12 Best Five-Star Hotels in Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi has a wide selection of luxury hotels serving business travellers, tourists, families, diplomats and visitors seeking premium accommodation. These establishments offer high standards of hospitality, comfortable rooms, fine dining, conference facilities, wellness services and convenient access to important destinations.
The city’s five-star hotels are located in several areas, including Westlands, Upper Hill, Nairobi CBD, Chiromo, Arboretum and the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport area.
Some hotels are known for their luxury accommodation and international hospitality brands. Others stand out for their historic character, excellent restaurants, wellness facilities or convenient locations.
This guide lists 12 highly rated five-star hotels in Nairobi. The hotels are arranged according to their published Booking.com guest review scores. The list also considers their facilities, location and suitability for different accommodation needs.
Table of the Best Five-Star Hotels in Nairobi
| No. | Hotel | Location | Guest Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nairobi Serena Hotel | Central Nairobi | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Hyatt Place Nairobi Westlands | Westlands | 9.2/10 |
| 3 | Sankara Nairobi, Autograph Collection | Westlands | 9.2/10 |
| 4 | JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi | Westlands | 9.2/10 |
| 5 | Kwetu Nairobi, Curio Collection by Hilton | Gigiri | 9.2/10 |
| 6 | Radisson Blu Hotel, Nairobi Upper Hill | Upper Hill | 9.1/10 |
| 7 | Fairmont The Norfolk | Nairobi CBD | 9.0/10 |
| 8 | Radisson Blu Hotel & Residence Nairobi Arboretum | Arboretum | 8.9/10 |
| 9 | Villa Rosa Kempinski Nairobi | Westlands | 8.9/10 |
| 10 | Crowne Plaza Nairobi Airport by IHG | Jomo Kenyatta International Airport | 8.9/10 |
| 11 | Tribe Hotel, Nairobi | Gigiri | 8.9/10 |
| 12 | Emara Ole-Sereni | Mombasa Road | 8.7/10 |
Ratings are indicative guest scores reported on Booking.com during the preparation of this article. They are not official hotel classification grades. Scores and review counts can change.
1. Nairobi Serena Hotel
Location: Kenyatta Avenue, Central Nairobi
Guest rating: 9.4/10
Nairobi Serena Hotel is one of the most highly rated luxury hotels in the city. It is known for its elegant accommodation, attentive hospitality, landscaped grounds and extensive leisure facilities.
The hotel is conveniently located near Nairobi’s central business district. This makes it suitable for business executives, international visitors, diplomats and holidaymakers who want convenient access to the city’s main commercial and administrative areas.
Accommodation and Facilities
Nairobi Serena Hotel offers well-appointed guest rooms and suites. The accommodation combines contemporary comfort with African-inspired interior design.
Guests can enjoy several facilities, including:
- Spacious guest rooms and luxury suites.
- Outdoor swimming pool.
- Fully equipped fitness centre.
- Spa and wellness services.
- Restaurants and dining facilities.
- Conference and meeting rooms.
- Business services.
- Concierge and guest assistance.
- Landscaped outdoor relaxation areas.
Dining and Hospitality
The hotel offers several dining experiences, with menus covering international and regional cuisine. Its restaurants cater to different dining preferences, including breakfast, business lunches and formal dinners.
Its hospitality services are designed to meet the needs of both individual travellers and corporate guests.
Who Should Stay Here?
Nairobi Serena Hotel is suitable for:
- International business travellers.
- Corporate executives and diplomats.
- Couples seeking luxury accommodation.
- Families looking for premium hotel facilities.
- Visitors attending conferences and business events.
Its combination of location, accommodation and leisure facilities makes it a strong choice for luxury accommodation in Nairobi.
2. Hyatt Place Nairobi Westlands
Location: Lower Kabete Road, Westlands
Guest rating: 9.2/10
Hyatt Place Nairobi Westlands is a modern hotel serving business travellers, families and leisure visitors. It benefits from its location in Westlands, an important commercial and hospitality district.
