The average rental yield for serviced apartments within the Nairobi Metropolitan Area increased by 0.7 percentage points to 6.2 per cent in 2022 from 5.5 per cent in 2021, with Westlands and Kilimani being the best-performing nodes, with rental yields of 9.3 and 7.2 per cent respectively compared to the market average of 6.2 per cent.
The performance of serviced apartments, within which aparthotels fall, was attributed to, (i) proximity to the CBD, (ii) the presence of high-quality serviced apartments available in the nodes which attract premium rates, (iii) the ease of accessing the areas through well-developed infrastructure road networks, and, (iv) the proximity to international organization offered by the apartments, all of which drive the demand for serviced apartments in the nodes.
Although the embrace of aparthotels in Kenya is said to be at an infant stage, stats show the contrary to the belief with the uptake of the services rising with time. Consumers are increasingly moving away from the traditional hotel setup where everything is scheduled with customers expected to adhere to in an “automated manner” to aparthotel where there are free to make decisions as to what to cook and when to cook.
Here are the top 10 aparthotels in Nairobi today:
- Somerset Westview Nairobi – If one is looking for the ambiance, appreciation of silence, peace, and comfort while in Nairobi either for business or social purposes, Somerset Westview Nairobi should be the first place to stop and never think of leaving.Located in the serene environments of Kilimani, along Nyangumi Road, and off Lenana Road, Somerset Westview Nairobi offers accommodation with free Wi-Fi, a garden with an outdoor swimming pool, and access to a fitness room and a sauna.Each unit at Somerset Westview Nairobi comes with a fully equipped kitchen with a dining table, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and a private bathroom with a shower, free toiletries, and a hairdryer. A fridge, a dishwasher, and a microwave are also featured, as well as a kettle. It also offers a children’s playground. Free private parking and a business center are available, as well as a 24-hour front desk.What is more, they were awarded the top honor of ‘Leading Serviced Apartment Brand’ in Africa, at the World Travel Awards 2022. Somerset won out of six nominees spread across the continent, including Cowrie Shell Beach Apartments in Kenya, Fraser Suites in Abuja – Nigeria, and Latitude Aparthotel, in South Africa.
- Dreamfield Nest – Dreamfield Nest by Skynest Apartments is situated in the heart of Westlands, Nairobi, and features accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking, as well as access to a sauna. The aparthotel provides guests with a terrace, city views, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge and a microwave, and a private bathroom with a bidet and free toiletries. It also comes with a children’s playground that can be found at the accommodation, along with a shared lounge.
- Norfolk Towers – Nestled in the heart of Nairobi Central Business District (CBD), Norfolk Towers service apartment offers 70 fully furnished apartments to leisure travelers as well as business travelers. The prime location of Norfolk Towers Serviced Apartments in the heart of Nairobi’s central business district allows for easy access to business and entertainment venues in the city. Their soundproof rooms help in locking out the Nairobi noise.
- Mimosa Court – Mimosa Court Apartments is located just 500 m from the Royal Nairobi Golf Club and within 2 km of Nairobi’s city center. Each apartment has a DVD player, a balcony, and a TV with satellite channels. The kitchen is fully equipped and includes a microwave. The property features a health club that includes a gym, sauna, jacuzzi, and steam. Massages are available on request at an extra cost. The only challenge here is that this establishment is not that friendly for those with kids.
- Black Rose Apartments – Black Rose is a small complex of 1- and 2-bedroom apartments, with a beautiful garden and pleasant communal swimming pool. While the furniture and appliances are quite old and maintenance issues are common, Black Rose offers great value in an excellent location. It is a great place for those who are not into new and trendy things.
- The King Post – The King Post features cozy apartments built in a castle-like and boasts unique Swahili architecture with Arabic, Portuguese and Indian influences. The apartments at The King Post combine simplicity with old-world charm. Each comes with mahogany and oak furnishings, a TV, a fully furnished kitchen, and a private bathroom.
- Palacina – Palacina is a great place to meet business and leisure travelers from all around the world. Conveniently located in the State House area, it is the perfect base for your Nairobi visit. As a small boutique hotel, it features luxurious, serviced, and furnished hotel apartments, premium suites, and a full-service hotel.
- L’Aziz Suites – L’Aziz Suites provides modern apartments for guests exploring Nairobi. Most of the units have a chic living area that features a complete entertainment set, comfortable couches, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Units also come with a full kitchen in each accommodation that comes with utensils, cooking appliances, a sink, and a mini counter bar.
- The Grand Gables – These apartments are situated along East Church Road, off Raphta Road constructed in a cottage-like building, and showcase the country’s magnificent architectural and cultural gems. Each unit is furnished with an entertainment set, kitchen appliances, and a private bathroom.
- Fedha Residences – They are situated along Tigoni Road. They have modern apartments embellished with modern decor that gives comfort and convenience to the guests. Inside, the main room serves both as a dining and entertainment area.
