• By: RIYANKA
• Sep 17, 2024
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The Brandy Bus: Nairobi’s Quirkiest Airbnb That’ll Give You ‘Into The Wild’ Feel

While planning my month-long trip to Kenya, I stumbled upon a unique Airbnb in Nairobi called The Brandy Bus.

At first glance, it felt as though someone had taken Christopher McCandless’s iconic vintage bus from the Alaskan wilderness and transported it straight to Kenya!

As it intrigued me further, I researched about it, only to realize that this vintage 1974 double-decker bus, transformed into a cozy Airbnb, was tucked away in the peaceful suburb of Karen in Nairobi, which isn’t pretty popular amongst tourists.

However, I was in love with it at first sight, so I booked it for a night without wasting much time!

[Quick fact: This double-decker bus originally belonged to the owner’s grandfather and had been sitting in his garden for over 30 years, gathering dust. Eventually, she decided to transform it into a quirky little guesthouse that everyone could enjoy.]

Also, the Brandy Bus has garnered rave reviews from guests who have had the pleasure of staying there. Many people mentioned about the unique ambiance and thoughtful touches that made the accommodation truly one-of-a-kind.

If you’re someone who loves retro charm mixed with adventure, you’ll have to check this place out.

Why should you consider spending a night in The Brandy Bus?

A Nostalgic Vintage Retreat

Right after I landed in Nairobi, I booked a cab straight to Karen, which is tucked away from the hustle of the city. From the moment I stepped aboard the Brandy Bus, I felt like I had traveled back in time. The vibrant colors, quirky décor, and thoughtful little details made it a truly unique stay.

The lower deck had a cozy lounge area with plush seating, a dining area overlooking the garden, and a fully equipped kitchenette — perfect for preparing quick meals or just relaxing after a day of exploring.

But I found real magic in the upper deck, which housed two spacious rooms, with comfortable queen-sized beds, with tons of cushions, making them perfectly cozy! The rooms were flooded with sunshine as I kept the windows open, with a gentle breeze keeping it cool. However, at night, we had to close the windows—thanks to the mosquitoes that decided to fly in, uninvited!

The bus even had a separate bathroom on the lower deck, with a hot shower, which added a touch of luxury to this quirky retreat.

If you’re a bookworm like me, you’ll love the collection of books on board! Plus, there’s high-speed internet if you fancy watching a movie under the stars! There are some board games as well, but I ended up spending all my time chilling in the garden, enjoying the cozy vibes and soaking in the sunshine.

The Perfect Location in Karen, Nairobi

Located in the lush suburb of Karen, the Brandy Bus was the ideal base for exploring Nairobi. I was just a short drive away from Nairobi National Park, where I had the chance to see incredible wildlife up close and spotted the BIG 5. The Giraffe Centre, another must-visit place, was also nearby, where I got to interact with giraffes in person. The David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage was also there, where I decided to foster a baby elephant.

Apart from that, the local culture was equally captivating, and a trip to the Maasai Market gave me a chance to pick up some beautiful handcrafted souvenirs. Staying in Karen meant I could enjoy both the tranquility of the suburbs and the excitement of Nairobi’s top attractions.

Distance from the Brandy Bus:

Nairobi National Park: 7.7 km, Giraffe Centre: 9.7 km, David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage: 9.8km, Maasai Market: 17 km, Kenya Railway Museum: 16.9 km, National Museum of Kenya: 19.6 km.

Coincidentally, the host shared her name with that of the place, (yeah, the host’s name is Karen as well) and she recommended some great restaurants during our stay. While I didn’t get enough time to interact with her, she left a beautiful handwritten note with a fridge magnet for us, before we left the Brandy Bus!

Cost for 2: Rs. 10,592 per night (The bus can accommodate up to 6 guests).

To book this property, click here.

For those with a taste for adventure and a love for vintage aesthetics, the Brandy Bus offers an extraordinary escape in the heart of Nairobi. Its retro charm, exceptional amenities, and convenient location make it the perfect base for exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty.

Whether you’re a solo traveler exploring Nairobi for just 48 hours, a couple in search of a romantic getaway, or a group of friends looking for a unique experience, the Brandy Bus promises an unforgettable stay that will be etched in your memories forever.