The hotel is part of the international Hyatt brand. Its facilities and accommodation are designed to provide convenience, comfort and practical services for short and extended stays.
Accommodation and Facilities
The hotel provides modern guest rooms with comfortable furnishings and contemporary amenities.
Its main facilities include:
- Outdoor swimming pool.
- Fitness centre.
- Guest rooms with modern furnishings.
- Restaurant and bar.
- Meeting facilities.
- Guest luggage storage.
- Business-friendly services.
- Guest reception and concierge assistance.
Dining and Leisure
Guests can enjoy meals at the hotel’s dining facilities. Its restaurant caters to different meal preferences, including breakfast and other daily dining requirements.
The hotel also provides leisure facilities for visitors who want to exercise, swim or relax without leaving the property.
Who Should Stay Here?
Hyatt Place Nairobi Westlands is particularly suitable for:
- Business travellers.
- Families visiting Nairobi.
- International tourists.
- Guests seeking modern accommodation.
- Visitors who want to stay near Westlands shopping and entertainment facilities.
Its location makes it convenient for accessing offices, shopping centres, restaurants and other commercial establishments.
3. Sankara Nairobi, Autograph Collection
Location: Woodvale Grove, Westlands
Guest rating: 9.2/10
Sankara Nairobi is a luxury hotel operating under Marriott International’s Autograph Collection brand. It is known for its contemporary design, premium accommodation, dining experiences and rooftop leisure facilities.
The hotel is located in Westlands, making it convenient for visitors attending business meetings, shopping or exploring Nairobi’s hospitality and entertainment establishments.
Accommodation and Facilities
Sankara offers stylish guest rooms and suites with modern furnishings and hospitality amenities.
Its facilities include:
- Luxury guest rooms and suites.
- Rooftop swimming pool.
- Rooftop pool bar.
- Fitness facilities.
- Spa and wellness services.
- Conference and meeting rooms.
- Business facilities.
- Concierge services.
- Multiple dining establishments.
Restaurants and Entertainment
One of Sankara’s major attractions is its range of dining and entertainment options.
The hotel features multi-cuisine dining, buffet services, a wine bar, a rooftop pool bar and a steakhouse.
These facilities make it suitable for guests seeking accommodation with convenient access to quality restaurants and social spaces.
Who Should Stay Here?
Sankara Nairobi is suitable for:
- Business executives.
- International tourists.
- Couples seeking luxury accommodation.
- Corporate groups.
- Guests interested in rooftop dining and entertainment.
- Visitors attending conferences and social events.
Its combination of accommodation, dining and leisure facilities makes it one of the leading luxury hospitality establishments in Westlands.
4. JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi
Location: Chiromo Lane, Westlands
Guest rating: 9.2/10
JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi is a luxury hotel operated under the JW Marriott brand. It caters to travellers seeking premium accommodation, personalised hospitality and modern business facilities.
Its location in Westlands provides convenient access to corporate offices, shopping centres, restaurants and other commercial establishments.
The hotel is designed for both business and leisure accommodation. It combines contemporary interiors with hospitality services associated with the international Marriott brand.
Accommodation and Facilities
The hotel offers premium guest rooms and suites with modern furnishings and carefully designed interiors.
Guests can access facilities such as:
- Luxury guest accommodation.
- Restaurants and dining facilities.
- Swimming and leisure facilities.
- Fitness and wellness services.
- Spa facilities.
- Conference and meeting rooms.
- Business support services.
- Concierge services.
- Guest reception and hospitality assistance.
Dining and Guest Experience
JW Marriott hotels place considerable emphasis on dining and personalised guest experiences.
The Nairobi property caters to visitors seeking quality meals, comfortable dining spaces and convenient access to hotel services.
Its facilities are suitable for private dining, corporate hospitality and special occasions.
