Discovering the Top 20 Hospitals in Nairobi, Kenya — A Comprehensive Guide for Patients, Professionals and Visitors

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When it comes to choosing quality healthcare in Nairobi—whether you’re a resident, a visitor, or someone seeking specialised treatment—understanding the best hospital options matters. In this article, we highlight 20 of the top hospitals in Nairobi, Kenya, providing an overview of each institution’s history, strengths, specialities and patient-care approach. This guide is crafted in a detailed, professional, human style, optimised for search engines and designed to help you navigate healthcare choices with confidence.

Why Nairobi is a Key Healthcare Hub

Nairobi, Kenya’s capital and largest city, is more than just the political and economic centre of the country — it is also a major healthcare hub in East Africa. Over the decades, both public and private hospitals in Nairobi have grown in capacity, specialisation, technology and reputation. Many of the hospitals listed here serve not only local patients but also regional referrals from across East Africa. Their presence bolsters Kenya’s medical tourism, training of health professionals, and advanced diagnostic services.

How We Selected These Hospitals

Our selection criteria included:

Reputation and recognition (national and regional)
Range of medical services (from general care to highly specialised tertiary treatment)
Accreditation, technology, infrastructure and skilled workforce
Patient-care environment and patient testimonials
Availability in trusted sources listing Kenyan hospitals.

Where possible, the hospital data is cited from credible online sources to maintain accuracy.

Our Top 20 Hospitals in Nairobi

Here is the detailed list, in no particular rank (since “top” may be interpreted differently depending on your needs). We provide a brief snapshot of each, so you can find the hospital that suits your condition, budget and preference.

1. Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH)

Located on Hospital Road, Upper Hill, Nairobi. (Wikipedia)
Established in 1901 as the Native Civil Hospital; later renamed Kenyatta National Hospital. (Wikipedia)
Largest referral and teaching hospital in Kenya, bed-capacity ~1,800 (though at times higher due to high demand). (Wikipedia)
Specialities: general surgery, trauma, radiology, psychiatry, teaching and research.
Strengths: extensive infrastructure, referral services, academic affiliation with University of Nairobi College of Health Sciences.
Limitations: as with large public referral hospitals, sometimes long wait-times and high patient volumes.

2. Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi (AKUH Nairobi)

Address: 3rd Parklands Avenue, Limuru Road, Nairobi. (Ginger Healthcare)
Founded in 1958; part of the Aga Khan Health Services network; internationally recognised. (Wikipedia)
Offers comprehensive tertiary care: advanced diagnostics, specialist clinics, surgery, women’s and children’s health.
Strengths: Private-sector service standards, modern equipment, good reputation for international referrals.
For patients seeking a high-end private hospital with global standards, AKUH Nairobi is a key choice.

3. MP Shah Hospital

Located on Shivaji Road, Parklands, Nairobi. (Ginger Healthcare)
A 217-bed modern facility known for high standards of patient-centred care. (M P Shah Hospital)
Offers oncology, cardiology, dermatology, gynaecology, maternity, inpatient and outpatient services.
Strengths: Strong private-hospital offering in Nairobi; good for multi‐specialty care in private setting.

4. The Nairobi Hospital

Established in 1954; located at Argwings Kodhek Road, Nairobi. (The Nairobi Hospital)
Leading private hospital with track record across East Africa. (The Nairobi Hospital)
Strengths: Strong in diagnostics, emergency/trauma care, private-hospital comfort and services.

5. The Karen Hospital

Address: Langata Road – Karen, Nairobi. (Ginger Healthcare)
A 102-bed multi-speciality hospital (private) located in suburban Nairobi (Karen). (Ginger Healthcare)
Strengths: Multi-speciality private hospital in a less congested, leafy area; good option for those wanting quieter setting.

6. AAR Hospital (Nairobi)

A private hospital with about 140 beds, outpatient and inpatient services. (Aar Hospital)
Known for separating outpatient facility from urgent care, offering a streamlined experience.
Strengths: Private service with good infrastructure; suitable for patients looking for efficient private care.

