“Located in the heart of Nairobi, Emara Ole Sereni is a relative newcomer to Nairobi’s burgeoning luxury hotel scene. It borders the north side of Nairobi National Park and has a first-floor terrace giving direct views across the savannah. It also offers 5-star accommodations, multiple stunning dining options and interiors that really have the wow factor. Read on to discover why I love this hotel so much.”
Background and Concept
Conveniently set in Nairobi, 11KM from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and 10 KM from the city centre, Emara Ole Sereni, is the perfect base for a city adventurer. The hotel presents 87 unique rooms, of which ten are spacious suites including two signature top-floor suites and 20 apartments, Guests can choose to dine at the hotel’s Acacia restaurant, It serves all-day buffets with a spread of diverse Global cuisine. The restaurant is operational 24/7, it boasts a beautiful terrace where you can cherish the views of the Nairobi National Park.
There is also the Oasis bar which has an extensive range of assorted cocktails, a wine cellar, liquors and mocktails. It has views of the Nairobi National Park.
Savour a range of your favourite freshly brewed coffee, a collection of teas, sandwiches and pastries at the Karibu cafe. You can unwind, meet, network or just drink in the aroma of this place. Located on the ground floor lobby area,
Guests can also make use of the gym which includes a range of cardio equipment and free weights.
The hotel has plenty of amenities to enjoy, with a hair salon to get you ready for a night of fun and adventure. Also, take a trip to the gift shop for authentic and exciting gifts and souvenirs. There are some fantastic items from crafts, clothes and jewellery with unique African designs.
LOCATION
The hotel is located along Mombasa road with a view of the Nairobi National Park and below are some of the things that are close by
- NextgenMall – 8 min walk
- Nairobi Railway Museum – 8 min drive
- Kenya Railway Golf Club – 8 min drive
- Nyayo National Stadium – 8 min drive
CHECKING IN
Being located next to the Nairobi National Park, it boasts spectacular views over the plains of the park and the city skyline. Don’t get too excited about the Ole-Sereni’s proximity to Nairobi National Park: there’s normally very little to see in the way of wildlife. Moreover, Ole-Sereni does not have any significant grounds or gardens beyond its car park: despite its location,
The design mixes wooden and marble fixtures with colourful furnishings and African artwork to showcase the beauty of its surroundings. Every room of the hotel has been designed for comfort and ease, making you feel as though you are at home away from home.
ROOMS AND APARTMENTS
Emara Ole Sereni offers 87 beautifully decorated rooms (ten of which are suites). With views of the city or national park, they are all filled with Lisbon’s bright and remarkable light.
THE ROOMS
The room was sleek and contemporary and with comfortable furnishings for relaxation. There were remarkable views out over the national park and of the city skyline. With the comforts of home and a modern design, the room was luxurious and sophisticated in one.
The bathroom was just as beautiful as the rest of the room with its marble countertops and soft shower. The hotel also supplies a variety of luxury bathroom products, from lotions, soaps, vanity kits and more. For convenience and comfort, the mini-fridge is fully stocked with whiskeys, beers, wines, soft drinks, and snacks.
THE APARTMENT
If you’re looking for a little more space and luxury during your stay, the apartments are the perfect option. It offers a separate living area and bedroom plus a kitchenette, complimentary internet access, 46inch widescreen TV and Egyptian cotton linen. There is plenty of room to relax, beautifully decorated with either queen-size or twin beds, personalised check-in, two bathrooms, two televisions, and Gilchrist and Soames amenities.
FOOD AND DRINKS
The Acacia restaurant uses buffet servings throughout the day to keep you fuelled up for your stay. There was always a variety of options to choose from, with western and traditional African delicacies filling the tables. The presentation of each dish is artistic and can be enjoyed in the indoor seating area or out on the terrace with views of the national park. You can enjoy your dinner with the view of giraffes and wildebeest among the plains. On certain nights the restaurant hosts theme nights to be enjoyed, trying out different dishes from other cultures. Just make sure to book a table so as not to miss out.
To one end of the restaurant is the Oasis Bar with a sleek marbled design. Here you can enjoy a sumptuous selection of cocktails, beers and wines to sip on as the world goes by. You can also take your drinks out onto the terrace to watch the sunset over the national park.
On the ground floor just off from the lobby is the Karibu Cafe which serves coffee, tea and pastries. This is a great spot to grab a quick snack before heading out on an excursion or to relax and watch the world go by.
MY DINING EXPERIENCE
During my stay, I dined in Acacia restaurant, find a snapshot of my experience below.
SKY LOUNGE
If you are looking for stellar views of the City and National Park in a more refined atmosphere, then look no further than the sky lounge rooftop bar. It screams exclusivity with a dash of attitude. The sophisticated ambience and the chilled vibes are perfect for hanging out and definitely Insta-worthy…
FINAL THOUGHTS
Calm and mysterious Emara Ole Sereni s really is an oasis for the weary traveller, It is a place to swap the urban jungle outside for the human jungle inside. Its public spaces are all insta-worthy, dining options are incredible, service is on point and the rooms are places of calm where you are guaranteed to be able to recharge your batteries.
BOOKING
The room rates start from $200, and each has a different view to select from. With an onsite pool, salon, and restaurant, your every need can be met. I would suggest heading over to the Nairobi National Park as it is just next door to the hotel. You can also head out into the city and explore the museums, the nightlife, and the delicious restaurants.
While you are enjoying your stay in Nairobi, you can also search below for things to do