Why Everyone is Talking About Airbnb in Kenya’s Real Estate Scene (And Why You Should Too!)
If you’ve been paying attention to Kenya’s real estate market lately, you might have noticed a new buzzword that’s popping up everywhere: Airbnb.
Whether you’re in Nairobi, Mombasa, or even cozy little towns like Nanyuki, more and more people are asking — “Should I turn my house into an Airbnb?” or “Is Airbnb a good investment in Kenya?”
Without deep thinking: the answer is a BIG yes (if you do it right)!
Now lets converse about why Airbnb is blowing up in Kenya — and why smart property owners and investors are rushing to jump in. Note the key discussion points below but not limited to your observations;
1. You Can Make Way More Money with Airbnb!
Short-term rentals make more money than traditional long-term leases.
This is a very simple truth; lets look at few facts which am sure you can as well relate to our daily life routine. Example;
A two-bedroom apartment in Kilimani might rent for Ksh 70,000/month.
That SAME apartment on Airbnb? Charge Ksh 5,500 a night — and with just 20 bookings a month, you’re making Ksh 110,000! This is just on a very normal economical events.
Even after paying for cleaning and hosting fees, you still walk away with a bigger paycheck.https://www.airbnb.com/kilimani-nairobi-kenya/stays
2. Kenya’s Tourism and Business Travel is Booming
Kenya is on fire — and not just because of the safaris!
Business events, tech conferences, remote workers, digital nomads… they’re ALL coming to Nairobi, Mombasa, Diani, Naivasha, and even Eldoret.
And guess what?
They all need comfy, stylish places to stay — and hotels just don’t cut it anymore.
Note: During the Africa Climate Summit, Airbnbs near KICC and Upperhill were fully booked for WEEKS! https://trific.co.ke/why-kenya/
You know why; because everyone wants that comfy apartment which gives the client freedom and privacy.
3. Flexibility is the Name of the Game
One of the coolest things about Airbnb?
You’re the boss.
Want to rent it out only during the holiday season? You can.
Want to use it yourself whenever you feel like it? You can.
Want to adjust the price depending on demand? You can!
Example:
Someone with a home in Naivasha could rent it out during the World Rally Championship and chill the rest of the year.
Airbnb gives you a chance to be an entrepreneurs; giving a solution at a particular time when needed.
4. Infrastructure in Kenya is Getting BETTER Every Day
Remember when Syokimau was just bushland? Look at it now!
New roads, malls, bypasses, airports… Kenya’s growth is crazy fast. And that means even “outskirts” are now prime Airbnb spots.
Areas like Ruaka, Syokimau, and Kitengela are becoming Airbnb goldmines.
5. Travelers Want Experiences, Not Just Beds
Today’s traveler wants to live like a local — not just sleep in a hotel room.
That’s why they prefer cozy apartments, beautiful homes, unique stays — all the things Airbnb does so well.
Visitors in Lamu are ditching fancy resorts to stay in stunning, authentic Swahili-style houses on Airbnb.
6. It’s Easier Than You Think to Start
You don’t need to quit your job or become a full-time landlord to succeed.
Platforms like Airbnb guide you step-by-step.
You can even hire property managers in Nairobi, Mombasa, or Diani to handle cleaning, check-ins, and messaging for you!
Imagine earning passive income while you sip a cold soda and Nyama choma.
Kenya’s real estate market is changing fast.
Don’t be left behind.
Start small, learn the ropes, and watch your Airbnb empire grow.
Thinking about starting? Drop your questions in the comments — let’s chat!