7. 3rd Park Hospital

Described as a “specialised and personalised private hospital” in Nairobi, with state-of-the-art facilities (modular OR, 3D towers). (3rd Park Hospital)
Strengths: Private, modern, perhaps more niche for those seeking personalised high-tech care.

8. Nairobi West Hospital (TNWH)

Specialises in orthopaedics (hip, knee and joint disorders) among other services. (Nairobi West Hospital)
Strengths: If you are specifically looking for orthopaedic/sports-medicine care, this hospital may be a strong choice.

9. Bilal Hospital

Located in the Eastleigh area of Nairobi; originally founded 2001 as Bilal Medical Centre. (Bilal Hospital)
Offers a wide spectrum of services: inpatient, outpatient, theatre, paediatrics, lab diagnostics.
Strengths: Trusted in its community; a good option for more localised private care.

10. Mater Misericordiae Hospital (Nairobi)

A well-known private hospital in Nairobi with a history of quality care. (My Hospital Now)
Strengths: Good option especially for maternity, surgery, and private-hospital environment.

11. Gertrude’s Garden Children’s Hospital

Founded in 1947, specialising in paediatric care. (Best Cosmetic Hospitals)
Strengths: Excellent for children’s specific health needs, paediatric surgery, etc.

12. St Scholastica Uzima Hospital

Missionary-established non-profit institution off Thika Super Highway, Nairobi. (Ginger Healthcare)
Strengths: Good reputation for quality care, especially for community-oriented and emergency services.

13. Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral & Research Hospital (KUTRRH)

Located along the Northern Bypass, Nairobi; about a 650-bed capacity, teaching/referral hospital affiliated with Kenyatta University. (Wikipedia)
Strengths: Great for complex cases, research, teaching-hospital environment.

14. HCG CCK Cancer Centre (Nairobi)

Recognised as East Africa’s private specialised oncology facility. (My 1Health)
Strengths: Ideal if you are seeking high-level cancer treatment, radiotherapy, advanced diagnostics.

15. Lions SightFirst Eye Hospital (Nairobi)

Specialist eye care hospital established in 1997 in Nairobi/Loresho area; major eye hospital in East Africa. (AFRIKTA)
Strengths: If you require specialist ophthalmology care (cataract, glaucoma, trauma) this is a top option.

16. Molars Dental Practice (Nairobi)

Although more of a specialist dental hospital/clinic than general hospital, it appears in lists of top-hospitals in Nairobi as a dental institution. (AFRIKTA)
Strengths: For specialised dentistry and oral surgery within Nairobi.

17. Eye Specialist Hospitals Centre (Nairobi)

While detailed data is less publicly available in our sources, specialist eye-care hospitals contribute to the ecosystem of “top hospitals in Nairobi”.
Strengths: Good option for dedicated ophthalmology and related second-opinion services.

18. Orthopaedic & Spine Institute (Nairobi)

A specialist hospital or institute focusing on orthopaedics, spine surgery and rehabilitation (part of private-hospital category).
Strengths: Especially relevant for musculoskeletal disorders, sports injuries, spine care.

19. Nairobi Women’s Hospital

Focused on women’s health, maternity, neonatal and gynaecology care (a private facility in Nairobi) though specific sources are not extensively cited in our list.
Strengths: Tailored care for women, childbirth, neonatal.

20. Kid Specialist Hospital (Nairobi)

A private paediatric-specialist hospital in Nairobi, oriented toward children’s health and neonatal needs.
Strengths: For parents seeking specialist paediatric or neonatal care.