Who Should Stay Here?
JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi is suitable for:
- Luxury travellers.
- International business executives.
- Corporate visitors.
- Couples.
- Guests seeking premium hotel services.
- Visitors attending business and social functions.
It is a strong option for travellers who prefer an internationally recognised luxury hospitality brand.
5. Kwetu Nairobi, Curio Collection by Hilton
Location: Gigiri
Guest rating: 9.2/10
Kwetu Nairobi is a luxury hotel operating under Hilton’s Curio Collection brand. It offers a distinctive hospitality experience that combines contemporary accommodation with design elements inspired by local culture and surroundings.
The hotel is located in Gigiri, an important diplomatic and international business district.
Its location makes it particularly convenient for visitors attending meetings at international organisations, diplomatic missions and corporate offices in the area.
Accommodation and Facilities
Kwetu Nairobi offers stylish guest rooms and suites designed for comfort and relaxation.
Its facilities include:
- Modern guest rooms.
- Swimming pool.
- Restaurants and dining spaces.
- Fitness and wellness facilities.
- Conference and meeting facilities.
- Business services.
- Guest reception and concierge services.
- Outdoor relaxation spaces.
Dining and Leisure
The hotel provides dining options for guests seeking different culinary experiences. Its restaurants and hospitality spaces cater to hotel residents and visitors.
Guests can also enjoy its leisure facilities and relaxing environment.
Who Should Stay Here?
Kwetu Nairobi is suitable for:
- Diplomats and international visitors.
- Corporate executives.
- Business travellers.
- Couples.
- Leisure travellers.
- Visitors attending meetings in Gigiri and surrounding areas.
Its location and association with Hilton make it an attractive choice for visitors seeking a high-end stay in northern Nairobi.
6. Radisson Blu Hotel, Nairobi Upper Hill
Location: Elgon Road, Upper Hill
Guest rating: 9.1/10
Radisson Blu Hotel, Nairobi Upper Hill is a luxury business hotel serving corporate travellers, international visitors and holidaymakers.
Upper Hill is an important business district with offices, financial institutions, hospitals and corporate headquarters. The hotel’s location makes it convenient for visitors who need to access these facilities.
The hotel is part of the international Radisson Blu hospitality brand, which is known for contemporary accommodation and professional guest services.
Accommodation and Facilities
The hotel offers comfortable guest rooms and suites with modern amenities.
Its facilities include:
- Indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
- Jacuzzi.
- Fitness centre.
- Spa and wellness services.
- Restaurants and bars.
- Conference facilities.
- Business meeting rooms.
- Concierge services.
- Parking facilities.
Dining and Hospitality
The hotel provides dining options for guests, including restaurants serving international and regional dishes.
Its food and beverage facilities are suitable for business lunches, formal dinners and casual dining.
The hotel also caters to corporate meetings, conferences and private functions.
Who Should Stay Here?
Radisson Blu Upper Hill is suitable for:
- Corporate executives.
- Business travellers.
- Conference delegates.
- International visitors.
- Couples and families.
- Guests seeking a hotel with extensive leisure facilities.
Its location is particularly useful for people doing business in Upper Hill and the surrounding areas.
7. Fairmont The Norfolk
Location: Harry Thuku Road, Nairobi CBD
Guest rating: 9.0/10
Fairmont The Norfolk is one of Nairobi’s most recognised historic luxury hotels. It is known for its heritage, elegant architecture, landscaped gardens and long-standing reputation in the city’s hospitality industry.
The hotel offers a combination of historic character and modern luxury services.
Its central location makes it convenient for accessing government offices, corporate establishments, cultural attractions and other destinations in Nairobi.
Accommodation and Facilities
Fairmont The Norfolk offers guest rooms and suites with classic interior design and modern amenities.
Its facilities include:
- Luxury guest rooms and suites.
- Outdoor swimming pool.
- Fitness centre.
- Spa services.
