• Do I need a visa to travel to Kenya?

  • What should I pack?

  • How do I get around?

  • What is the best time of year to visit?

  • Is Hemingways Collection family-friendly?

  • Can I combine multiple Hemingways properties into one itinerary?

  • Do you offer special packages for honeymoons or anniversaries?

Yes, most visitors require a visa to enter Kenya. As of January 2024, Kenya has launched a digital Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system for all foreign visitors, replacing the traditional visa process. You can apply online before you travel. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay and that you have at least two blank pages available. For the most accurate and current requirements, check with your local Kenyan embassy or official government site before departure.

Layers are key. Light, breathable clothing in neutral colours is ideal for safari, but temperatures can shift quickly, so bring a warm layer for early morning and evening game drives. Don’t forget sun protection, insect repellent, a hat, and binoculars. At the coast, lightweight beachwear is perfect.

Domestic flights are the most efficient way to connect between Nairobi, the coast, and safari destinations. Private transfers, 4×4 vehicles, and charter flights are common for safari travel. Hemingways Expeditions can assist with every aspect of your journey, from the moment you land in Kenya until the moment you depart, ensuring seamless travel throughout your stay.

Kenya is a year-round destination, but your ideal timing depends on what you want to experience. The dry seasons (January to March and July to October) are ideal for wildlife viewing, especially in the Mara during the Great Migration. The coast is warm and tropical year-round, with calm seas in December to February. The green seasons in April, May, and November are lush and quiet, offering peaceful escapes and lower rates.

Absolutely. Hemingways properties offer a warm welcome to families, with tailored amenities and experiences for children of all ages. From beach days and wildlife spotting to cooking classes and cultural encounters, there are plenty of engaging activities. Some properties have age-specific policies for safety and comfort, particularly in the Mara, so it’s best to check individual property details when booking.

Yes. Our team specialises in designing seamless itineraries that combine multiple properties for a rich and diverse Kenyan experience. Whether you want a beach and bush combo or a journey through Nairobi, Eden, Ol Seki, and Watamu, we can coordinate transfers, timings, and accommodations to suit your preferences. Special circuit rates are available for multi-property stays.

 

Yes. Hemingways Collection offers honeymoon and celebration packages that include exclusive perks like complimentary nights, room upgrades, personalised gifts, and romantic touches. These can be tailored across any of our properties and are subject to availability and terms. Proof of occasion may be required at check-in.

 

  • How far is Hemingways Nairobi from the airport?

  • What should I pack?

  • How do I get around?

  • What attractions are nearby Hemingways Nairobi?

  • Is Hemingways Nairobi suitable for business travellers?

  • Can I book spa treatments without staying overnight?

  • What dining options are available at Hemingways Nairobi?

Hemingways Nairobi is approximately 40 minutes from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and 20 minutes from Wilson Airport, depending on traffic. We offer private transfers with comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles to ensure a seamless arrival and departure. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak travel times.

Pack light, breathable layers for daytime and a warm jacket for cooler evenings. Nairobi’s weather is generally mild. Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and smart casual attire for dining are recommended.

Private transfers can be arranged through our concierge. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt are also widely available. Many nearby attractions are within a short drive from the hotel.

Located in the leafy suburb of Karen, our hotel is close to many popular Nairobi attractions including the Giraffe Centre, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Nairobi National Park, and the Karen Blixen Museum. You can also explore local boutiques, golf courses, and art galleries nearby.

 

Yes. We offer a range of facilities tailored to corporate guests including fast Wi-Fi, private meeting rooms, 24-hour butler service, and seamless transport arrangements. Many executives also appreciate our serene location, which offers privacy and calm after a day of business.

 

Yes. Non-resident guests are welcome to book treatments at our spa, subject to availability. Advance reservations are encouraged to ensure your preferred time and therapist.

 

Dining at Hemingways Nairobi is a refined experience, centred around the Brasserie, which serves a thoughtfully curated menu of international and modern European cuisine throughout the day. Guests can also enjoy curated wine tastings or intimate private dinners in the glass-enclosed Wine Tasting Room, or relax with cocktails and light bites in the elegant bar and on the terrace overlooking the Ngong Hills.

 

  • What kind of safari experience can I expect at Ol Seki?

  • What should I pack?

  • How do I get around?

  • What are the tented accommodations like at Ol Seki?

  • When is the best time to visit for the Great Migration?

  • Are game drives included in the stay?

  • Is Ol Seki suitable for families with children?

Ol Seki offers an intimate and authentic safari experience in the private Naboisho Conservancy, which borders the Maasai Mara. With fewer vehicles and limited camps in the area, guests enjoy exclusive game drives, bush breakfasts, sundowners, and the chance to see the Big Five and rare species like cheetah, wild dog, and caracal. Our expert guides enhance each drive with in-depth knowledge of wildlife and local ecosystems.

