, this cottage is a lovely spot to get away from it all. It also features a beautiful location in a private neighborhood so you can expect peace and privacy during your stay. In-unit amenities of the rental include Wifi, a fireplace, and a fully equipped kitchen. Parking is also free on both the street and the premises, perfect if you’re planning to bring your car during your vacation.
Some notable places within driving distance are restaurants, shops, and a number of tourist attractions.
Nairobi, Nairobi County, Kenya
4.01 km (2.5 mi) from Karen Country ClubSuperhost
Accommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we enjoy cooking and the cottage kitchen was well set up and stocked with pots pans etcgreat space comfortable space to relax indoors and outvery comfortable quiet and homelywe really appreciated the well-appointed kitchen and beautiful groundsCleanliness:
the place is always super clean and serenevery clean easy accessibility to places in karenwe've stayed here three times and it's always spotlessly clean cosy and relaxing5 stars for cleanliness and thoughtful touches (fresh flowers bread milk and eggs in the kitchen for breakfast)quiet clean well equipped place with responsive staffHost:
the staff is amazing and quick to respond/ helpthe staff are very helpful and kindhelpful and cordial staffdid not see much of the hosts but they were very helpful via message when help was requiredlovely hosts we will be staying here again come januaryRead more reviewsLocation:
beautiful location that’s secure and peacefulperfect location and perfect spotdefinitely a great find in nairobi secure quiet and lovely yet close to anything in karengreat place to stay lovely location amazing hostsclose to good food to take out and shopping the cats were great company
4. Light-filled cabin with a fully fenced backyard (from USD 70)
This two-bedroom cabin features oversized windows that not only fill the place with natural light but also let in lovely views of the outdoors. It also comes with a private garden and patio where you can relax and take in the peaceful surroundings. The backyard of this property is private and fully fenced, a perfect playground for your pets. Other amenities also include Wifi and a portable heater.
While the kitchen is well equipped with essentials, you can also opt for local food options by checking out the restaurants near the property. Coffee shops, museums, and wildlife conservancies are easily reachable from the rental as well.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the cottage is well-designed decorated comfortable and lovelyCleanliness:
the place was super clean cosy and perfectclean airy with all the kitchen accessories you could wish forexcellent wifi a washing machine a full kitchen clean sheets and towels and an absolutely lovely atmosphereHost:
the host was nice and very accommodatingthe staff on site were very helpful during our stayour hosts were wonderful and very hospitablethe cabin is lovely and the host and staff very friendlymette is a very nice host as wellRead more reviewsLocation:
great location in karen with everything needed for a short staythe house was wonderful in a great location for an escape while still close to lots of great restaurantsthe location is great if you are looking to stay in karenperfect stay good location good communicationthe location is great and it had everything we needed
5. Unique container cottage near The Hub Karen
Made from two shipping containers, this rental is a quirky yet comfortable home base for a small group of travelers. It is conveniently close to several dining options and shopping spots. The Hub Karen, which offers a mix of local and global retail outlets, is just within walking distance of this property.
Inside the rental is a cozy living space where you can relax comfortably after a long day in Karen. It comes with heating for warmth and Wifi for entertainment. Cooking basics are also provided in the kitchen. On lovely evenings, you can dine on the large verandah with ample outdoor seating.
Nairobi, Nairobi County, Kenya
3.47 km (2.2 mi) from Karen Country ClubAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
nikki was so kind as to immediately send a small heater for me to warm the sleeping areathe cottage has a fully equipped kitchen running hot water a bathroom and a very comfortable bedthe cottage is completely perfect beautifully decorated quiet and so comfortableCleanliness:
we were warmly welcomed and everything was very clean and comfortablethe facilities are clean cozy and great value for the moneyHost:
the hosts were very helpful and kindthe host nikki is amazing and her dogs are very friendlythe host is amazing and will always be there to assist you in case of anythingreally quaint and different space with amazing hostsnikki and her family are really nice and kind peopleRead more reviewsLocation:
great location in a really beautiful settingalso a great locationsuper cute house that was a perfect place to stay before heading to the airport the next morningpeaceful tranquil setting close to karen shopping centre and a 2 minute drive from the hubi couldn’t have asked for a better location for me was perfect 10 minute walk to the hub mall
6. Modern oasis with a heated pool (from USD 136)
Retreat to your own modern oasis by staying in this luxurious apartment. Tucked away in a quiet and serene setting, this apartment boasts a large heated swimming pool with a waterfall feature. Right beside the pool area are sun loungers and a swing set, perfect for relaxation. Other amenities also include cooking essentials in the kitchen and high-speed Wifi throughout the property.
