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Tips for First-Time Visitors Booking Serviced Apartments in Nairobi

Planning your first trip to Nairobi and considering a serviced apartment? Great choice. Serviced apartments in Nairobi offer more space, privacy, and convenience than traditional hotel rooms — especially for visitors planning a longer stay, traveling with family, or working remotely.

But if it’s your first time booking one, you may be unsure what to expect or what to look out for. This guide covers the most important tips to help you choose the right serviced apartment and enjoy a safe, smooth, and comfortable stay in Nairobi.

1. Choose the Right Location for Your Needs

Nairobi is a large, diverse city, so location matters. Depending on your purpose of travel, here are the top neighbourhoods to consider:

Best Areas for First-Time Visitors

• Westlands – Modern, vibrant, safe, great for nightlife & shopping 
• Kilimani – Central, close to restaurants, malls, and business centers 
• Lavington – Quiet, family-friendly, upscale 
• Karen – Scenic, peaceful, near top tourist attractions 
• Upper Hill / Nairobi CBD – Ideal for business travelers 

Choose an area that aligns with your itinerary to minimize commuting time and transportation costs.

 2. Check What’s Included in the Apartment

Different serviced apartments offer different inclusions. Look for:

• Fully furnished kitchen 
• Housekeeping services 
• Fast and reliable Wi-Fi 
• 24/7 security 
• Laundry facilities 
• Parking 
• Smart TV/entertainment 
• Work desk or workspace 

If you’re staying for more than a week, having a kitchen, laundry, and housekeeping will greatly improve your comfort and save costs.

3. Prioritize Safety & Security

Safety is a major factor for first-time visitors to Nairobi. A good serviced apartment should offer:

• Gated compound 
• 24-hour security guards 
• CCTV surveillance 
• Secure parking 
• Controlled access 
• Well-lit surroundings 

Check reviews and confirm safety features before booking.

 4. Consider Your Budget — But Don’t Go Too Cheap

While Nairobi has options for every budget, extremely cheap serviced apartments may compromise on:

• Cleanliness 
• Security 
• Comfort 
• Professional management 

Aim for the mid-range or upper-mid range if it’s your first visit. You’ll get better standards and peace of mind.

5.Book Early During Peak Seasons

Nairobi receives high numbers of tourists and business travelers during:

• December holidays 
• July–October (Wildebeest Migration season) 
• School holidays 
• Major conferences or events 

To secure your preferred serviced apartment:

– Book 2–4 weeks early
– Compare rates across platforms
– Ask for seasonal or long-stay discounts

 6. Confirm All Charges Before Booking

To avoid surprises, ask the property to confirm:

• Rate per night 
• Weekly/monthly discounts 
• Utility charges (electricity, water) 
• Housekeeping frequency 
• Deposit/damage fees 
• Late checkout fees 
• Airport transfers (if needed) 

Transparency is key to a smooth experience.

Conclusion

Booking a serviced apartment in Nairobi is one of the best decisions you can make as a first-time visitor. It offers comfort, privacy, and great value — especially for longer stays. By choosing the right location, checking what’s included, reading reviews, and confirming all details upfront, you’ll enjoy a smooth, safe, and memorable stay in Kenya’s capital.