Curio Collection by Hilton has announced the grand opening of Kwetu Nairobi, Curio Collection by Hilton, located in Kenya’s vibrant capital, Nairobi. This opening marks the debut of the Curio Collection brand in East Africa, adding a new dimension to Hilton’s presence in the region. The hotel promises to offer guests an exceptional and curated experience, blending the natural beauty of Nairobi with the luxury and comfort associated with the Hilton name.
A Prime Location with Easy Access to Key Destinations
Kwetu Nairobi is strategically situated near the Central Business District (CBD) of Nairobi, in close proximity to Gigiri, which hosts the United Nations headquarters, numerous embassies, and one of Africa’s largest expatriate communities. The hotel’s location on the edge of Karura Forest offers a serene escape from the bustling city, providing guests with a tranquil environment that is still conveniently close to the heart of Nairobi.
Guy Hutchinson, President of Hilton’s Middle East and Africa operations, expressed his excitement about the new addition, stating, “We are thrilled to open Kwetu Nairobi as part of the Curio Collection by Hilton portfolio, joining Hilton Garden Inn Nairobi Airport and DoubleTree by Hilton Nairobi Hurlingham. This truly one-of-a-kind hotel will offer guests a unique experience when staying in Nairobi, whether travelling for business or looking to explore the incredible Kenyan sights and landscapes. Kwetu Nairobi signifies the opening of our second Curio property on the African continent, where we currently have over 100 properties either trading or under development.”
A Boutique Hotel Experience Rooted in Local Culture
Jenna Hackett, Global Brand Head of Curio Collection by Hilton, highlighted the significance of Kwetu Nairobi’s opening: “A first for the brand in East Africa, Kwetu Nairobi is the ideal addition to our growing global portfolio of 150 Curio Collection by Hilton properties. This remarkable hotel offers the perfect fusion of nature, city, and heritage dating back to the 1800s, reflecting the brand’s immersive, bespoke character by pairing Kenya’s cultural past with unmatched contemporary comforts and amenities.”
The hotel’s name, “Kwetu,” which means “our place” in Swahili, encapsulates the welcoming, home-away-from-home atmosphere that the hotel aims to provide. The history of the land on which Kwetu Nairobi is built dates back to the 1800s. Originally a historic home, the property evolved into a guest house before its transformation into the contemporary boutique hotel it is today.
A Design That Merges History with Modern Elegance
Kwetu Nairobi features 102 guest rooms and suites spread across five interconnected buildings, each with its own unique Swahili name that reflects different aspects of the hotel’s story and the region’s rich history. For example, “Rafiki” means friendship and delves into East Africa’s captivating past, while “Eneo” symbolises humble beginnings, representing Nairobi’s vibrant culture and traditions. The interiors of the hotel beautifully merge historical details with refined contemporary styles. Many rooms offer balconies and terraces with stunning views of the forested landscape.
The hotel’s amenities are equally impressive, with a lobby bar and reception area that feature high-coffered ceilings and a cosy fireplace, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The property also boasts 334 square metres of meeting and event space with large terraces overlooking a man-made waterfall, a state-of-the-art gym, a spa, and a pool. For those interested in shopping, major malls such as Sarit, The Village Market, and Two Rivers Centre are within easy reach.
Culinary Delights Across Six Unique Venues
Kwetu Nairobi offers a diverse culinary experience with six food and beverage venues, each designed to take guests on a gastronomic journey through both local and global flavours. Highlights include:
- 1893 Brew Bar: Named after the year coffee was first planted in Kenya, this venue is a haven for coffee lovers, offering a selection of single-origin beans from across Kenya. Expert baristas prepare the coffee in various ways to highlight the exceptional quality of the local beans.
- Meko: A Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that serves breakfast and lunch a la carte, featuring a live, interactive kitchen concept. In the evening, Meko transforms into a seafood market, where the freshness of the produce is the star.
- Cool Waters: The hotel’s pool bar offers light bites and refreshing beverages, set against the backdrop of acacia trees and a tranquil man-made waterfall.
- Upepo: This signature rooftop restaurant and bar offers Southeast Asian cuisine and innovative cocktails, all while overlooking stunning views of the Karura Forest.
- Zabe Cocktail Bar: Located beneath Upepo, this more intimate venue provides a private ambiance with seasonal cocktails crafted by expert mixologists.
- The Nomad: A specialty restaurant that moves with the seasons, offering a bespoke dining experience that embraces the freshness of local produce and ingredients.
Explore the Natural Wonders of Nairobi
A mere 10-minute walk from the hotel, Karura Forest is a hidden gem that offers guests a chance to reconnect with nature. The forest features a 50-kilometre nature trail, a 12-metre-high waterfall, a series of caves, archaeological sites, and a variety of animal species.
For those looking to explore further afield, the hotel’s curators can arrange thrilling journeys to Kenya’s renowned national parks, including Amboseli, Tsavo, Maasai Mara, and Mount Kenya. These parks offer the opportunity to witness Kenya’s diverse wildlife, including the famous wildebeest migrations and elephant herds against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Hilton Honors: Rewards and Exclusive Benefits
Kwetu Nairobi is part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty programme for Hilton’s 22 world-class hotel brands. Members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels can enjoy a range of benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows them to choose nearly any combination of points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount, and free standard Wi-Fi. Additionally, members have access to digital tools available through the Hilton Honors mobile app, enabling them to check in, choose their room, and access their room using a Digital Key.
With the launch of Kwetu Nairobi, Curio Collection by Hilton continues to expand its footprint in East Africa, offering travellers a unique blend of luxury, culture, and natural beauty in one of Kenya’s most sought-after destinations.