On a two-year 'life break' in 2006 the owners, Alan and Lynita, were only around three months into their world-wide trip, when they came to Kenya, loved it and stayed. Originally staying in a hostel in central Nairobi, they took up the challenge offered by the hostel owner to operate and improve the business. It is while working at the hostel, that everyone (including the hostel owner) encouraged them to start their own tourism business, and in 2007 the original Wildebeest Camp was born in Kilimani. Wildebeest Camp then operated at this site for 5.5 years before they purchased the current property in Karen, which is now the home to Wildebeest Eco Camp and Wildebeest Travels. Prior to being a camp, this property was just a private residence, and over the last few years, has been transformed into the haven it is today. Alan & Lynita have two boys Oliver & Joel, plus two dogs Barney and Fatty.

Wildebeest Eco Camp is the ideal base in Nairobi where guests can experience a genuine ‘under canvas’ experience, from the time they land in Kenya. A welcome change from a ‘regular city hotel’, the camp is an ideal choice, whether transiting on a safari or looking for a base for a city break, long-stay, family holiday, volunteering or business trip. The camp is set in 3.5 acres of beautiful gardens, shaded by large acacia trees, around eight kilometres from the city centre in the leafy suburb of Karen (named after Danish author Karen Blixen). Here, it is possible to enjoy the best of both worlds – being away from the hustle and bustle of the city, while being conveniently close to major tourist attractions and essential amenities like ATMs, bank, supermarket, chemist, as well as a host of places to eat and socialise. There are good transport links to the city centre, as well as both the domestic and international airports, and major roads leaving the city for safari destinations. The camp is a hub for travellers, creating a homely and friendly atmosphere to meet other guests, for families to relax, catch up on work, or just enjoy your break. A true ‘home away from home'.

Karen is a beautiful leafy area of Nairobi synonymous with Kenya’s colonial era. Named after the Danish writer Karen Blixen (famous for writing ‘Out of Africa’), there are still several reminders of ‘a day gone by’ including Karen Blixen’s house, the Karen Country Club and Giraffe Manor. But today, with its roots firmly in traditional and modern Africa, Karen is home to many of Nairobi’s key tourist attractions. Within a short drive of the camp, you are able to visit: Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage AFEW Giraffe Centre Karen Blixen Museum Kazuri Beads Nairobi National Park KWS Animal Orphanage KWS Board Walk Bomas of Kenya Mamba Village Karen also has a vibrant street life, and a wide range of local and international restaurants, bars, shops, markets and places to enjoy Nairobi life. There are two major shopping centres nearby, which are home to local and international brands.