Kenya has long been known for its stunning wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, making it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.
As a result, the country has a thriving hospitality industry, with numerous five-star hotels that cater to the needs of both local and international visitors.
In this article, we will explore the owners of Kenya’s top five-star hotels and how they have made their mark on the industry.
Villa Rosa Kempinski is a luxurious hotel located in Nairobi, Kenya. The hotel is owned by Adil Popat, a prominent businessman and the son of the late Abdul Karim Popat.
Adil inherited a significant portion of his father’s vast estate, estimated at Kshs 2.5 billion, which includes the Simba Colt Motors franchise, as well as a host of other businesses.
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Adil Popat’s net worth is estimated to be around Kshs 10 billion. His wealth is attributed to his successful management of Simba Corporation, which is one of the largest privately-owned conglomerates in Kenya.
The company has interests in various sectors, including motor sales, service and leasing, real estate, hardware supplies, manufacturing, cinemas, film distribution, hospitality, and finance.
The Fairmont Norfolk Hotel, a landmark hotel in Kenya that dates back to 1904, boasts an impressive history and an opulent present.
Originally owned by Saudi billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Tala, the property was later sold to Nepalese billionaire lawmaker Binod Chaudhary for a staggering Sh 2.8 billion.
Today, the hotel continues to welcome guests with its fresh and luxurious interior, complete with a solid custom appeal.
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With 170 guest rooms and suites, the Fairmont Norfolk Hotel offers guests a range of top-notch amenities, including a health club, a well-heated open-air swimming pool, steamy landscaped grounds, and a spacious eatery serving up a variety of delectable dishes.
The hotel’s 27 luxurious suites and 143 rooms are designed to evoke a sense of old-world charm and elegance, while also featuring contemporary design elements that are sure to impress.
In addition to its top-notch accommodations, the Fairmont Norfolk Hotel is also surrounded by beautiful, well-manicured gardens, providing guests with breathtaking views of the landscape.
Windsor Golf Hotel and Country Club
Nestled in the tranquil Ridgeways area of Nairobi, the Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club stands out as a city hotel like no other.
This 4-star family-friendly hotel boasts a distinctive Victorian-themed ambience, with 130 individually furnished rooms, expansive conferencing and event spaces set across acres of breathtaking gardens, and world-class amenities that can accommodate over 2,000 guests.
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Among the hotel’s many outstanding features is its 18-hole golf course, which immediately takes guests’ breath away as soon as they step onto the property.
This exquisite hotel is a hidden gem that showcases one of the most incredible sceneries in the region, making it a popular venue for many high-profile weddings in the country.
The Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club was previously owned by the late Honorable John Njoroge Michuki, whose legacy is still felt throughout the premises.
Located in a stunning art nouveau building, the Boma Inn is a luxurious 5-star hotel that is designed to cater to the needs of both corporate and leisure travellers.
With 148 spacious and well-equipped rooms and suites, ranging in size from 37-329m², the hotel offers a variety of accommodation options to suit any preference.
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From lavish banquet halls and boardrooms to a swimming pool and sun deck, a spa, gym, two restaurants, a coffee shop, and a cocktail lounge, the Boma Inn has everything you need to make your stay unforgettable.
Owned by the Kenya Red Cross, the Boma Nairobi boasts a modern and contemporary design with high-end facilities that are guaranteed to exceed your expectations.
Nairobi Safari Club is a premium hotel that provides an array of exceptional facilities for its guests. From a pristine swimming pool to a well-equipped gym, guests can indulge in a challenging and invigorating experience.
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For social and corporate events, Nairobi Safari Club offers versatile spaces that can cater to a wide range of occasions. Whether you’re planning a wedding, banquet, product launch, or gala dinner, they offer several spacious rooms that can accommodate visitors. Their grand ballroom, for instance, can host up to 800 guests and is perfect for large-scale events.
Nairobi Safari Club is owned by the billionaire entrepreneur Stanley Githunguri.
Ole Sereni, an African-themed hotel owned by Placid View Properties, offers a unique and unforgettable experience to its guests.
Strategically located near Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Wilson Airport it is the perfect destination for both business and leisure travelers.
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One of the hotel’s key features is the stunning view of Nairobi National Park, the only park located within the city. Guests can relax and take in the beauty of nature while enjoying a variety of amenities such as an outdoor pool, two restaurants, and a health club offering massages, sauna, aerobics, steam, and salon services.
 The hotel caters to both large and small groups and has a range of facilities to accommodate business, conference, and leisure events.
The hotel is owned by a group of successful businessmen including Mr. Kul Bhakoo, Bobby Jandu of Allied Plumbers, Mso Dave Bola, a Zambian entrepreneur, and Nazir Noobin, a seasoned businessman.
The Richard Evans-owned hotel boasts a luxurious ambience that exudes class and sophistication. The rooms are spacious and airy, with high ceilings that create a feeling of openness and freedom.
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The en-suite bathrooms are vast and bright, with ample space to move around and refresh yourself. Each room has a private terrace that is large enough to accommodate a small gathering, where you can sit and soak in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The hotel comprises of 45 suites, each uniquely designed and named after famous people from Kenya and around the world.
For instance, the Meryl Streep room, located in the Hollywood wing, is one of the many exquisitely furnished rooms that will leave you feeling pampered and relaxed.
The presidential suites, which are penthouse style, are two in number and offer the ultimate in opulence and luxury. The junior suites are equally impressive, culminating in vaulted beams that add an extra layer of grandeur to the overall design.