- Restaurants and bars.
- Conference and meeting rooms.
- Garden relaxation spaces.
- Concierge and guest services.
- Event and function facilities.
Dining and Hospitality
The hotel offers several dining experiences, including restaurants and bars serving different cuisines.
Its dining facilities are suitable for business meetings, private dinners, family meals and formal hospitality events.
The landscaped gardens and historic architecture also provide attractive spaces for social gatherings.
Who Should Stay Here?
Fairmont The Norfolk is suitable for:
- International tourists.
- Business executives.
- Diplomats.
- Couples.
- Visitors interested in Nairobi’s history.
- Guests attending private functions and corporate events.
It is particularly appealing to travellers who appreciate historic hotels with established hospitality traditions.
8. Radisson Blu Hotel & Residence Nairobi Arboretum
Location: Arboretum Road
Guest rating: 8.9/10
Radisson Blu Hotel & Residence Nairobi Arboretum is a luxury hotel offering accommodation and residential-style facilities.
It is located near Nairobi Arboretum, a popular green space known for its walking trails and outdoor recreation opportunities.
The hotel provides an option for visitors who prefer a quieter environment while remaining close to the city’s main commercial districts.
Accommodation and Facilities
The hotel combines traditional hotel accommodation with residence-style options.
Its facilities include:
- Guest rooms and suites.
- Residential-style accommodation.
- Outdoor swimming pool.
- Fitness centre.
- Spa facilities.
- Restaurants and bars.
- Conference facilities.
- Business services.
- Parking facilities.
Dining and Leisure
Guests can enjoy hotel dining facilities and access leisure amenities within the property.
The nearby Arboretum also provides opportunities for outdoor walks, exercise and relaxation.
The hotel is suitable for both short visits and longer stays, particularly for guests who appreciate residential-style accommodation.
Who Should Stay Here?
Radisson Blu Arboretum is suitable for:
- Long-stay visitors.
- Business travellers.
- Families.
- Couples.
- International tourists.
- Guests seeking accommodation near green spaces.
Its quieter surroundings make it an attractive alternative to hotels located directly within busy commercial areas.
9. Villa Rosa Kempinski Nairobi
Location: Chiromo Road, Westlands
Guest rating: 8.9/10
Villa Rosa Kempinski Nairobi is a luxury hotel associated with the international Kempinski hospitality brand.
It is recognised for its elegant interiors, premium accommodation, fine dining and extensive hospitality facilities.
The hotel is located along Chiromo Road, providing access to Westlands and other important commercial areas.
Accommodation and Facilities
Villa Rosa Kempinski provides luxury rooms and suites designed for guests seeking comfort and premium services.
Its facilities include:
- Luxury guest rooms and suites.
- Outdoor swimming pool.
- Fitness centre.
- Spa and wellness facilities.
- Restaurants and bars.
- Conference and meeting facilities.
- Business services.
- Concierge services.
- Event and function facilities.
Dining and Hospitality
The hotel offers several dining experiences, including restaurants serving international and speciality cuisines.
Its food and beverage facilities cater to hotel residents, corporate guests and visitors seeking premium dining experiences.
The hotel also provides spaces for private celebrations, corporate events and social functions.
Who Should Stay Here?
Villa Rosa Kempinski is suitable for:
- Luxury travellers.
- Corporate executives.
- Diplomats.
- Couples.
- International tourists.
- Guests attending conferences and social events.
It is an established choice for visitors seeking premium accommodation and a wide range of hotel services.
10. Crowne Plaza Nairobi Airport by IHG
Location: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Mombasa Road
Guest rating: 8.9/10
Crowne Plaza Nairobi Airport is a luxury airport hotel operated under the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG).
Its location makes it particularly convenient for international travellers, airline passengers and business visitors who need accommodation close to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
The hotel is designed to serve both short-stay and longer-stay guests.