When you’re not cooling off in the pool, you can also explore some notable places nearby, including trendy restaurants, bars, and cafes.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the upstairs of the living room is open air which made a lovely environmentwe really appreciated the hot water bottles to help keep the bed warmour kids loved swimming in the heated pool and had fun playing in the waterfallthe children particularly enjoyed the poolthe home was very comfortable (note: they have upgraded the living room furniture to a very nice sectional)Cleanliness:
it was spacey and very cleanthe apartment is perfectly clean and super comfortablethe apartment is beautiful and cleancould not fault the cleanliness staff and surroundingsthe apartment contained everything we needed and more was beautifully decorated and spaciousHost:
the staff were kind and helpfulalso the staff was nice and helpfulvery peaceful and the staff is excellentthank you for having us and thank all the staff for usthis was a very nice escape the staff were friendly responsive and very accommodatingRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is situated nicelythe location was very quiet and felt safea beautiful gem of an apartment in a good location for visiting the karen area of nairobiwe liked the close proximity to the hub waterfront the giraffe centre etckaren is a great location to escape busy nairobi and grocery stories and food is accessible
7. An old-school bus in a quiet paradise (from USD 124)
There is nothing like staying in an old-school bus as your accommodation. This cozy bus can be found tucked away in the beautiful suburbs of Karen, a quiet paradise in Nairobi, which is why it is perfect for couples looking to enjoy a romantic escape or families looking to enjoy some quality time together. Two double beds and two single beds are available for six people. Absorb the tranquility of the surrounding in the outdoor area that comes with outdoor seating and fireplace.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
gorgeous fresh flowers colourful fabric cushions intricate details hot showergreat amenities like coffee water filter books the cd collection too everything was clean and comfortablethe kitchen was well supplied and we managed to warm up our christmas eve dinnerupstairs are two beds in which we slept very wellCleanliness:
very clean and well equippedunique charming fun clean comfortable go stayin the bathroom it is comfortable to shower and it was very cleansafe and secure clean and quietHost:
karen is a great host and is very quick to respond to any questionssuper responsive and the staff are very helpfulwell maintained and a very pleasant and open hostkaren is very kind and helpful with everything thingthe guard was very friendly and helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
easy to find locationthe bus is beautiful the location is serenethe bus is nicely decoratedfunky different wonderfulnsetting kids loved idea of a buslovely bus ~one hour to the airport~convient
8. Makena's Place Karen - Kichana & Gecko Room (from USD 30)
Makena’s Place offers three different rooms including the Kichana and Gecko Rooms which can sleep one person each. This Airbnb has a boutique vibe with African touches throughout the home. Breakfast is included and you are welcome to explore the surrounding gardens and take advantage of the living and dining spaces. You may even make some new friends, as Makena’s Place is home to two playful and sweet dogs. It is only a seven-minute walk to Karen shopping center or five minutes to the famous Talisman restaurant.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
having wifi was awesomeloved talking with chichi and enjoyed fresh breakfasts dailybreakfast is available each morning with great coffee and delicious tea with fresh ginger if you'd likealways a delicious breakfast preparedwe were made to feel very comfortable and treated chichi's place like our ownCleanliness:
the room and airbnb space was spacious clean comfortable and honestly perfectchichi is a great host clean quiet space - highly recommendedtheir home is quiet clean and comfortableit is neat and clean and chichi is a wonderful hostess with really good staffshe has amazing taste and her house was clean and invitingHost:
