The Moi family, a name deeply entrenched in Kenya’s political history, has crafted a formidable hotel empire, reflecting their business acumen.
With investments spanning from luxurious city hotels to serene resorts, the Moi family’s hospitality ventures have not only contributed to Kenya’s economic growth but also shaped its global image as a premier travel destination.
In this article, WoK explores Moi family’s hotel empire, shedding light on how their strategic investments have positioned them as key players in the competitive world of hospitality.
1. Lord Erroll
Lord Erroll is a French gourmet restaurant and hotel situated in the Runda suburb of Nairobi, Kenya.
The restaurant was founded in 1997 by Hans Stoecklin, Michael Craig, and Felix Huwler.
In February 2013, the Moi family, led by Gideon Moi’s wife Zahra Balewa, acquired the restaurant for approximately Ksh 300 million and transformed it into a 43-room hotel.
The establishment’s name pays homage to Josslyn Victor Hay, also known as Lord Erroll, a British aristocrat and member of the “Happy Valley Set” in Kenya.
Lord Erroll was murdered in 1941 following his involvement in a love triangle.
Under the Moi family’s ownership, Lord Erroll has garnered several accolades, including the Global Award Restaurant of the Year in 2017 (LTG), recognition as one of CNN Travel’s 14 Hot New Global Restaurants for 2018, and the World Luxury Restaurant Awards in 2018.
The venue is renowned for hosting various events such as banquets, conferences, weddings, meetings, and custom events, catering to groups ranging from six to 100 people, with a garden capable of comfortably accommodating up to 300 guests.
2. InterContinental Hotel
The InterContinental Nairobi is a luxury hotel centrally located in Nairobi, Kenya.
Its prime location near the Parliament buildings, government offices, and the Kenyatta International Convention Centre makes it an ideal choice for business travelers.
The hotel boasts a wide array of amenities, including an outdoor heated swimming pool, a 24-hour gym with spa services, and a selection of restaurants and bars.
Guests can also enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, a business center, and meeting/banquet facilities.
Accommodation at the InterContinental Nairobi includes 371 air-conditioned rooms, ranging from standard rooms to the Presidential Suite and Executive deluxe suites.
The hotel also features a Club InterContinental floor. All rooms are equipped with en-suite bathrooms, internet access, telephones, and TVs.
In terms of services, the hotel provides room service, currency exchange, laundry, and babysitting. InterContinental Nairobi also offers increased accessibility features and an elevator.
Located approximately 0.4 miles from Nairobi city center and within walking distance of the Nairobi National Museum, the hotel is conveniently situated for exploring the city.
Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s recreational facilities, such as the spa, sauna, and fitness center, as well as nearby attractions like Nairobi National Park.
3. Merica Hotel
Merica Hotel is a 4-star establishment situated on Kenyatta Avenue in Nakuru, Kenya, a mere 1,300 feet from the town center.
This hotel consistently garners excellent reviews from travelers, a testament to its quality, and has been honored with a Travellers’ Choice award from Tripadvisor, placing it among the top 10% of properties listed on the platform.
The hotel boasts a restaurant that caters to diverse palates, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a focus on African, Bar, and Pub cuisines.
Breakfast is a highlight, offering a wide range of options from Continental and Full English/Irish to Vegetarian, Vegan, Halal, Gluten-free, Asian, and American, with both buffet and a la carte choices.
Beyond dining, Merica Hotel provides a range of facilities including a spa, fitness center, massage services, and convenient access to a nearby golf course.
Entertainment options abound with live music, themed dinners, and live sports events. For added convenience, there is also a barber shop located on the premises.
n terms of general amenities, Merica Hotel offers complimentary Wi-Fi, a well-stocked bar, outdoor seating and parking facilities.
4. Lake Bogoria Spa and Resort
Lake Bogoria Spa Resort is a 3-star hotel situated at the northern tip of Lake Bogoria in Kenya’s Rift Valley, roughly 266 km from Nairobi and 125 km from Nakuru Town.
Celebrated as a “healing place,” the resort is renowned for the therapeutic qualities of its spa and hot spring geysers.
Uniquely, it stands as the only resort in Kenya featuring a naturally heated pool.
The resort offers 115 rooms in various styles, including tented rooms, standard rooms, junior and executive suites, and country-style cottages, complemented by personal camping space.
Each en-suite guestroom is equipped with air conditioning, satellite TVs, minibars, and tea/coffee-making amenities.
Dining experiences are provided at the Lake Bogoria Kudu Restaurant and the Choma Ranch, where guests can enjoy both international and African dishes, along with a diverse selection of drinks.
The resort also houses banquet facilities suitable for conferences and expansive lawns perfect for recreational activities.
Available leisure pursuits include guided bird watching, excursions to Lake Bogoria National Reserve, swimming, and access to the natural spa pool.
