For property owners considering short-term rentals in Nairobi, understanding what visitors need is essential. By anticipating what travelers look for—safe transport, convenient payment options, authentic dining, and cultural highlights—you can make your property stand out in this fast-growing rental market.
Getting Around Nairobi with Ease
Transportation is one of the first concerns for any visitor. Ride-hailing apps like Uber, Bolt and Little Rides are available, offering safety, convenience, and transparent pricing. Guests can book rides directly from their phones, avoiding the stress of negotiating fares. These platforms are especially popular among international travelers who want predictable, cashless transport options.
For those seeking a more local experience, Nairobi’s famous matatus—colorful minibuses filled with music and energy—are an affordable way to explore the city. While not for everyone, many tourists enjoy at least one ride as part of their Nairobi adventure. As a host, letting your guests know about both options (ride apps for safety and matatus for culture) can enhance their stay.
Health and Safety Tips Every Visitor Should Know
Visitors often worry about health and safety when exploring a new city. Nairobi is welcoming and generally safe, but property owners should provide guests with practical reminders. Encourage them to:
- Stay healthy: Some travelers may need vaccinations such as Yellow Fever before arrival. Malaria medication is also recommended for longer stays. Bottled water is the safest choice.
- Keep valuables secure: Suggest guests use safes or lockers in your rental and avoid flashing expensive electronics in public.
- Stick to safe areas: Advise them to use ride hailing app or official licensed taxi at night instead of walking, and stay in well-lit, populated streets.
Providing a short safety guide in your rental property manual can add peace of mind and set your property apart.
Nairobi’s Food & Dining Experiences
Nairobi’s culinary scene is one of its biggest attractions, and short-term rental guests will definitely want recommendations. From international chains like KFC and Burger King to local legends like Carnivore (famous for its nyama choma—grilled meat) and Solo Grano for authentic Italian pizza, the city caters to every taste.
Encourage your guests to try:
- Nyama Choma with Ugali – Kenya’s iconic grilled meat dish, paired with the country’s staple starch which is similar to polenta.
- Street food – chapati, samosas, and mandazi (sweet fried dough) for a quick bite.
- Trendy cafes – Westlands and Karen are popular with young professionals and expats looking for coffee and brunch spots, Village Market and Nairobi Street Cafe also has a wide range of eateries.
Adding a local food guide in your welcome pack is a great way to enhance the guest experience and earn more positive reviews.
Must-See Nairobi Attractions
One of the biggest draws for tourists booking short-term rentals is proximity to Nairobi’s top attractions. Here are a few highlights worth mentioning to guests:
- Nairobi National Park – The only national park in the world located inside a city, home to lions, giraffes, rhinos, and zebras against the Nairobi skyline.
- David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust – Where guests can see rescued baby elephants and even “adopt” one.
- Karen Blixen Museum – The former home of the Out of Africa author, offering a glimpse into colonial Kenya.
- National Museum of Kenya – A rich collection of art, history, and natural heritage.
Providing clear directions or arranging tours through trusted operators can increase guest satisfaction and boost your rental’s reputation.
Money, Payments & Staying Connected
Kenya is a global leader in mobile money. With M-Pesa, visitors don’t need to carry large amounts of cash; they can pay for taxis, restaurants, and shopping directly via mobile wallet. For tourists unfamiliar with M-Pesa, guiding them on how to set up or use the service can make their stay seamless.
The local currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES), but major hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets accept credit cards. A mix of M-Pesa, card, and some cash for smaller vendors ensures smooth transactions.
Connectivity is also simple. Safaricom and Airtel provide affordable data plans, and local SIM cards are available at the airport or in malls. Recommending the best provider for fast data helps your guests stay connected with maps, ride apps, and family back home. Visitors can also purchase eSIM's from global operators such as Airalo, ideal for those who need instant data when they arrive in Kenya.
Why Property Owners Should Care
Every short-term rental property in Nairobi is competing to deliver the best guest experience. By offering insights into safe transport options, local food, cultural etiquette, and easy payments like M-Pesa, you position your property as more than just accommodation—you make it a trusted base for exploration.
Alkebulan Homes & Villas specialize in helping property owners in the Nairobi market, manage, and grow their short-term rental businesses. With services like guest vetting, reservation and OTA management, communications and liasing with your property staff, housekeeping we ensure both owners and guests have a smooth experience.
Final Thoughts
Nairobi is a city of contrasts—wildlife against skyscrapers, traditional markets beside modern malls, and street food stalls next to global chains. For travelers, it’s an unforgettable destination. For property owners, it’s a booming opportunity.
If you’re considering renting your property short-term in Nairobi, focusing on guest experience, convenience, and safety is the key to success. With the right partner like Alkebulan Homes & Villas you can tap into this growing market while giving visitors a true taste of Kenya’s capital.