Tracing its history to 1902, the Stanley was Kenya’s first luxury hotel and has become a legend. Ernest Hemingway stayed here and mentioned it in his short stories, and guests have ranged from Sean Connery, Michael Caine and Frank Sinatra to Richard Branson. Earlier, it housed explorers and pioneers including Ewart Grogan, the first person to cross Africa from Cape Town to Cairo, and Henry Morton Stanley.
At a glance
Location: Downtown Nairobi, Kenya
Stayed in: Club Room, city view
Best for: history lovers and travellers before or after safari
Reviewed: July 2014
8.7 out of 10
Setting and arrival
Coming from the Masai Mara, I was collected at Nairobi Wilson airport in a new black Mercedes. A manager greeted me at check-in and showed me to my room. The original revolving door, a working vintage telephone and historic photographs are lovely reminders of the hotel’s past.
The rooms
Several renovations have brought the hotel up to modern standards while preserving its classic character. Categories include Club Rooms, Executive Suites and individually named Heritage Suites. My Club Room had twin beds facing a flat-screen TV and desk, a seating area and city views.
The verdict
Well-trained staff, opulent classic interiors and a central downtown location keep the Stanley Nairobi’s classiest historic hotel.
- Rooms: 8.5
- Service: 9.0
- Dining: 8.5
- Facilities and spa: 8.5
- Location: 9.0
Sarova Stanley Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya.
David stayed as a guest of the hotel. Based on a stay in July 2014. Facilities, menus and prices may have changed since.
