by Realtors 
Ever wondered where the crème de la crème of Nairobi reside? This vibrant Kenyan capital city is home to some of the most prestigious places to live in Nairobi and exclusive neighborhoods in the country. Let’s explore three of the most coveted areas: Runda, Lavington, and Karen.
1. Runda: An Affluent Haven
- Overview:
- Located in the northern part of Nairobi, Runda is known for its affluent status and serene environment.
- The neighborhood was named after the coffee estate that existed in the area before it became a residential zone.
- Runda is bounded by Limuru Road, Ruaka Road, and Kiambu Road, with coffee plantations to the north.
- The area encompasses Old Runda, Mimosa, and Closeburn Estate, among others.
- Runda is separated from Nairobi’s city center by the 2,500-acre Karura Forest, offering a peaceful setting away from the bustling city.
- History:
- Runda was developed in 1972, primarily due to the demand for housing when the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) established its headquarters in nearby Gigiri.
- The first phase of the estate, known as Old Runda, was completed between 1972 and 1980.
- The estate spans about 14 square kilometers and was once home to several coffee factories.
- Living in Runda:
- Residents enjoy a mix of luxury homes, green spaces, and a tranquil environment.
- The landscape varies from 1,690 meters to 1,727 meters above sea level, providing scenic views and fresh air.
2. Lavington: Upper Middle Class to Upper-Class Serenity
- Overview:
- Lavington is situated approximately 5.5 km northwest of Nairobi’s central business district and is part of the Westlands sub-county.
- It hosts residents ranging from the upper-middle class to the upper class, offering a blend of low to medium-density housing.
- Historically, Lavington was the site of the St Austin’s Mission, established by the French Holy Ghost Fathers.
- Amenities and Attractions:
- The area is home to several prestigious schools, including Strathmore School, Saint Mary’s School, and Loreto Convent School.
- Lavington Green Shopping Centre provides residents with convenient shopping options, dining experiences, and entertainment.
- The Kirichwa tributary of the Nairobi River runs through Lavington, adding to its natural charm.
- Development and Lifestyle:
- While Lavington has yet to see large-scale high-rise developments like nearby Kileleshwa and Kilimani, future development plans by the Nairobi County Government could change this.
- The neighborhood is becoming increasingly popular for its upmarket bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.
3. Karen: The Tranquil Suburb Named After a Literary Icon
- Overview:
- Karen is a suburb located southwest of Nairobi’s central business district, bordering the Ngong Forest.
- It’s known for its spacious mansions, tree-lined streets, and tranquil atmosphere.
- The suburb is named after Danish author Karen Blixen, whose farm once occupied the land where the suburb now stands.
- Historical Significance:
- After Nairobi became a city in 1950, Karen was placed under the Nairobi City Council’s administration in 1963.
- Karen Blixen’s former home is now the Karen Blixen Museum, a key tourist attraction in the area.
- Other attractions include the AFEW Giraffe Center, Giraffe Manor, Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage, and Oloolua Forest nature trails.
- Living in Karen:
- The neighborhood is characterized by large homes on expansive plots, with a minimum acreage requirement for homeowners, ensuring a spacious and green environment.
- Karen has also become a hub for upscale restaurants, hotels, and malls, such as The Hub and The Waterfront.
- The suburb offers a blend of luxury living with a touch of nature and wildlife.
Conclusion
Runda, Lavington, and Karen each offer a unique and luxurious living experience in Nairobi. Whether you’re drawn to Runda’s serene environment, Lavington’s blend of convenience and exclusivity, or Karen’s historical charm and spacious landscapes, these neighborhoods stand out as some of the most prestigious places to call home in Nairobi.