Neutral-toned, breathable clothing is ideal for daytime, with warm layers for early game drives and cool evenings. Bring sun protection, insect repellent, a hat, binoculars, and a camera. Closed shoes are recommended for walks.

You’ll be transferred by bush flight from Nairobi to the Naboisho Conservancy airstrip. All game drives and activities at Ol Seki are conducted in custom 4×4 vehicles by our experienced guides. Private vehicles are available on request.

Our luxury tents are fully enclosed with canvas walls and large windows, offering panoramic views and total comfort. Each tent features an en-suite bathroom, solar-powered lighting, plush bedding, and private decks. Nina tents are perfect for couples, while the Simba and Chui suites are ideal for families or groups.

 

The Great Migration typically reaches the Mara between July and October. During these months, thousands of wildebeest and zebra cross from the Serengeti into Kenya, often with dramatic river crossings. That said, wildlife viewing is excellent year-round at Ol Seki, thanks to resident game in the Naboisho Conservancy.

 

Yes. Daily game drives are included and led by experienced guides using custom safari vehicles. Morning and evening drives offer the best opportunities for sightings, and full-day drives with picnic lunches can also be arranged. Bush walks and cultural visits can be added on request.

 

Ol Seki welcomes families, and our larger suites are ideal for multi-generational stays. However, we recommend the experience for children aged six and older. The camp is unfenced and located in the bush, so parental supervision is required at all times. Special child-friendly activities and guides can be arranged.

 

  • What makes Hemingways Watamu unique?

  • What should I pack?

  • How do I get around?

  • Are water activities available at the hotel?

  • What are the dining options at Hemingways Watamu?

  • Is the hotel family-friendly?

  • How close is the hotel to Malindi or Mombasa airports?

Hemingways Watamu is a beachfront haven located on the edge of a marine reserve. With its iconic white façade, calm turquoise waters, and award-winning hospitality, it offers both a serene escape and a base for ocean adventure. It’s ideal for couples, families, and solo travellers seeking barefoot luxury on Kenya’s coast.

Pack lightweight beachwear, sunhats, sunglasses, and sandals. For marine activities, bring reef-friendly sunscreen and a waterproof bag for cameras or phones. A light shawl or jumper is useful for cooler evenings.

Most attractions are a short tuk-tuk ride or private transfer away. We offer transport to and from Malindi Airport (30 mins), and can help you explore Watamu Marine Park, Mida Creek, and nearby cultural spots.

Yes. Guests can enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, deep-sea fishing, and dhow cruises. Our water sports centre provides all equipment and guidance. The nearby Watamu Marine Park is a protected area teeming with coral reefs and sea life, perfect for snorkelling and diving.

 

Our restaurant overlooks the ocean and serves seasonal seafood, international dishes, and coastal Kenyan specialities. Enjoy breakfast with a sea breeze, al fresco lunches, and candlelit dinners. The Gede Café offers casual light bites and refreshments throughout the day.

 

Yes. We welcome families and offer amenities like interconnecting rooms, shallow pool areas, children’s menus, and curated activities. Babysitting services are available on request. The calm beachfront and local attractions like Bio-Ken Snake Farm and Arabuko-Sokoke Forest also make it great for curious young minds.

 

The hotel is a 30-minute drive from Malindi Airport and about 2.5 hours from Mombasa Moi International Airport. We can assist with transfers and regional flights to ensure a smooth journey.

 

  • What is the atmosphere like at Hemingways Eden Residence?

  • What should I pack?

  • How do I get around?

  • Is Eden Residence suitable for private events?

  • What types of accommodations are available at Eden Residence?

  • What experiences can I enjoy during my stay?

  • Is Hemingways Eden Residence open to non-resident visitors?

Hemingways Eden Residence is a tranquil retreat nestled in the leafy Langata suburb of Nairobi. Once an artist’s home, it now welcomes guests with warmth, creativity, and refined comfort. Surrounded by forest and art, Eden feels more like a private estate than a hotel, offering an atmosphere of quiet inspiration and exclusivity.

Pack relaxed, stylish layers, including a light jacket for forest mornings and evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are ideal for garden and sanctuary strolls. Art lovers may want a journal or sketchbook for creative inspiration.

Our team can arrange private drivers or taxis for local visits. We’re located just 20–30 minutes from central Nairobi, and many excursions like the Giraffe Centre or Karen Blixen Museum are close by.

Yes. Eden is ideal for exclusive use, small weddings, creative retreats, or intimate celebrations. The property includes both the Main House and Studio Lofts, with beautiful shared spaces like the veranda, dining room, bar, and gallery. Our team will work closely with you to tailor your experience.