she is a great hostchichi was one of the best hosts you could imaginechichi and makena were wonderful hostschichi is a wonderful hostchichi is a caring welcoming and reliable hostRead more reviewsLocation:
i liked the location which is close to public transport and the shopping mallchichi’s place was beautiful and perfectly located in karenchichi's place is a paradiseit’s location is perfect making easy access to good restaurants and shopsthe hub shopping mall (arguably the best mall in kenya) is also a stones throw away
9. An Irish welcome in Karen - River Cottage One (from USD 69)
This self-catering log cottage has views of a private lake and large garden. The lounge, dining and kitchen area are equipped for all your needs. The two-bedroom home can sleep four guests comfortably. Upon request, the hosts can arrange to show you the local sites such as the Nairobi National Park, Elephant Orphanage or Giraffe Center. Previous guests speak highly of the warm welcome by the hosts and the easily accessible location.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
key pointers for recommendation: fast wifi hot shower electric blanket friendly staff ready to helpthe kitchen is well equipped to handle about any fish you would like to whip upCleanliness:
place was spotless and atmosphere is fantasticthe space was clean and everything we needed for our short stay was availableHost:
they were very nice hostshosts were lovely would definitely recommendgreat host and great housegreat host very helpful and serene placei would have no qualms about booking an extended stay here and the hosts were amazingRead more reviewsLocation:
the place was well located and suited our needs wellreally relaxed place in a wonderful locationthe cottage is very nice and location is nice and close to karenif you need a place to get away relax or concentrateamazing place to stay at would definitely come back for another day
10. Spacious midcentury African home for ten guests in Karen
Travelers to Nairobi, Kenya looking for a more local experience and more interaction with Karen’s locale can book a homestay at this private and secured garden villa at Karen. Huge groups of ten, can definitely make full use of this Asian, Western, and African indigenous-designed home, along with its amenities when in Karen. The lovely home is spacious and is fully equipped with access to a full kitchen with updated cooking appliances, a living room with flatscreen TV and Wifi access, and clean functional bathrooms with tubs. The home can accomodate ten guests in a king-sized bed, one double bed, and five single beds, along with an indoor fireplace, free parking, a patio, and a backyard garden.
Nairobi, Nairobi County, Kenya
4.21 km (2.7 mi) from Karen Country ClubAccommodates: 10
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
2nd: a beautifully appointed residence with numerous rooms allowing for private moments or very sociable timesCleanliness:
what a lovely quiet and clean placeit is beautiful spotless and uniquemonica also ensures it is incredibly cleanthe house is maintained well and we found it very cleanthe villa is clean comfortable and conveniently locatedHost:
nina is a great hostlovely house keeper and responsive hostnina was a wonderful host and was all the time available over emailnina was an awesome host and very helpfulnina was very responsiveRead more reviewsLocation:
central and ideal for familyconvenient secure location & great valuegreat house in a great locationthe house is located in a excellent part of town close to many attractionsclose to many fun things to do
11. Romantic getaway in Windy Ridge
Perfect for a romantic getaway, this home in Karen is an affordable, but elegant, option for couples. Enjoy a glass of wine on the twilight lit veranda, or take a dip in the outdoor pool. Driver, laundry and chef services are available upon request. The interior is stylishly decorated, and accented by stunning wooden vaulted ceilings and skylights. Despite being in a quiet neighborhood, it’s a short trip to The Hub shopping center and restaurants offering many different cuisines.