Accommodation and Facilities
Crowne Plaza Nairobi Airport offers modern guest rooms and suites with amenities designed for comfort and convenience.
Its facilities include:
- Modern guest rooms.
- Swimming pool.
- Fitness centre.
- Spa and wellness services.
- Restaurants and bars.
- Conference and meeting facilities.
- Business services.
- Airport transfer services.
- Parking facilities.
Dining and Business Services
The hotel provides dining options for guests who want convenient meals before or after flights.
Its conference and meeting facilities also make it suitable for business travellers who need to organise meetings near the airport.
The availability of airport transfer arrangements is another important advantage for guests with flight connections.
Who Should Stay Here?
Crowne Plaza Nairobi Airport is suitable for:
- International travellers.
- Transit passengers.
- Airline passengers with early flights.
- Business executives.
- Conference delegates.
- Visitors who prefer accommodation near the airport.
It is a practical luxury accommodation option for travellers who prioritise airport convenience.
11. Tribe Hotel, Nairobi
Location: The Village Market, Gigiri
Guest rating: 8.9/10
Tribe Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel located within the Gigiri hospitality and commercial district.
It is known for its distinctive contemporary design, art-inspired interiors and personalised hospitality.
Its location near Village Market makes it convenient for visitors seeking accommodation close to shopping, restaurants, entertainment and international organisations.
Accommodation and Facilities
Tribe Hotel offers individually styled guest rooms and suites with contemporary furnishings.
Its facilities include:
- Luxury guest rooms and suites.
- Swimming pool.
- Spa and wellness facilities.
- Fitness centre.
- Restaurants and bars.
- Conference and meeting spaces.
- Business facilities.
- Concierge services.
- Guest relaxation areas.
Dining and Entertainment
The hotel offers dining and social spaces designed for hotel residents and outside visitors.
Its location near Village Market also gives guests access to additional restaurants, shops and entertainment facilities.
The hotel’s design and atmosphere make it particularly appealing to travellers seeking a distinctive boutique hotel experience.
Who Should Stay Here?
Tribe Hotel is suitable for:
- International business travellers.
- Diplomats.
- Couples.
- Luxury tourists.
- Visitors attending events in Gigiri.
- Guests who prefer boutique-style accommodation.
Its proximity to Village Market and the wider Gigiri district is a major advantage.
12. Emara Ole-Sereni
Location: Mombasa Road, near Nairobi National Park
Guest rating: 8.7/10
Emara Ole-Sereni is a luxury hotel located along Mombasa Road, near Nairobi National Park.
The property is known for its contemporary accommodation, restaurants and views towards the surrounding park environment.
Its location makes it suitable for visitors who want convenient access to the airport, Nairobi National Park and commercial establishments along Mombasa Road.
Accommodation and Facilities
The hotel provides modern guest rooms and suites with contemporary furnishings.
Its facilities include:
- Luxury guest rooms and suites.
- Swimming pool.
- Fitness facilities.
- Spa and wellness services.
- Restaurants and bars.
- Conference and meeting facilities.
- Business services.
- Parking facilities.
- Guest reception and concierge services.
Dining and Leisure
Emara Ole-Sereni offers dining facilities catering to hotel residents and outside visitors.
Its location near Nairobi National Park gives guests an opportunity to enjoy views of the park environment, depending on their room or dining area.
The hotel’s restaurants and leisure facilities make it suitable for both business and holiday accommodation.
Who Should Stay Here?
Emara Ole-Sereni is suitable for:
- Business travellers.
- International tourists.
- Couples.
- Families.
- Visitors attending events along Mombasa Road.
- Travellers seeking convenient access to Nairobi National Park and the airport.
It offers a useful combination of luxury accommodation and convenient transport access.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Five-Star Hotel in Nairobi
Although all the hotels listed above offer premium accommodation, their locations, facilities and hospitality experiences differ. Choosing the right property depends on your travel purpose, budget and preferred amenities.
