Best Places for Digital Nomads to Live in Kenya

Kenya, a country located in East Africa, is an ideal destination for digital nomads seeking adventure, culture, and affordability. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cities, Kenya offers a unique experience for those looking to work and travel. In this article, we'll explore seven cities and towns that are sure to captivate digital nomads.

Nairobi

Nairobi, Kenya's capital city, is a melting pot of cultures and offers a wealth of opportunities for digital nomads. With its modern infrastructure, high-speed internet, and numerous coworking spaces, Nairobi is an excellent base for those looking to be productive. Visit the National Museum of Kenya to learn about the country's history, or unwind at Uhuru Gardens, a scenic park overlooking the city.

Cost of Living: Renting a nice furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $400-$600 per month. Groceries for one person for a week are approximately $50, and a moderate dinner for one with a drink can be found for around $15.

Nomad Tip: Don't miss a visit to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, located just outside Nairobi. Here, you can get up close and personal with baby elephants and other animals as they are rehabilitated for release back into the wild.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Westlands neighborhood is popular among digital nomads, with numerous coworking spaces and a variety of restaurants and bars. For dining, check out the Carnivore Restaurant, famous for its barbecued meats.

Diani Beach

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life at Diani Beach, a beautiful coastal town known for its pristine white sand beaches. Digital nomads will appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and reliable internet connection. Spend your free time exploring the nearby Shimba Hills National Reserve or relaxing at the Jomo Kenyatta Public Beach.

Cost of Living: A nice furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $300-$500 per month. Groceries for one person for a week are approximately $40, and a moderate dinner for one with a drink can be found for around $10.

Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Diani Beach Festival, which takes place annually in June, featuring music, dance, and cultural performances.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Diani Beach area has numerous resorts and guesthouses catering to digital nomads. For dining, try the Ocean Beach Restaurant, which offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

Mombasa

Mombasa, Kenya's second-largest city, boasts a rich history and diverse culture. Digital nomads will appreciate the city's modern infrastructure and numerous coworking spaces. Explore the Fort Jesus Museum to learn about the city's history or take a stroll through the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Cost of Living: A nice furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $300-$500 per month. Groceries for one person for a week are approximately $50, and a moderate dinner for one with a drink can be found for around $12.

Nomad Tip: Don't miss a visit to Haller Park, a former quarry turned nature reserve, featuring a variety of wildlife and lush gardens.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Mombasa Old Town area is popular among digital nomads, with numerous coworking spaces and a variety of restaurants and bars. For dining, try the Forty Thieves Beach Hotel, which offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

Lake Naivasha

Escape to Lake Naivasha, a serene freshwater lake nestled in the Great Rift Valley. Digital nomads will appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and reliable internet connection. Spend your free time exploring the nearby Crescent Island Game Sanctuary, where you can go hiking and spot a variety of wildlife.

Cost of Living: A nice furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $350-$550 per month. Groceries for one person for a week are approximately $50, and a moderate dinner for one with a drink can be found for around $12.

Nomad Tip: Don't miss a sunset boat ride on the lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and wildlife.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Elsamere Lodge and Conference Center is a popular choice among digital nomads, offering comfortable accommodations and reliable internet connection. For dining, try the Lake Naivasha Country Club, which offers a variety of local and international dishes.

Meru

Experience the beauty of the Meru region, located in the eastern part of Kenya. Digital nomads will appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and reliable internet connection. Spend your free time exploring the nearby Meru National Park, home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, rhinos, and lions.

Cost of Living: A nice furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $300-$500 per month. Groceries for one person for a week are approximately $50, and a moderate dinner for one with a drink can be found for around $10.

Nomad Tip: Don't miss a visit to the Meru Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Meru people.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Meru Town area has a variety of guesthouses and restaurants catering to digital nomads. For dining, try the Meru Golf and Country Club, which offers a variety of local and international dishes.

Thika

Located just an hour from Nairobi, Thika is a great option for digital nomads seeking a more affordable cost of living. The town offers reliable internet connection and a peaceful atmosphere. Spend your free time exploring the nearby Thika Forest Reserve or visiting the Thika Market, a bustling local market selling fresh produce and handmade goods.

Cost of Living: A nice furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $200-$400 per month. Groceries for one person for a week are approximately $35, and a moderate dinner for one with a drink can be found for around $8.

Nomad Tip: Don't miss a visit to the Thika Dam, a popular spot for picnics and birdwatching.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Thika Town area has a variety of guesthouses and restaurants catering to digital nomads. For dining, try the Thika Palm Hotel, which offers a variety of local and international dishes.

Malindi

Malindi, located on the Indian Ocean coast, is a popular destination for digital nomads seeking a tropical paradise. The town offers reliable internet connection, a laid-back atmosphere, and beautiful beaches. Spend your free time exploring the nearby Watamu Marine National Park or visiting the Malindi Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the area.

Cost of Living: A nice furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $300-$500 per month. Groceries for one person for a week are approximately $50, and a moderate dinner for one with a drink can be found for around $12.

Nomad Tip: Don't miss a visit to the Malindi Cassia Garden, a beautiful botanical garden featuring a variety of plants and animals.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Malindi Town area has a variety of guesthouses and restaurants catering to digital nomads. For dining, try the Malindi Marine Club, which offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

There you have it, seven incredible cities and towns in Kenya that are perfect for digital nomads. Each destination offers its unique charm, attractions, and affordability. Happy travels!