by Daniella Gateretse & Conor Walsh
If you’re coming to the Nairobi UN Office for a few days to attend an event, meeting, workshop, or any other engagement, you’ll need convenient, comfortable accommodation nearby.
The neighborhood around the UN, Gigiri, is one of Nairobi’s most exclusive suburbs, and home to many embassies, diplomatic missions, and high-end shopping malls. So, you’ll have plenty of options.
Or you can opt for a hotel closer to Nairobi’s city center and get a taste of the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
In this quick guide, we’ll show you our favorite hotels near the Nairobi UN office based on many visits to the city and years organizing international events there.
Gigiri and Surrounds
The United Nations Office at Nairobi is located in the heart of Gigiri – a pleasant neighborhood roughly 20 minutes drive north of the city center (when there’s no traffic).
Gigiri is a charming area and one of the most walkable in Nairobi.
You can walk from many of the hotels below to the UN in 10-20 minutes. However, at night we suggest taking a car until you’re familiar with the area.
1. Tribe Hotel
The Tribe Hotel embodies modern luxury with a Kenyan twist a short walk from the UN.
Its rooms and suites, adorned with stunning installations and paintings from Africa’s best contemporary artists, exude an air of understated elegance while providing the latest comforts and conveniences.
Beyond the rooms, you can indulge your inner foodie at the hotel’s popular restaurants. Jiko offers a fusion of global and local flavors, while the rooftop lounge, Nest, offers scenic views and creative cocktails.
After a long day of meetings and conferences, take a dip in the azure waters of the outdoor pool, head to the spa for a luxury treatment, or burn the stress away at the exclusive fitness center.
Alternatively, head next door to the Village Market shopping center for some retail therapy.
2. Trademark Hotel
The Trademark Hotel is located within Village Market – Gigiri’s most popular shopping center.
It’s a popular hangout spot for its unique restaurants and stunning rooftop terrace, which includes an infinity pool looking out over Karura Forest and downtown Nairobi.
Meanwhile, the hotel’s 215 suites and guest facilities provide modern elegance for busy business, conference, and diplomatic travelers. The impeccable service, modern amenities, and luxurious wellness center guarantee a stress-free stay – so you can focus on your goals at the UN.
3. Gigiri Lion Villas
Gigiri Lion Villas offer a unique and intimate accommodation experience. These luxurious villas are your home away from home, providing a sense of privacy and exclusivity that sets them apart.
Wake up in your spacious villa, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. Enjoy a healthy breakfast and coffee in the lush gardens. And return at the end of a busy day for a relaxing dip in the pool or peaceful snooze on your private terrace.
Located one block from the UN complex, Gigiri Lion Villas provide a seamless transition between your appointments and your private retreat.
4. Holiday Inn – Nairobi Two Rivers Mall, an IHG Hotel
The Holiday Inn – Nairobi Two Rivers Mall is located in the Rosslyn suburb, 15 minutes drive north of the UN. As the name suggests, it’s situated in the Two Rivers Mall – the largest shopping complex in East Africa.
The Holiday Inn is a convenient choice if you don’t intend to visit central Nairobi and would rather be in a quiet location close to the UN. Its location means you have a world of entertainment, shopping, leisure, socializing, and dining a few steps away – without ever stepping into Nairobi’s notorious traffic.
The hotel has everything you need for a relaxing stay and productive time at the UN. Rooms are spacious, with modern designs and amenities. There’s a business center on-site, and the staff are accustomed to accommodating business, events, and diplomatic travelers from across the globe.
You can relax and rejuvenate at the outdoor pool, fitness center, and spa.
Westlands
Westlands is the beating heart of Nairobi, where you’ll find much of the city’s best restaurants, bars, shopping, nightlife, and leisure activities (bowling, cinema, etc.).
When there’s no traffic, travel time from the hotels listed below to the UN is less than 20 minutes. However, during peak traffic times (early morning and evening rush hour), expect up to 40 minutes.
5. Westwood Hotel
Bordering the serene Karura Forest, The Westwood Hotel offers a tranquil escape from the hustle of Nairobi.
The hotel’s expansive gardens guarantee a peaceful stay as you relax on the grass and enjoy a quiet meal or drink. Just look out for the monkeys jumping through the branches above you!
The Westwood has numerous budget and mid-range accommodation options for solo travelers, couples, and families. Each one has a unique design and feel, blending contemporary elegance with local nature to create a restful sanctuary.
The hotel is on a quiet road a few minutes drive from central Westlands, close to every convenience and easily accessible to the UN.
6. Sankara Nairobi
Sankara Nairobi is Westlands’ most modern and luxurious hotel.
Its rooms exude an air of opulence, ensuring peace and quiet after a busy day at the UN. Throw off your shoes, recline on the plush bedding, soak in the elegant decor, and enjoy the stunning views from your floor-to-ceiling windows.
If you can pull yourself away from your suite, head to the rooftop pool and terrace. Order a sumptuous meal at the Sarabi Grill, and watch the sunset behind Nairobi’s ever-changing skyline. On Fridays, you can join the weekly salsa dance classes and socials hosted here – the best way to end a busy week.