Nairobi, Nairobi County, Kenya
3.86 km (2.4 mi) from Karen Country ClubAccommodates: 3
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
amazing garden and view around the pool houseand fresh flowers in different rooms was lovelythe amenities were fantastic swimming pool steam room & bath tub made us super relaxedwe enjoyed fires in the fireplaces and lunch by the beautiful pool (which is not heated fyi)we loved the steamroom and the jacuzzi and the fireplace in every room was just awesome lCleanliness:
the pool house was clean and ready when i arrivedthere is good security and the place is very cleanthe pictures were very misleading if the pool was cleaned out on the sunny dayswe booked the cottage as a place to rest & clean up before our flight home from nairobiHost:
the hosts were very responsivethe staff were very helpful and welcomingthe staff are very respectful and friendlythe host was responsive at all timesthe staff were quite friendly understanding and helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
great and peaceful location in the karen area close to the hub shopping mallthe location is perfect quiet and away from hustle and bustle of the citygreat stay and a beautiful locationit was the perfect getaway locationand it’s close to a huge mall and a lot of dining options available
12. Bungalow in beautiful garden in Karen
A cozy, four-bedroom bungalow is a great option for families visiting Nairobi. It is surrounded by nine acres of lush property and local shops and restaurants at The Hub aren’t far. The interior is warmly decorated to make you feel at home. Special touches like the claw-foot bathtub make you feel as if you’re splurging on a luxurious getaway. The Nairobi National Game Park, Giraffe Center, Daphne Sheldricks Orphan Elephants and local markets are also nearby.
Nairobi, Nairobi County, Kenya
3.57 km (2.3 mi) from Karen Country ClubTop guest reviews
Cleanliness:
clean and very spaciousthe beds were comfortable and the house was very cleanthe house is spacious and super cleanthe house is kept cleansuper clean and large indoor and outdoor space in karen near to the karen hubHost:
very helpful staffmonica was very helpful and got us settledvery quick responses from the host (tina) as wellmonica was very friendly and helpfultina and monica were very helpful and accommodatingRead more reviewsLocation:
convenient easy to find locationthe location is very easy to get to and close to grocery stores and restaurantsspacious house at good location in karengorgeous family home close to all the main attractions in karenthe house is close to a very nice shopping mall with grocery and restaurants
13. The Shire in Karen
This quiet and peaceful home overlooks the Mwitu forest and will allow you to relax after a long day in the city. It is located only 45 minutes from the airport and eight minutes from dining and shopping options in Karen. The bedroom itself can sleep two people and it is surrounded by large windows that let in plenty of light and let you take in the scenery. Shared access to the garden and kitchen are welcome, and you also get a parking space.
4.12 km (2.6 mi) from Karen Country Club
14. Peaceful retreat in Karen
This home was recently custom built in the colonial style, with a modern interior to let in natural light and create spacious living areas. The two double rooms can host up to five guests, and have access to the shared lounge and veranda. Your hosts welcome you to enjoy a complimentary breakfast in the courtyard while taking in the beautiful sunshine. Nearby restaurants and shops are a short drive away, and your host is more than happy to help you arrange transportation.
3.7 km (2.3 mi) from Karen Country Club
15. Private double room in beautiful Karen home
This private room is a very affordable and well cared for option for solo or business travelers. Each bedroom has its own private entrance and access to the garden, kitchenette and bathroom. If needed, a taxi can be arranged for pick up and drop off. This Airbnb is conveniently close to sites such as the Nairobi National Park, Giraffe Center, The Carnivore and the city center.
Nairobi, Kenya
4.03 km (2.6 mi) from Karen Country ClubTop guest reviews
Host:
teresa and her family were really nice hoststeresa is a very friendly & welcoming host that likes to make sure her guests are comfortablenot to mention teresa's hospitality and friendly natureteresa is a fantastic host and her place is in the perfect spotteresa was very welcoming and friendly she was there when i arrived and gave me a warm welcomeRead more reviewsLocation:
close to the hub but most of all peaceful ambianceit is safe and quiet and a 1 mile walk to the karen hub
16. British family home in leafy Karen
A modern and quiet residence, this private room can accommodate four guests and it has a private bathroom. The hosts provide an English breakfast as per your request and they are known to give helpful suggestions on visiting the area. Both Wilson and JKI airports are easily accessible. Local attractions include Sheldrick’s Elephant Orphanage, the Giraffe Center, Karen Blixen Museum and the Swedo House.