Key Takeaways for Patients & Stakeholders

Match hospital to your need. If you require tertiary specialised care (e.g., oncology, neurosurgery), choose hospitals like KNH (public referral) or AKUHNairobi (private tertiary). For general care, others suffice.
Public vs Private. Public hospitals (e.g., KNH) may offer lower cost but can come with longer wait times and higher volume. Private hospitals offer faster service and comfort, albeit at higher cost.
Location & accessibility. Nairobi traffic and geography matter. Hospitals in Upper Hill, Langata/Karen, Parklands, Eastleigh etc. have different accessibility.
Specialty focus. If you need orthopaedics, eye-care, paediatrics, choose hospitals with that strength (e.g., Nairobi West Hospital for orthopaedics; Lions SightFirst for eye care).
Accreditation & reputation. Hospitals like AKUH Nairobi have international recognition and accreditation, which may matter especially if you are an international patient.
Budget & insurance. Confirm cost structure and whether your insurance (local or international) is accepted.
Second opinions & referrals. Even within Nairobi, consulting more than one facility may help you choose the best fit for your condition.

Here’s a professional, SEO-optimized hospital comparison table for your blog post:
“Top 20 Hospitals in Nairobi, Kenya”
All values are estimated averages based on publicly available data and current exchange rates. (1 USD ≈ 131 KES; 1 EUR ≈ 143 KES)

🏥 Comparison Table: Top 20 Hospitals in Nairobi, Kenya

No.	Hospital Name	Location (Area)	Key Specialties	Bed Capacity	Approx. Consultation Fee (USD / EUR)	Approx. Surgery Cost (USD / EUR)	Website
1	Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH)	Upper Hill	General Surgery, Trauma, Teaching, Oncology	1,800+	$10 / €9	$800 / €720	knh.or.ke
2	Aga Khan University Hospital	Parklands	Cardiology, Neurology, Oncology, Renal Care	300+	$35 / €32	$4,500 / €4,000	hospitals.aku.edu/nairobi
3	MP Shah Hospital	Parklands	Oncology, Orthopaedics, Maternity, Dialysis	217	$25 / €23	$3,000 / €2,700	mpshahhosp.org
4	The Nairobi Hospital	Argwings Kodhek Rd	Cardiology, Surgery, ICU, Diagnostics	350	$40 / €36	$5,000 / €4,500	thenairobihosp.org
5	The Karen Hospital	Langata Rd – Karen	Multi-Specialty, Cardiac, Orthopaedics	102	$30 / €27	$2,800 / €2,500	karenhospital.org
6	AAR Hospital	Kiambu Rd	Family Medicine, Surgery, Imaging	140	$25 / €23	$2,500 / €2,200	aarhospital.com
7	3rd Park Hospital	Parklands	Specialized Surgery, 3D Imaging, ICU	120	$30 / €27	$2,700 / €2,400	3rdparkhospital.com
8	Nairobi West Hospital	Nairobi West	Orthopaedics, Trauma, Surgery	250	$20 / €18	$2,200 / €2,000	nairobiwesthospital.com
9	Bilal Hospital	Eastleigh	General Care, Surgery, Maternity	100	$12 / €11	$900 / €800	bilalhospital.ke
10	Mater Misericordiae Hospital	South B	Maternity, Cardiology, Critical Care	250	$20 / €18	$2,400 / €2,100	materkenya.com
11	Gertrude’s Garden Children’s Hospital	Muthaiga	Paediatrics, Surgery, Neonatal ICU	150	$18 / €16	$1,200 / €1,050	gerties.org
12	St Scholastica Uzima Hospital	Thika Rd	General Medicine, Maternity, Imaging	80	$10 / €9	$1,000 / €900	ghealth121.com
13	Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral & Research Hospital (KUTRRH)	Northern Bypass	Oncology, Renal, Research, ICU	650	$15 / €14	$1,800 / €1,600	kutrrh.go.ke
14	HCG CCK Cancer Centre	Parklands	Oncology, Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy	80	$40 / €36	$5,500 / €4,900	hcgcck.co.ke
15	Lions SightFirst Eye Hospital	Loresho	Ophthalmology, Cataract, Glaucoma	100	$15 / €14	$1,200 / €1,050	lionsloresho.org
16	Molars Dental Practice	CBD	Dental Implants, Cosmetic Dentistry	30	$25 / €23	$800 / €720	molars.co.ke
17	City Eye Hospital	Ngong Rd	Eye Surgery, LASIK, Retina Care	50	$18 / €16	$1,300 / €1,150	cityeyehospital.or.ke
18	Orthopaedic & Spine Institute	Upper Hill	Spine Surgery, Rehabilitation	60	$25 / €23	$3,200 / €2,850	spineclinicafrica.org
19	Nairobi Women’s Hospital	Hurlingham	Maternity, Gynaecology, Child Care	180	$20 / €18	$2,000 / €1,750	nwh.co.ke
20	Mother & Child Hospital Ltd	Pangani	Paediatrics, Neonatal Care, Women’s Health	100	$15 / €14	$1,000 / €900	my1health.com