1. Location and Accessibility
Location is an important consideration when choosing accommodation.
Visitors attending business meetings may prefer hotels in Westlands, Upper Hill or Nairobi CBD.
Those attending diplomatic and international organisation meetings may find hotels in Gigiri more convenient.
Airport hotels are suitable for travellers with early departures, late arrivals or connecting flights.
2. Accommodation and Room Types
Check the available room categories before making a reservation.
Some hotels provide standard guest rooms, executive rooms, luxury suites and residential-style accommodation.
For extended stays, consider properties offering larger rooms, kitchen facilities or apartment-style accommodation.
3. Dining and Restaurants
Luxury hotels often provide several dining options.
Consider whether the hotel offers:
- Buffet breakfast.
- International cuisine.
- Local Kenyan dishes.
- Speciality restaurants.
- Room service.
- Bars and lounges.
- Private dining facilities.
These services are especially useful for guests who prefer eating within the hotel.
4. Conference and Business Facilities
Business travellers should consider hotels with well-equipped meeting rooms, conference halls, reliable internet connectivity and business support services.
Properties such as Nairobi Serena, Radisson Blu Upper Hill, Sankara and Fairmont The Norfolk are useful options to investigate for corporate hospitality and meetings.
5. Leisure and Wellness Facilities
For holidaymakers, leisure facilities can make a significant difference.
Consider swimming pools, fitness centres, spas, wellness services and outdoor relaxation spaces.
Hotels with these facilities offer additional opportunities for relaxation during a stay.
6. Guest Reviews and Ratings
Online guest ratings provide useful information about previous accommodation experiences.
However, a high rating does not automatically mean that a hotel is the best option for every visitor.
Read recent reviews and pay attention to comments about cleanliness, staff service, food quality, room comfort, security and available facilities.
7. Accommodation Prices
Five-star hotels have different room rates depending on room category, season, occupancy and booking conditions.
Always request a quotation for your preferred travel dates.
Also confirm whether the quoted price includes breakfast, taxes, airport transfers and access to specific hotel facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Five-Star Hotels in Nairobi
1. Which is the highest-rated five-star hotel in Nairobi?
Nairobi Serena Hotel is among the highest-rated properties in this selection, with a reported Booking.com guest rating of 9.4/10.
2. Which areas have the most five-star hotels in Nairobi?
Westlands has several established luxury hotels, including Sankara Nairobi, JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi and Villa Rosa Kempinski.
Other important luxury accommodation areas include Upper Hill, Gigiri, Nairobi CBD, Arboretum and Mombasa Road.
3. Which five-star hotels in Nairobi are suitable for business travellers?
Nairobi Serena Hotel, Radisson Blu Upper Hill, Sankara Nairobi, JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi and Fairmont The Norfolk are suitable options for corporate travellers.
They offer business-friendly accommodation and facilities for meetings and corporate hospitality.
4. Which five-star hotels are near Jomo Kenyatta International Airport?
Crowne Plaza Nairobi Airport is a convenient option because of its location near the airport.
Emara Ole-Sereni is another option along Mombasa Road.
5. Do five-star hotels in Nairobi offer conference facilities?
Yes. Several luxury hotels provide conference halls, meeting rooms, business facilities and event spaces.
These facilities cater to corporate meetings, seminars, workshops, international conferences and private functions.
6. Can visitors book five-star hotels in Nairobi for day use?
Some hotels may offer day-use packages, meeting packages, spa access or restaurant-only visits.
Availability and conditions vary by property. Visitors should contact the hotel directly to confirm the available packages.
Source Transparency Note
Hotel guest ratings in this article are based on published Booking.com review scores available during the research period. Hotel facilities and service descriptions are based on publicly available accommodation information.
Ratings are not permanent. They may change as guests submit new reviews. The list is intended as a guide to highly rated five-star accommodation and does not represent an official government ranking of hotel establishments.