Nairobi, Kenya
2.93 km (1.9 mi) from Karen Country ClubTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
beautiful home and gardens cozy rooms lots of hot water delicious and generous breakfast (great coffee) warm stafflovely sitting room with fireplace for those chilly eveningslovely full english breakfast every morning and even helped us out with dinner for the kidswe had a very enjoyable and comfortable stayevery morning i was greeted with a smile and a delicious breakfast was prepared without hesitationCleanliness:
the rooms were comfortable and clean as wellcomfortable your own private bathroom spotlessthe beds were very comfortable & the rooms were cleanthe guest rooms and bathroom were very comfortable and spotlessthe property is spotlessly clean the beds very comfortable and the breakfast a perfect start to the dayHost:
jane was a friendly & helpful host mary and other staff were always attentive & supportivestyle comfort and friendly reception in a delightful family homejane was an amazing host very welcoming friendly and helpfulmary made us an excellent breakfast every morning and she was also very friendly and helpfuljane was an excellent host and i enjoyed my stayRead more reviewsLocation:
great location and beautiful homegreat location great location amazing stafflocation is perfect for karen and the hub shopping centrethis location was even better than what we expected both home and areathe location is beautiful and very peaceful
17. Cate's House
Only 45 minutes from the airport, this beautiful home is located in a quiet neighborhood. Take your morning cup of coffee onto the veranda, listen to the songbirds and take in the view of the river. This room is very spacious and includes its own en-suite bathroom and shower. If you happen to visit on a cooler day, there’s a log burning fireplace in the sitting room that would be perfect to curl up next to with a book. Accessing the city center is simple using the new bypass, and plenty of dining and shopping is nearby at the Hub and Karen shopping centers.
Nairobi, Nairobi County, Kenya
4.34 km (2.7 mi) from Karen Country ClubAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
my room was spacious with a comfortable large bed and a very large bathroomCleanliness:
cate's house is very beautiful and serene with tasteful styling and impeccable cleanlinessHost:
she was very friendly and welcoming from the moment i arrivedcate is a wonderful host her house is lovely and welcomingcate’s house is great and she is an amazing hostgreat spot with good garden for kids to explore and 4 friendly dogsRead more reviewsLocation:
wonderful location and beautiful spacious housefrom the location to the lovely interior this was above and beyond all expectationswhat makes the place so special is cate herselfperfect place if you need to stop in nairobi for a few days
18. Zuru Cottage
If you’re looking for privacy and serenity, then Zuru Cottage is the perfect place to stay. It sits in the heart of quiet Karen suburbs, surrounded by towering nature. As it is a pet-friendly property, your furbabies are also welcome to come along. The site has wide outdoor spaces where they can run around and play. Inside the rental, amenities such as Wifi, a Netflix-ready TV, and a portable heater are provided. Board games are also available for more indoor entertainment.
Within an hour’s drive, you can reach amazing spots such as The Hub Karen and Nairobi National Park.
Nairobi, Nairobi County, Kenya
3.81 km (2.4 mi) from Karen Country ClubAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
don’s place was lovely cozy quiet and serenehowever there is room for improvement in the little details that ultimately matter the mostCleanliness:
if you seek a scenic cozy & clean place to stay this is itdon's place is so lovely and cosy very clean and well thought outclean house well equipped kitchen and we really enjoyed our stay hereHost:
host was great with communicationefficient staff and polite to the point communicationdon is a good host and has a great placedon is the most helpful host and went beyond the expected from him as a hostgeoffrey was very helpful and resourcefulRead more reviewsLocation:
great location and very serene environmentgreat location if looking for a relaxing and picturesque getawaygreat place to spend the weekend in nairobi if you want to feel like you are away from nairobiwonderful garden perfect place to stay in karenwonderful cottage situated in a beautiful large garden in a very quiet and pleasant neighborhood
Lush and quiet retreat in Nairobi suburbs
Whether you are in town on business or visiting Nairobi for pleasure, the neighborhood of Karen provides a quiet respite from the hubbub of downtown. There are a plethora of restaurants with outdoor dining, shopping centers and groceries nearby. These homes offer spacious and elegant alternatives to your standard hotel, so keep them in mind for your next visit.
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