African Heritage House
A unique architectural marvel and museum showcasing diverse African art and building techniques, offering accommodation and dining.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for tours & sunset
African Heritage House
Best Time
Best for tours & sunset
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique architectural marvel and museum showcasing diverse African art and building techniques, offering accommodation and dining.
"This is the ambassadors' best kept secret! Absolutely fantastic place to visit. "
Tour is a Must-Do
A guided tour is highly recommended to understand the rich history and art. It's included with stays! :museum_tour:
Prepare for Dust
The house is full of artifacts; if you have allergies, bring your own precautions. :facewiththermometer:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Architectural Fusion
Throughout the House
A stunning blend of 12 African cultures' building techniques, from Malian mud mosques to Swahili designs.
Vast African Art Collection
Interior rooms and galleries
Home to the world's largest private collection of African art, featuring over 2,500 pieces spanning 5,000 years.
Sunset Views Overlooking Park
Terraces and gardens
Enjoy breathtaking sunset views over the national park, a perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art and Architecture
Book Ahead for an Immersive Stay
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Tour is a Must-Do
A guided tour is highly recommended to understand the rich history and art. It's included with stays! :museum_tour:
Prepare for Dust
The house is full of artifacts; if you have allergies, bring your own precautions. :facewiththermometer:
Airport Proximity
Ideal first or last stop in Nairobi, close to the airport for convenience. :airplane:
Unique Room Decor
Each room is uniquely decorated with African art, offering a distinct stay. :bed:
Tips
from all over the internet
Tour is a Must-Do
A guided tour is highly recommended to understand the rich history and art. It's included with stays! :museum_tour:
Prepare for Dust
The house is full of artifacts; if you have allergies, bring your own precautions. :facewiththermometer:
Airport Proximity
Ideal first or last stop in Nairobi, close to the airport for convenience. :airplane:
Unique Room Decor
Each room is uniquely decorated with African art, offering a distinct stay. :bed:
Photography Opportunities
Capture stunning photos, especially during sunset. The 'African mirror booth' is a popular spot. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the African Heritage House as a place for destressing, cultural immersion, and artistic discovery. The unique architecture and extensive art collection are consistently praised, making it a highly recommended destination for both day visits and overnight stays. Some guests note the presence of dust, advising those with allergies to be prepared.
"Beautiful place for completely destressing, exquisite food, and the tour of the house/museum with all the African artwork is well worth the visit. The rooms are beautifully decorated with artwork. We'll definitely try to stay for a night some time. Highly recommended!"
Arnaud Installe
"This is a fascinating place full of art and artifacts from all over Africa collected by Alan Donovan who also built the house
We didn't stay there overnight, but all the rooms are super funky. The place is rather dusty, so if you have allergies, come prepared.
We did have a lovely dinner there. I recommend at least visiting the house, as it has super amazing pieces."
Linda McLoon
"Story of an American man who came to Africa as a States relief officer during Nigeria-biafra civil war in 1967, resigned and bought a vw kombi which he used to travel through Sahara desert- congo and then to kenya where he stamped his love for African artefacts n eventually built African heritage house."
kanyi joel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The African Heritage House is located in Mlolongo, Machakos County, a convenient distance from Nairobi. Many visitors opt for a taxi or ride-sharing service, which takes approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. It's also a popular stop for cyclists on weekend rides. 
Yes, the African Heritage House is very close to JKIA, making it an excellent choice for an overnight stay upon arrival or before departure from Nairobi. This proximity is frequently highlighted by travelers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While day visits are possible, a tour of the house and its extensive art collection is highly recommended and is often included with an overnight stay. It's best to inquire about specific entry fees for day visitors.
The African Heritage House is generally open for visits and stays, but specific hours for tours or dining may vary. It's advisable to contact them directly or check their official channels for the most up-to-date information.
Absolutely! The African Heritage House offers unique accommodation with rooms adorned with African art. It's described as a fascinating cultural experience and a great place to stay.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the unique architecture inspired by various African cultures, admire the world's largest private collection of African art, enjoy gourmet meals, and relax by the outdoor pool. Sunset views over the national park are also a highlight.
A tour of the African Heritage House can take approximately 2 hours, allowing ample time to appreciate the art, architecture, and history.
The house is filled with many artifacts and can be dusty. Visitors with allergies are advised to come prepared with necessary precautions.
The venue hosts various events, including cultural celebrations, parties, and conferences. It's known for its unique ambiance, making it a memorable location for gatherings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The African Heritage House offers gourmet meals in a beautiful setting. Many visitors praise the exquisite food and the overall dining experience, often enjoyed with stunning views.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire house is a photographer's dream, with its unique architecture and art. The sunset views over the national park are particularly stunning. The 'African mirror booth' is also a popular spot for memorable shots.
Photography is generally allowed, especially for personal use, to capture the beauty of the art and architecture. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and any specific rules posted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider booking a guided tour to make the visit more engaging for younger visitors, as the stories behind the art and architecture can spark curiosity. While the house is rich in history, be mindful of the dust if any family members have respiratory sensitivities. It's a great place to introduce children to the beauty and diversity of African heritage in a memorable setting.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Airport Stopovers
A guided tour is highly recommended for day visitors to maximize their understanding and appreciation of the art and architecture. Enjoying a meal at their restaurant with its exquisite food and scenic views can also be a highlight of a short visit. It's a fantastic way to destress and immerse yourself in African culture before or after a long flight.
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
The unique architectural design, which blends elements from various African traditions, further enhances the cultural immersion. Exploring the house feels like embarking on a journey across the continent, discovering the rich heritage and diverse traditions of its people. The stories behind the artifacts and the house's creation add a profound layer to the experience.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision of Alan Donovan
Donovan's vision was to create a space that celebrated the diversity of African traditions. He meticulously incorporated building techniques from 12 different African cultures, making the house itself a living exhibition. Each room tells a story, reflecting the ancient traditions of distinct peoples from across the continent. This dedication to authenticity and cultural representation is what makes the African Heritage House so special.
+1Today, the house stands as a gazetted national monument, a recognition of its significant cultural and historical value. It continues to serve as a museum, a guesthouse, and a venue for events, all while honoring Alan Donovan's legacy and his profound appreciation for African art and architecture.
+1Architectural Marvels and Artistic Treasures
+1Beyond its architectural brilliance, the house boasts the world's largest private collection of African art, featuring over 2,500 pieces. These artifacts represent a vast span of history, with some dating back 5,000 years. From intricate sculptures and masks to vibrant textiles and pottery, the collection offers an unparalleled glimpse into the artistic expressions of various African societies.
Visitors often describe the rooms as 'funky' and 'adorned with African art,' highlighting the immersive experience of staying or touring the house. The sheer volume and diversity of the artwork, combined with the unique architectural design, make the African Heritage House a truly remarkable destination for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit