It is said that this area in Kenya inherited its name from Danish author, Karen Blixen, who resided in this leafy residential suburb when it was then just rolling farmlands. She sold her farm to a developer who over time evolved it into the luxurious, comfortable and affluent neighbourhood it is today. 

Bordering the Ngong Forest to the east and the Nairobi National Park to the south, houses for sale in Karen are ideal for those who want to be surrounded by natural beauty. As it’s away from the hustle and bustle of the CBD, property-seekers are soon taken by the tranquil environment and peaceful lifestyle on offer. Property for sale in Karen is comprised of many high-end homes that are favoured by an affluent community of locals and foreigners as well as some of the city’s senior government officers. 

Property styles and options range from fully-furnished and serviced apartments to large free-standing homes and Victorian townhouses on well-manicured garden plots. Along with the character-rich appeal of Karen, houses for sale here also remain within convenient distance to esteemed medical, educational, retail and recreational facilities. Take a look at the available houses for sale in Karen to find the perfect property to fall in love with.

“An affluent suburb which served as the location for the 80s film, ‘Out of Africa’. Home of horse riding, golfing and the Karen Blixen Museum; currently ranked as #9 of 42 attractions in Nairobi."

Tripadvisor

Explore Karen

Decadent dining

Decadent dining

With a number of 5-star restaurants and classic eateries nearby, residents can expect a delightful array of spots to enjoy international dishes and delicious delicacies in Karen. Local favourites include Haru Japanese, Osteria Del Chianti and Que Pasa Bar and Bistro.

Business

Business

The African Wildlife Foundation and the Nyumbani Children Home are two NGOs in Karen while other notable businesses include the Headquarters of Nyumabani, Spurwing Travel and Tours Limited, Kenya Safari Experts, Renie Cars and Muguku Poultry Farm.

Nature

Nature

To the east of Karen lies the expansive Ngong Forest that provides the perfect place to enjoy outdoor exercise, scenic walks or just a leisurely picnic. 

Sport and recreation

Sport and recreation

Find out more about the history and cultural influences of the area at the Karen Blixen Museum or head to the greens of the Grand Karen Golf Club and enjoy 18 holes on this championship course.

Living in Karen

Areas near to Karen

Diani, Gigiri, Hurlingham, Kileleshwa, Kilifi, Kilimani, Kitisuru, Lamu, Lang’ata, Lavington, Loresho, Lower Kabete, Malindi, Mombasa, Muthaiga, Nairobi, New Muthaiga, Parklands Nairobi, Riverside, Runda, Spring Valley, Westlands,

Education

This area boasts of a high number of international schools such as Nairobi Waldorf School and St Christopher Preparatory while local options include St Elizabeth’s Academy, Karen South School, Africa International University and a branch of Catholic University of East Africa.

Healthcare

The renowned Karen Hospital is a private, multi-specialty healthcare provider that offers 24/7 services as well as a dialysis centre and pharmacy. Other health care facilities include Embulbul Catholic Dispensary and the Karen Health Clinic.

Shopping

Karen Shopping Centre has an impressive array of shops which offer a variety of products from fashion to foodstuff and everything in between. Even more choice can be found at the Cross Roads Mall and Nakumatt Karen. 

Travel

Karen is 31kms from the national airport and less than 30 minutes from the City Centre. This area can be accessed via Ngong Road or Langata Road which connects to surrounding residential suburbs.

For example Camps Bay or Mauritius