Pumbaa Farmhouse + Cottages

The property was so well kept and inviting. It felt like you were nested in the forest but close to all the sites, restaurants and other places to visit in Karen

This was my first time traveling to Africa from California (I'm a woman in my 60's who traveled solo) and I started my trip staying at the Pumbaa Farmhouse and Cottages before a safari. Before I traveled, Bev was extremely helpful and communicative and answered my many questions. She and her husband Iby are the friendliest, most delightful hosts one could hope for. I LOVED the grounds, my cottage, and the peacefulness and beauty of this property. The incredible songs and sounds of the birds, the beautiful and lush landscaping, the call to prayer heard from the distance -- all added to the magic of my stay. The breakfast was so delicious, there were lovely amenities, and my cottage was beautiful and looked just like the photos -- it could not have been a better introduction to this wonderful country. Pumbaa is close to the Giraffe Center, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, the Karen Blixen Museum and more. It was easy and fast to get an Uber, yet the property feels remote, private, and very safe. If I ever return to Kenya, I will absolutely stay here again. In fact, I would love to see Bev and Iby again, they are doing so many upgrades to their gorgeous property which are amazing! Bev's designs and touches inside and out are so tasteful, elegant, and beautiful. I love her style and she buys from and supports Kenyan purveyors. Bev and Iby and their cottages deserve a solid 10 out of 10!

The breakfast was very exquisite. There was a little chili in the omelette. This was the best omelette I have ever eaten. It was very impressive to have breakfast in the beautiful outdoor environment. The interior decoration is very thoughtful, the cushions are made of coffee bags, giving people a sense of reality and relaxation, and reminding guests that this was once Karen Blixen's coffee farm. Many of the decorations are designed by the landlord herself, which is very surprising. Although containers are industrial products, the landlord has wrapped them with a lot of plants, making the containers very organic and natural. As an architect, this makes me respect it.

The gardens at the property are to die for. They have different birds in the property that make mornings super magical. I would also advise any guest to have a sun downer on cottage 2.

Breakfast was excellent. I enjoyed fresh fruit with granola. I had Nespresso coffee to start my day. There was also good quality tea options The most compelling part of the stay is the serenity. Pure Bliss I found the cottage to be of very high quality with good products being offered One felt at peace with nature despite being just a few minutes from the heart of Karen

To be hones, the experience surpassed my expectations so there was nothing negative about my experience. I am actually looking forward to my next experience as I am aware that there will be additions to the fitness options

Fantastic hosts, and a very very pleasant short stay. Would definitely come again and 100% recommend to others. I was only here for a short time as a stop on my travels, but for future I know the team have great access to local things to do and attractions, golf and so much more! The cottage was amazing, very unique and unlike anything I’d ever stayed in, it was cosy, had everything I needed and the outdoor space was looking over beautiful grounds the hills and the other stunning cottages. Really was very well set out with lovely decor and comfy furniture (and bed!) inside.

The environment is cozy and quiet. The rooms are very modern, containers converted into cute and cozy cottages. It was lovely to know that they provide breakfast. You can also take long walks in the neighbourhood.

The restaurant and spa did not seem to be ready for use, which is something we didn't realise as we booked. We were told these would be ready next year so we can't wait to come back.