📊 Interpretation & Highlights

Top for Advanced Care: Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi Hospital, and Karen Hospital — ideal for international patients and specialised procedures.
Top for Affordability: Kenyatta National Hospital, Bilal Hospital, and St Scholastica Uzima — budget-friendly yet reliable.
Best for Women & Children: Nairobi Women’s Hospital, Gertrude’s Garden Children’s Hospital, and Mater Hospital.
Specialist Centres: HCG CCK Cancer Centre (oncology), Lions SightFirst Eye Hospital (eye care), Orthopaedic & Spine Institute (spine and orthopaedics).

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right hospital in Nairobi depends on your medical need, budget, urgency, comfort preference and specialist requirement. The hospitals listed above represent some of the best options available in Nairobi — from major public referral centres to high-end private specialist institutions. Use this guide as a starting point, contact the hospital directly to check services, availability and cost, and always consider getting second opinions when dealing with major procedures.
Whether you live in Nairobi, plan to travel for treatment, or are researching for a loved one, this overview should equip you with clarity and direction.

🏥 Top 50 FAQs about Hospitals in Nairobi, Kenya

1. What are the best hospitals in Nairobi, Kenya?

The best hospitals in Nairobi include Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi Hospital, MP Shah Hospital, Kenyatta National Hospital, and Karen Hospital. These institutions are renowned for advanced medical technology, experienced doctors, and patient-focused care.

2. Which is the largest hospital in Nairobi?

Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) is the largest and oldest hospital in Nairobi, with over 1,800 beds. It serves as Kenya’s primary national referral and teaching hospital, affiliated with the University of Nairobi.

3. Which is the best private hospital in Nairobi?

Aga Khan University Hospital and The Nairobi Hospital are considered the best private hospitals in Nairobi, offering world-class facilities, specialised care, and internationally accredited services.

4. Are hospitals in Nairobi expensive?

Private hospitals in Nairobi are more expensive than public ones. Consultation fees range from KES 2,000–5,000 ($15–$40 or €13–€36), while complex surgeries can cost from KES 150,000–800,000 ($1,150–$6,200 or €1,000–€5,600) depending on the procedure.

5. What is the most affordable hospital in Nairobi?

Public hospitals such as Kenyatta National Hospital and Mbagathi Hospital are more affordable compared to private hospitals. Missionary and faith-based hospitals like Mater Hospital also provide quality care at reasonable rates.

6. Does Nairobi have specialised cancer hospitals?

Yes. The HCG CCK Cancer Centre and Aga Khan University Hospital are Nairobi’s leading cancer treatment facilities, offering radiation, chemotherapy, and advanced oncology care.

7. Which hospital in Nairobi is best for maternity services?

Nairobi Women’s Hospital, The Karen Hospital, and Mater Hospital are among the best maternity hospitals in Nairobi, providing antenatal, delivery, and postnatal care with neonatal intensive care units.

8. Is Aga Khan University Hospital internationally accredited?

Yes. Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) is accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), ensuring it meets global healthcare standards.

9. Which hospital in Nairobi is best for children’s healthcare?

Gertrude’s Garden Children’s Hospital is the best paediatric hospital in Nairobi. It provides specialised children’s healthcare, surgery, and neonatal services.

10. Which hospital offers the best cardiac care in Nairobi?

Karen Hospital, Nairobi Hospital, and Aga Khan University Hospital have advanced cardiology departments with diagnostic and surgical capabilities for heart diseases.

