Shop, zipline, dance, eat, read a book, stroll by the lake, all in one place -The Hub Karen.
If Nairobi had a spot where you could plan an entire Saturday without once wondering what’s next, this would be it. The Hub Karen is not your average mall. It’s part shopping centre, outdoor adventure park, and social hub. The architecture leans open and airy, with wide walkways, a central courtyard, and water features that make it feel more like a town square than a mall. It has a man-made lake, which is easily one of its most photogenic features. The Hub is the kind of place where you might come to run a quick errand but end up staying the entire day because there is always something else pulling you in.
The Hub
The Hub stands out in how much it packs into one place. With over 80 shops, boutiques, and restaurants, you can explore fashion stores, lifestyle outlets, electronics, books, and décor, and still not feel done. And yet, somehow, you won’t feel fatigued.. The design invites you to stroll at your own pace, ducking into stores or just people-watching from a bench by the lake.
Carrefour, the international supermarket giant, opened its first Kenyan branch here, making The Hub a pioneer in the local retail scene. Around it, local vendors and small pop-ups keep things fresh, selling customised products like handmade jewellery, bags, natural skincare products, and quirky décor pieces, among others. This mix of big brands and local craft keeps you curious and always coming back for more.
Outdoor Adventures
By the lake, there is JUMP by Flying Fox, an aerial adventure park that is pure adrenaline. Picture this: you are strapped in, lifted onto a platform, and then fly across a 140-metre racing zipline that skims over the water. Or, if you are feeling extra bold, you take the longer 180-metre line, wind rushing past your face, with the lake below you..
And that is just the beginning. There is a giant swing that will make even the bravest scream, a 10-metre airbag jump that lets you leap off a platform with all the drama of an action movie, and the famous “Leap of Faith” drop tower challenge. It’s thrilling, hilarious, and definitely a unique experience offered within Nairobi City. Prices start from approximately Kes. 1,600 ($13) per ride, with bundles if you want to try two or three.
Families Activities
If outdoor adventure is not your cup of tea or if you have little ones, The Hub Park is a safe indoor haven. This is East Africa’s largest indoor play arena, with trampolines, climbing zones, soft play for the smaller kids and curated birthday packages. It is one of the rare places where children can burn energy and parents can grab a coffee in peace.
The Glowy Evenings
By late afternoon, the Hub transforms. The sun dips, the lights flicker on and the whole place oozes a unique glow. The garden, the lake, the walkways, everything turns picture-worthy. It becomes perfect for dinner, drinks, solo dates or an evening stroll through the grounds with friends or family. If you prefer a place that is both relaxing and lively, this is it.
What you should Know
- Operating Hours: Monday–Thursday 6:30 a.m.–11:00 p.m., Friday–Sunday 6:30 a.m.–midnight.
- Parking: Over 1,200 bays available, with clear access points (expect to pay around KSh 200 ($1.6).
- Payments: Most shops accept cards and M-Pesa, though it’s always smart to carry some cash for smaller vendors.
- Safety: Sarit might have the reputation, but Karen has the calm. Security here is tight, and the neighbourhood vibe makes it feel extra comfortable.
Why The Hub is a Must Visit
What makes The Hub Karen unique is the balance it strikes. You can spend your morning shopping and running errands, your afternoon flying across the lake on a zipline and your evening sipping wine or journaling in one of the restaurants. So if you are wondering where to spend your next weekend, let The Hub Karen decide for you. Chances are, once you step in, half the day will be gone before you even notice and you will already be planning your next visit.
Discover hidden gems and must-visit places in Nairobi. Visit VisitNairobiKenya.com for updates and more spots like The Hub Karen.