For something more “refined,” the Artisan Lounge and Gallery provides a chic setting for sipping cocktails and mingling with Nairobi’s best and brightest.
7. Zehneria Suites Hotel
Zehneria Suites Hotel’s prime location places you within easy reach of the United Nations Office. It’s on a quiet street with easy access to Gigiri that should bypass most traffic throughout the day.
The hotel’s rooms are meticulously crafted to offer a seamless fusion of style and functionality, ensuring a restful stay. The outdoor pool and restaurant are the perfect place to unwind at the end of the day. And the fitness center offers the latest cardio equipment.
Zehneria Suites doesn’t look like much from the street. You could easily miss it. But once you step behind the gate, you’ll see why it’s one of our favorite hotels in Nairobi.
8. The Mövenpick Hotel and Residences
The Mövenpick is one of the most distinctive hotels in Nairobi – you can see its tower and revolving restaurant for miles.
It’s also one of the most popular hotels with visiting diplomats and business travelers. They often rent the Mövenpick’s residences as a second home in the city.
You can join them by booking a stay in its regular rooms and suites, which are spacious yet cozy, combining a homely feel with modern amenities. Each one has a dedicated WiFi connection and workspace.
The Mövenpick’s location – in Westlands’ busiest junction – has advantages and disadvantages. You’ll be close to the best restaurants, bars, and shopping, but also staying in a notorious traffic black spot. Consider this if you’re planning lots of commuting to the UN.
9. Best Western Plus
Best Western is one of the most reliable hotel chains in the world, and its Nairobi location doesn’t disappoint.
Tucked just behind the massive Sarit Centre shopping center, it puts you in the heart of the Nairobi action.
But don’t worry. You’ll still enjoy a quiet, relaxing stay thanks to comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and soundproof windows.
The Best Western’s location means you’ll have to consider traffic when commuting to and from the UN. But it should take 10-15 minutes on a good day.
When not at the UN, you can make the most of Westlands, with a short stroll to popular shopping, dining, and leisure activities. Or you can drive to Karura Forest and spend a few hours winding through its expansive walking trails.
10. Jacaranda Hotel
The Jacaranda Hotel stands as a harmonious blend of Kenyan authenticity and modern luxury in the heart of Westlands.
Each room offers a fusion of local artistry and contemporary comfort, making it an inviting retreat after UN meetings. Settle into your lavish bedding, let the room’s ambiance whisk away your fatigue, and gaze through your window at the lush gardens just outside.
Despite its location, the hotel grounds unfold like a verdant sanctuary of lush green gardens. Indulge in a sumptuous meal amidst nature, swing by the in-house spa, or catch a local event in the evening.
11. Park Inn Hotel by Radisson
The Park Inn by Radisson Nairobi offers convenience and comfort for business and official travelers on the edge of Westlands but away from its busy center.
The hotel’s modern design and amenities are perfect for unwinding after a day of UN deliberations. The rooms’ sleek interiors and comfortable furnishings let the city’s energy fade into the background, so you can rejuvenate for the next day.
Venture beyond your room, and the hotel comes alive with vibrant dining and entertainment spaces, whether you’re sampling gourmet dishes at the in-house restaurant or soaking in city views from the rooftop lounge.
12. Golden Tulip Hotel
In the heart of “downtown” Westlands, the Golden Tulip offers affordable comfort and spacious rooms to unwind after a busy day.
The rooftop pool, restaurant, and lounge area provide space to refresh, swim, enjoy a drink, or replenish your energies with a hearty meal.
The rooms are spacious, with out-of-the-way workspaces that don’t intrude on the sense of relaxation you’ll get from the comfy beds and armchairs.
The Golden Tulip’s location means the best of Westlands is at your fingertips. But it also means you’ll be at the mercy of the worst rush-hour traffic in the city. Consider this when planning your commute to and from the UN.
Parklands
Parklands is a residential neighborhood wedged between Gigiri and Westlands. Traditionally, it has been home to much of Nairobi’s South Asian community. You’ll find some of the city’s best Indian restaurants dotted throughout Parklands, along with colorful shopping centers and a lively atmosphere.
13. The Concord Hotel & Suites
15 minutes drive from the UN, The Concord Hotel & Suites is a distinctive high-rise hotel in the heart of Parklands.
The spacious rooms feature elegant furnishings, comfortable bedding, and panoramic views of Nairobi’s skyline. You can enjoy the view from your room or venture out onto your balcony.
The rooftop bar provides a sophisticated ambiance with expertly crafted cocktails. You also have the choice between numerous on-site restaurants. With its lush garden setting, the Terrace Restaurant offers an ideal spot for al fresco dining.
And if you seek relaxation, the hotel’s spa and wellness center await, offering rejuvenating treatments.
Conclusion
Finding a hotel close to the UN’s Nairobi office isn’t difficult. But pick the wrong one, and it could make your trip a lot more stressful.
Use this guide, based on our many years of traveling to and organizing events in Nairobi, to find the right hotel for your budget and tastes. If you know a hotel we missed, get in touch and tell us why we should add it to the list.