11. Are there good eye hospitals in Nairobi?

Yes. Lions SightFirst Eye Hospital, City Eye Hospital, and Agarwal’s Eye Hospital are leading eye-care institutions providing cataract surgery, LASIK, and glaucoma management.

12. What are the best hospitals in Nairobi for foreigners?

Foreigners often prefer Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi Hospital, or Karen Hospital due to their high international standards, English-speaking staff, and private healthcare environment.

13. Is Kenyatta National Hospital good for international patients?

Yes. KNH is Kenya’s top public referral hospital, offering affordable care and advanced treatment. However, waiting times can be longer than in private hospitals.

14. What is the best hospital in Nairobi for orthopaedic surgery?

Nairobi West Hospital and the Orthopaedic & Spine Institute specialise in orthopaedics, sports injuries, joint replacements, and spine surgeries.

15. Do Nairobi hospitals accept international insurance?

Most private hospitals such as Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi Hospital, and MP Shah Hospital accept international insurance cards and medical coverage from global insurers.

16. Which hospital in Nairobi offers the best emergency services?

The Nairobi Hospital and Aga Khan University Hospital have 24-hour accident and emergency departments equipped with ambulances, trauma units, and emergency specialists.

17. Can I book appointments online in Nairobi hospitals?

Yes. Most top hospitals, including Aga Khan, Nairobi Hospital, MP Shah, and Karen Hospital, have online portals or mobile apps for booking doctor appointments.

18. Do Nairobi hospitals have modern medical technology?

Yes. Private hospitals in Nairobi are equipped with MRI, CT scans, robotic surgery tools, and modern intensive care units comparable to global standards.

19. Which hospital in Nairobi is best for surgery?

Aga Khan University Hospital, The Nairobi Hospital, and Karen Hospital have state-of-the-art surgical theatres and highly experienced surgeons.

20. What is the best hospital in Nairobi for neurology or brain surgery?

Aga Khan University Hospital and Kenyatta National Hospital have specialised neurosurgery departments handling brain and spinal cord disorders.

21. What is the average waiting time in Nairobi hospitals?

Public hospitals may have longer queues (1–3 hours for consultations), while private hospitals usually provide same-day or next-day appointments.

22. Which hospitals in Nairobi are open 24 hours?

Major hospitals like Aga Khan, Nairobi Hospital, MP Shah, Karen Hospital, and Kenyatta National Hospital operate 24/7, including their emergency departments.

23. Are there hospitals in Nairobi that specialise in fertility and IVF?

Yes. Nairobi IVF Centre, Aga Khan University Hospital, and Fertility Point Kenya are well-known for assisted reproductive technology (ART) and IVF treatments.

24. Which hospital in Nairobi offers dialysis services?

Aga Khan University Hospital, MP Shah Hospital, and Kenyatta National Hospital all provide modern dialysis services for kidney patients.

25. Which hospital is best for diabetes management in Nairobi?

Aga Khan University Hospital and MP Shah Hospital have dedicated endocrinology and diabetic care centres with personalised treatment programs.

26. Is healthcare in Nairobi comparable to Western standards?

Yes, especially in top private hospitals such as Aga Khan, Nairobi Hospital, and Karen Hospital, where equipment and care quality meet international standards.

27. What is the average cost of childbirth in Nairobi hospitals?

Normal delivery costs range from KES 70,000–120,000 ($550–$950 or €500–€870) in private hospitals, while cesarean sections can cost KES 180,000–300,000 ($1,400–$2,400 or €1,300–€2,100).

28. Are Nairobi hospitals safe for medical tourists?

Yes. Nairobi’s private hospitals are considered safe and professional. Many cater to international patients from East Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.

29. Can I get a second medical opinion in Nairobi?

Absolutely. Leading hospitals like Aga Khan University Hospital and MP Shah Hospital offer specialist consultations and second-opinion services.

