Karen Blixen Museum
Nairobi Region
The Karen Blixen Museum, located about 10 kilometers outside Nairobi at the foot of the Ngong Hills, is the preserved former home of Danish author Karen Blixen, famed for her memoir "Out of Africa." Built in 1912 by Swedish engineer Åke Sjögren, the bungalow-style house became the center of a coffee plantation purchased by Karen and her husband Baron Bror von Blixen-Finecke in 1917. After their separation in 1921, Karen managed the plantation alone until 1931 when she returned to Denmark. The museum offers visitors a glimpse into colonial Kenya life and Blixen's personal story, enriched by its serene natural surroundings and a nature trail. The house was donated by Denmark to Kenya as an independence gift and opened to the public in 1986 following the international success of the film adaptation of "Out of Africa." Today, the museum stands within the upscale Nairobi suburb of Karen, which developed from Blixen's former farm land.
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Tip: Visit during the dry seasons for pleasant weather and clearer views of the Ngong Hills. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holidays, to avoid long queues. The museum offers guided tours that enrich the experience with detailed stories about Karen Blixen's life and the colonial history of Kenya. Discounts may be available for students and groups. Allow time to enjoy the nature trail behind the museum for a reflective walk.
Interesting facts
- •The museum was not the filming location for the movie "Out of Africa"; instead, the film used Blixen's earlier farmhouse, Mbagathi.
- •The suburb of Karen in Nairobi is named after Karen Blixen and developed from her former coffee farm.
- •Karen Blixen wrote under the pen name Isak Dinesen and is renowned for her literary contributions depicting colonial Kenya life.
History
The house that is now the Karen Blixen Museum was built in 1912 by Swedish engineer Åke Sjögren.
Karen Blixen and her husband bought it in 1917 to run a coffee plantation in British East Africa.
After their separation in 1921, Karen remained at the estate until 1931.
Following her death in 1962, the Danish government gifted the house to Kenya as a symbol of independence.
It was opened as a museum in 1986, spurred by the popularity of the 1985 film "Out of Africa." The surrounding suburb of Karen was developed from the original farm land after Blixen's departure.
Place Guide
Main House1912
The bungalow-style house built in 1912, showcasing the living quarters and original furnishings from Karen Blixen's time, reflecting colonial architecture and lifestyle.
Nature Trail
A serene walking path behind the museum offering views of the Ngong Hills and opportunities for reflection amidst native flora.
Contact
Phone: 020 8002139
