Visiting Nairobi for embassy appointments and looking for embassy accommodation in Nairobi can be both exciting and stressful. Between scheduling interviews, gathering documents, and planning your stay, accommodation often becomes an afterthought. Yet, where you stay can make a big difference in how smooth and comfortable your trip is.
Nairobi hosts many embassies and high commissions, most of which are clustered in a few key neighborhoods. Whether you prefer high-end furnished apartments or budget-friendly options, here’s a practical guide to areas you can consider when visiting different embassies in Kenya.
1. The Gigiri & Muthaiga Cluster
Embassies nearby:
- United States Embassy (Gigiri)
- Indian High Commission (UN Crescent, Gigiri)
- Embassy of Sweden (UN Crescent, Gigiri)
- Embassy of Turkey (Gigiri Road)
- Embassy of Malaysia (Gigiri Grove, Gigiri)
- Embassy of South Africa (Runda Drive)
- Embassy of Israel (Muthaiga)
- Embassy of Saudi Arabia (Muthaiga)
- Embassy of Belgium (Muthaiga)
Where to stay:
If you’re visiting the U.S. Embassy or other Gigiri missions, here are the best options for embassy accommodation in Nairobi.
- High-End Options – Runda
Runda is known for its spacious gated homes, greenery, and quiet streets. It’s a diplomatic neighborhood that offers top-notch security and privacy, ideal if you’re traveling with family or want a peaceful environment after a busy embassy schedule. Many homes in Runda also come with private gardens, large kitchens, and modern furnishing — perfect for longer stays. - Budget-Friendly Options – Ruaka, Kiambu Road (Thindigua), Garden Estate, Ngara
If you want to be close to Gigiri without spending too much, Ruaka and Thindigua on Kiambu Road are excellent choices. They are dotted with modern furnished apartments that are safe, stylish, and affordable. Garden Estate offers slightly larger spaces at reasonable prices, while Ngara is perfect if you’re commuting frequently to the city center and still want to save on rent. These areas strike a balance between affordability and convenience.
2. Westlands, Riverside & Parklands
Embassies nearby:
- German Embassy (Riverside Drive)
- Netherlands Embassy (Riverside Drive, Keystone Park)
- Republic of Korea (South Korea) Embassy (Westlands Road, Parklands)
Where to stay:
For travelers seeking embassy accommodation in Nairobi close to Riverside and Westlands, these neighborhoods offer both comfort and easy access to the German and Netherlands embassies.
- High-End Options – Westlands, Riverside Drive, Kileleshwa
These neighborhoods are popular with expatriates and professionals, offering a cosmopolitan lifestyle. Westlands is lively, full of restaurants, malls, and nightlife, while Riverside and Kileleshwa are quieter but still central. Staying here means easy access to embassy offices as well as conveniences like gyms, shopping, and co-working spaces. They’re great if you prefer a vibrant urban experience with comfort. - Budget-Friendly Options – Waiyaki Way (Muthiga), Parklands, Ngara
For those working with tighter budgets, these areas are attractive alternatives. Parklands and Ngara are closer to the CBD, making commuting affordable and straightforward. Waiyaki Way (Muthiga) offers larger, budget-friendly apartments, and though a little further out, it’s connected by major roads and public transport. These areas give you the basics — accessibility, safety, and affordability — without the premium price tag of Westlands.
3. Loresho, Kitisuru & Lower Kabete
Embassies nearby:
- Mexico Embassy (Kibagare Way, Loresho)
- Embassy of Argentina (Kitisuru Road, Kitisuru)
Where to stay:
- High-End Options – Kyuna Estate, Kitisuru, Loresho, Lower Kabete
These leafy suburbs are known for tranquility and upscale living. Kitisuru and Kyuna, in particular, are home to many international residents and embassy staff. The area is secure and family-friendly, with spacious houses and well-furnished apartments. If you value green surroundings and privacy, this is the best fit. - Budget-Friendly Options – Waiyaki Way (Kabete, Muthiga)
If you don’t mind a slightly longer commute, Kabete and Muthiga offer affordable furnished units along Waiyaki Way. They are especially practical if you’re in Nairobi for just a short stay, as you still get good road access without the high costs of Kitisuru or Loresho.
4. Upper Hill Cluster
Embassy nearby:
- British High Commission (Upper Hill Road)
Where to stay:
- High-End Options – Kilimani and Kileleshwa
These neighborhoods combine convenience with comfort. They’re just a short drive from Upper Hill but offer a residential feel with modern apartments, serviced flats, and well-furnished spaces. Kilimani, in particular, is lively, with plenty of cafes, supermarkets, and co-working spaces nearby, making it ideal for those who need to balance embassy visits with day-to-day convenience. - Budget-Friendly Options – Nairobi West, South B, Ngara, Racecourse (Ngong Road)
If you’re visiting the British High Commission on a budget, these areas are more practical. Nairobi West and South B are vibrant neighborhoods with affordable, mid-sized apartments. Ngara gives you quick access to both Upper Hill and the city center at low costs, while Racecourse along Ngong Road offers a quieter, budget-conscious option for those who don’t mind being slightly farther out.
Practical Tips When Choosing Accommodation
- Proximity saves time: Nairobi traffic can be unpredictable, so staying close to your embassy is always a plus.
- Consider your budget: Nairobi offers everything from luxury villas to simple studio apartments — choose based on the length of your stay and your financial plan.
- Self-catering convenience: Furnished apartments allow you to cook your meals and live more comfortably, especially if your embassy appointments require multiple visits.
- Security first: Always prioritize safe neighborhoods and trusted hosts when choosing your accommodation.
Final Thoughts
Navigating embassy visits can be stressful, but choosing the right accommodation can make your stay smoother. Nairobi has a wide range of neighborhoods that cater to both high-end and budget travelers, especially near the major embassy clusters in Gigiri/Muthaiga, Westlands/Riverside, Loresho/Kitisuru, and Upper Hill.
Whether you’re here for a few days or longer, planning your accommodation in advance ensures you stay close to your appointments while enjoying the comfort and privacy of a home-like space.