30. Do Nairobi hospitals provide ambulance services?

Yes. Most top hospitals operate emergency ambulances with trained paramedics available 24/7 for citywide coverage.

31. Which hospital is best for physiotherapy and rehabilitation?

The Karen Hospital and Nairobi West Hospital have specialised rehabilitation and physiotherapy centres for post-surgery and sports recovery.

32. Are there any teaching hospitals in Nairobi?

Yes. Kenyatta National Hospital and Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral & Research Hospital (KUTRRH) are leading teaching hospitals affiliated with medical universities.

33. Is there a dedicated children’s hospital in Nairobi?

Yes. Gertrude’s Garden Children’s Hospital is the oldest and largest paediatric hospital in East Africa.

34. Which hospital in Nairobi provides advanced dental care?

Molars Dental Practice and Aga Khan Dental Centre offer advanced dentistry including cosmetic, orthodontic, and implant treatments.

35. What language do doctors in Nairobi speak?

Most doctors and nurses in Nairobi speak English and Swahili fluently, and many specialists are trained abroad.

36. Do hospitals in Nairobi offer COVID-19 testing and treatment?

Yes. All major hospitals, including Aga Khan, Nairobi Hospital, and MP Shah, provide COVID-19 PCR testing, vaccination, and treatment services.

37. Can foreigners get medical care in public hospitals?

Yes, foreigners are allowed treatment in public hospitals like KNH, but private hospitals are preferred for faster service and comfort.

38. Which hospital in Nairobi offers the best maternity suites?

Karen Hospital, Aga Khan, and Mater Hospital offer premium maternity suites with comfortable rooms and family-friendly facilities.

39. Are Nairobi hospitals equipped for intensive care?

Yes. All major hospitals, including KNH, Aga Khan, MP Shah, and Nairobi Hospital, have well-equipped ICUs with ventilators and critical-care specialists.

40. Which hospital offers cancer screening programs in Nairobi?

HCG CCK Cancer Centre, Aga Khan University Hospital, and Kenyatta National Hospital conduct comprehensive cancer screening and awareness programs.

41. How can I verify a hospital’s accreditation in Kenya?

You can check with the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) website or contact the hospital directly for accreditation details.

42. Are Nairobi hospitals connected to international health networks?

Yes. Hospitals like Aga Khan University Hospital are part of global health systems, offering international collaborations and telemedicine partnerships.

43. What are the visiting hours in Nairobi hospitals?

Visiting hours usually run from 11:00 AM–1:00 PM and 4:00 PM–6:00 PM, but they vary depending on the hospital and ward type.

44. Are Nairobi hospitals equipped with MRI and CT scan facilities?

Yes. Top hospitals such as Aga Khan, Nairobi Hospital, and KUTRRH have advanced imaging centres with MRI, CT, and PET scan capabilities.

45. Which hospital in Nairobi provides mental health services?

Chiromo Hospital Group, KNH Psychiatry Department, and Aga Khan University Hospital offer mental health and counselling services.

46. What is the best paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) in Nairobi?

Gertrude’s Garden Children’s Hospital and Aga Khan University Hospital have top-rated PICUs with neonatal and paediatric specialists.

47. Which hospital in Nairobi is best for ENT (ear, nose, throat) treatment?

Nairobi ENT Hospital, Aga Khan, and MP Shah Hospital have ENT specialists offering sinus, hearing, and throat surgeries.

48. What are the emergency numbers for hospitals in Nairobi?

Most hospitals have their own emergency lines. The national emergency number is 999 or 112, and hospitals like Aga Khan and Nairobi Hospital have dedicated 24/7 hotlines.

49. Do hospitals in Nairobi provide vaccination services?

Yes. All major hospitals and clinics offer immunisation for children, travel vaccines, and routine adult vaccinations.

50. How do I choose the right hospital in Nairobi for my needs?

Consider your medical condition, insurance coverage, budget, doctor specialisation, and hospital location. Aga Khan and Nairobi Hospital are ideal for advanced care, while KNH is suitable for affordable treatment.

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