Hidden Gems of Kenya: Discover 5 Rooftop Swimming Pools in Nairobi

Kenyan urban centers are rapidly adopting contemporary architectural trends, which now include the incorporation of rooftop swimming pools in commercial buildings including hotels. 

Nairobi offers a myriad of unique experiences for residents and tourists and rooftop swimming is one of the ways to experience breathtaking views of the cityscape or natural landscape. 

This article explores some of best rooftop pools, where you can soak in breathtaking views of Nairobi while enjoying a refreshing swim and savoring delicious beverages and food. 

Further, the pools listed provide exclusivity and privacy, allowing swimmers to enjoy their time away from the hustle and bustle below.

Additionally, the rooftop pools are accompanied by amenities such as lounges, bars, or sun decks, enhancing the overall relaxation and enjoyment.

Trademark Hotel Rooftop Pool

Set in Nairobi along Limuru Road and about a 10-minute walk from Village Market, Trademark Hotel boasts a rooftop swimming pool. 

The pool provides magnificent views of the surrounding areas of the Village Market mall as well as the greens in the neighborhood and Nairobi’s skyline. 

Guests can also enjoy a meal or drink at the Harvest Restaurant that specializes in African and local cuisines including delicious meat. Also, a continental breakfast is served daily at the property for guests. 

Aside from the relaxing and fun experience guest can have at the pool, the hotel also provides free luggage storage services. The staff at the 24-hour front desk, fluent in both English and Swahili, are readily available to assist guests with any inquiries. 

Guests can also indulge in the air-conditioned guestrooms fitted with flat screen TV with satellite and cable channels. Each unit has its own private bathroom with free toiletries and has its own safety deposit box.

The hotel prides itself in its strategic location, as the Two Rivers Mall is only a 13-minute drive away. Wilson Airport is set 15 km from Trademark Hotel while Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is 27.5 km away.

Furthermore, the property offers airport shuttle services upon request.

Also Read: Hidden Gems of Kenya: Inside the Olkaria Hot Water Pool in Naivasha

Sarabi Pool at Sankara Hotel Nairobi

Located in Nairobi’s commercial, and entertainment district, Westlands, the Sarabi Pool appeals majorly to business-travelers in the city.

It is unique for its multi-cuisine, wine bar and a steakhouse serving guest relaxing at the pool. Additionally, the pool is heated to 25 degrees Celsius making it a perfect choice for a quit unwinding time after a long day out. 

The Sarabi Pool is 18 meters long and is open from 6 o’clock in the morning to 6 o’clock in the evening. However, after 6:00 pm, guests must be 25 years of age or older to access the facility. 

It provides a unique view of the Nairobi’s skyline and offers a variety of room types, suites, presidential suite and an executive lounge with concierge services.

Daily access to the pool costs Ksh2,500 per day, while guest pay Ksh20,000 for monthly subscription and Ksh75,000 per year for a subscription. Additionally, 12-session swimming lessons are available for Ksh15,000. 

Emara Ole Sereni Rooftop Pool

The Ole Sereni Hotel brags as the only one of its kind around the world which has a national park view with a rooftop pool area.

Located adjacent to a waterhole frequented by wildlife, the rooftop swimming pool area offers guests the unique opportunity to observe elephants, giraffes, and gazelles as they lounge around the pool area. 

Guest gets to enjoy peace and quiet that can only be found in the outdoors.

Also, the pool area is equipped with comfortable lounge spots, cool lighting, the spacious and open-air terrace that provides a beautiful view of the Nairobi National Park and the city skyline.

The rooftop menu includes everything from shareables and bites, to crafted signature cocktails, mocktails, beers and an extensive wine menu.

Also Read: The Hidden Gems of Kenya: Exploring the Baboon Parliament in Suswa

Cloud 9 Rooftop Pool at Clarence House Hotel

Cloud 9 Rooftop Pool, located at Clarence House Hotel is a beautiful 29 degrees Celsius pool located 3.8 km from Nairobi National Museum.

The hotel also provides other facilities enjoyable by guests including a garden, barbecue facilities, free Wi-Fi and free private parking.

Known for its inviting ambience, this rooftop space provides a delightful setting for socializing with friends and family. Guests can savor their favorite cocktails while admiring the stunning sunset. 

Swimming charges for adults are Ksh1,000 per day and Ksh10,000 for monthly prescriptions. On the other hand, charges for children are Ksh500 per day and Ksh5,000 per month.

Pool services are open from 8:00am to 6:00pm everyday of the week. However, guests can enjoy the units provided including a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with a hot tub, bathrobes and slippers. 

Villa Rosa Kempinski Hotel

Nairobi’s Villa Rosa Kempinski Hotel is a luxury hotel offering guests a variety of world class facilities including a beautiful rooftop swimming pool. 

The hotel is nested within Nairobi’s Westlands neighborhood and offers other amenities including gym facilities, a Jacuzzi, steam room and sauna. 

The pool is heated to a consistently perfect temperature for you to swim in, exercise and unwind after a long day of work or play.

According to the hotel’s website, the public can access the swimming pool and facilities by booking a spa treatment. The swimming pool is open from 7.00am to 6.00pm.

While guest unwind and relax at the pool area, they can order meals and drinks that are delivered to them as there is no bar at the pool area.