An exquisite boutique lodge in Karen offering just 10 luxurious suites in a colonial farmhouse setting. The intimate property provides personalised service, a lovely pool and stunning garden views in one of Nairobi's most desirable neighbourhoods.
House of Waine is an intimate luxury boutique lodge set on Marula Lane in Karen, one of Nairobi's most sought-after residential neighbourhoods located approximately 20 kilometres south-west of the city centre. The property sits in a beautifully landscaped garden setting that evokes the colonial farmhouse era made famous by writers like Karen Blixen, whose former estate is just minutes away. The Ngong Hills rise visibly to the south, providing a striking natural backdrop from the gardens and terrace.
The lodge offers eleven suites, making it one of Nairobi's most exclusive and personal places to stay. Each suite occupies its own private space within the garden grounds, furnished with colonial-era pieces, four-poster beds, locally woven textiles and curated artwork. Rooms are spacious and well-appointed with climate control, Wi-Fi and premium bath amenities.
Dining at House of Waine is centred on the main farmhouse terrace and indoor dining room, where the kitchen produces carefully sourced Kenyan and international dishes. Breakfasts are particularly well-regarded for their quality and variety, and evening dining is intimate and unhurried. The bar is stocked with a thoughtful selection of wines, spirits and cocktails.
The swimming pool is a focal point of the garden, surrounded by lawns and flowering shrubs that attract birds commonly seen in the Karen area. Personalised butler service ensures that requests are handled discreetly and promptly. The lodge arranges private airport transfers, excursions to the Karen Blixen Museum, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Giraffe Centre and day trips to Nairobi National Park.
House of Waine is family-friendly and well-suited to guests who prioritise privacy and a slower pace of travel. The Karen location also provides easy access to upmarket shopping, good restaurants and the Ngong Hills walking trails.
Amenities
- pool
- wifi
- restaurant
- bar
- garden
- butler service
- airport transfers
Location
Marula Lane, Karen, Nairobi
-1.3500, 36.7200 View on map
Highlights
- Eleven private luxury suites in a colonial garden estate setting in Karen neighbourhood
- Garden views with the Ngong Hills as backdrop and excellent birding on the grounds
- Personalised butler service with bespoke excursions to Karen Blixen Museum and wildlife sanctuaries
- Intimate farmhouse-style dining with locally sourced ingredients and curated wine list
- Family-friendly boutique environment ideal for private, unhurried travel in Nairobi
Tips for visiting
- Book well in advance — with just eleven suites, the property fills quickly especially during peak safari seasons (July–October and January–February).
- Ask the lodge to arrange a morning visit to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, just 10 minutes away, to witness elephant orphan feeding.
- The Karen area has excellent independent restaurants nearby, worth exploring for lunch and casual evening meals.
- Airport transfers to and from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport are available and recommended given the distance from the hotel.
Accessibility
House of Waine has garden pathways connecting the suites, which are set largely on level ground. Guests with specific mobility requirements should contact the lodge directly, as some areas of the colonial-era property may have limited step-free access.
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Frequently asked questions
How many rooms does House of Waine have?
House of Waine offers eleven suites, making it one of Nairobi's most intimate boutique properties. The small scale ensures a high staff-to-guest ratio and highly personalised service.
What is the Karen neighbourhood like?
Karen is one of Nairobi's most desirable residential neighbourhoods, known for its colonial-era homes, lush green landscapes and proximity to wildlife sanctuaries including the Giraffe Centre and David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. It is quieter and more spacious than the city centre.
Is House of Waine suitable for a honeymoon or special occasion?
The property is well-suited to honeymoons and special occasions given the intimate scale, romantic colonial setting, personalised butler service and ability to arrange private dinners and excursions.
What attractions are near House of Waine?
The Karen Blixen Museum, Giraffe Centre, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Ngong Hills walking trails and Nairobi National Park are all within a 15–30 minute drive from the property.