 

Eden offers nine individually designed rooms across the Main House, The Studio, and a secluded cottage. The space blends art, design, and nature with bespoke interiors, ensuite bathrooms, and tranquil views. The Main House features three bedrooms and shared living areas, while the Studio includes lofted rooms with garden or forest views.

 

Guests can enjoy nature walks through the adjacent Giraffe Sanctuary forest, curated art tours, sip-and-paint sessions, cooking classes, and relaxing spa treatments. The setting also offers access to Nairobi’s vibrant creative and cultural scene, with museums, studios, and dining experiences just minutes away.

 

Yes. Non-resident guests are welcome to dine, book spa treatments, or attend special events at Hemingways Eden Residence. Advance bookings are recommended to ensure availability and a personalised experience. Eden’s intimate atmosphere is best suited for those seeking quiet luxury, artful design, and meaningful connection.

 

  • What makes Hemingways River Camp unique?

  • What should I pack?

  • How do I get around?

  • What activities are available during my stay?

  • Is River Camp suitable for children and families?

  • When is the best time to visit Hemingways River Camp?

  • What is included in the rate?

Hemingways River Camp offers an exclusive, off-the-grid safari in the heart of Mara North Conservancy. With just eight individually designed tents, the camp is ideal for travellers seeking privacy, flexibility, and immersive nature experiences. It’s a Wi-Fi-free, soul-restoring setting where the days are shaped by wildlife sightings, riverside stillness, and seamless service.

Think layers: breathable safari clothing for day, a warm fleece or jacket for evening, and a hat and sunscreen for sun protection. A soft daypack, binoculars, and a camera are highly recommended.

Arrive by scenic bush flight from Nairobi. While at the camp, private or shared game drives and guided bush walks are available. Our team handles all safari logistics, ensuring a seamless experience in the Mara North Conservancy.

Your stay includes twice-daily game drives led by expert guides. You can also enjoy bush breakfasts, sundowners, cultural visits, and hot air balloon safaris (on request). Each day is flexible, designed entirely around your interests. Families can opt for child-friendly bush walks, storytelling sessions, and curated junior ranger activities.

Yes. River Camp’s Family and Private Suites are ideal for multi-generational stays. Children can enjoy tailored safari activities and curated downtime between game drives. Due to the camp’s unfenced nature, we recommend the experience for children aged six and up, with parental supervision at all times.

The camp is open year-round, with July to October being peak for the Great Migration. The green seasons (April–June, November) offer lush landscapes and excellent wildlife without the crowds. January–March is also ideal for photography and resident predator sightings in Mara North.

Your rate includes luxury tented accommodation, all meals, selected drinks, twice-daily game drives, and personalised hosting. Conservancy fees, balloon safaris, premium beverages, and transfers are additional. Guests in the Private Suite enjoy their own chef, guide, and safari vehicle.

  • What is Hemingways Retreat Kigali known for?

  • What cultural attractions are nearby?

  • What should I pack?

  • How do I get around?

  • Is Hemingways Retreat Kigali suitable for wellness-focused stays?

  • What kind of cuisine can I expect?

  • How far is Hemingways Retreat Kigali from the airport?

Hemingways Retreat Kigali is Rwanda’s first eco-conscious luxury boutique hotel. Located in the quiet Kiyovu neighbourhood, it offers a serene base to explore Kigali’s rich culture, history, and art. With just 20 individually designed rooms and a strong focus on wellness, it’s a haven of calm with curated local experiences.

The hotel is minutes from the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Inema Arts Centre, House of Tayo, and local artisan markets. Guests can also enjoy curated excursions to Nyamirambo, Kimironko Market, and community visits arranged by our concierge team.

Bring lightweight clothing for warm days, plus a jacket or sweater for cooler mornings or mountain excursions. A scarf or modest cover is useful when visiting cultural or memorial sites. Don’t forget sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes.

Our concierge can organise airport transfers, private drivers, or guided excursions. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also available. Many popular sites, including art galleries and markets, are just a short drive from the hotel.

Yes. The Retreat offers a full spa, yoga pavilion, plant-based dining, and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for rest and reconnection. Rooftop yoga, garden treatments, and detox cuisine combine to create a holistic wellness experience.

Dining at The Retreat is a culinary journey. Fusion Restaurant serves global flavours with organic, locally sourced ingredients, while Heaven Restaurant offers a creative take on Rwandan and Pan-African cuisine. Kosher and private dining options are available on request.

The Retreat is approximately 25 minutes from Kigali International Airport. Private transfers can be arranged in advance to ensure a seamless arrival. Early check-in and late check-out can be requested based on availability.

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