Villa Rosa Kempinski

Think contemporary elegance with African touches. The lobby's K Lounge serves exceptional Kenyan teas and afternoon treats, whilst seven dining venues keep things interesting – from pan-Asian at 88 Lounge to wood-fired pizzas at the Italian restaurant. And the rooftop Tambourin brings Levantine flavours with city views. The spa sprawls across nine treatment rooms with a sauna, Turkish steam bath and heated outdoor pool surrounded by sun loungers. There's a well-equipped fitness centre, yoga classes and a rooftop terrace for sundowners too.

Spacious, elegantly furnished and blessed with proper city views, the 200 rooms and suites span Superior through to Presidential options. All feature king or twin beds draped in quality linens, work desks, flat-screen TVs and those winning complimentary minibars. Marble-clad bathrooms come with both tubs and walk-in showers, plus top-notch toiletries. Balcony rooms add private outdoor space, whilst suites throw in separate living areas. The Presidential Suite goes full throttle with a kitchen, dining room, private terrace, plunge pool and butler service.

The David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage (45 minutes away) opens daily at 11am for heartwarming encounters with orphaned baby elephants during their mud bath and feeding time. The Giraffe Centre lets you feed Rothschild giraffes by hand – and yes, the 'giraffe kiss' photo is worth it. Nairobi National Park offers morning game drives, spotting lions, rhinos and giraffes with the city skyline as your backdrop. Closer to town, the Nairobi National Museum and Karen Blixen Museum provide cultural diversions, whilst the Nairobi Arboretum lies just 10 minutes' walk away.