Karen Blixen Museum (Kenya)

The Karen Blixen Museum in Kenya is a stunning destination that invites visitors to delve into the fascinating history of the Danish author Karen Blixen. Located just 10 km outside of Nairobi at the foot of the Ngong Hills, the museum is the former home of Blixen, who is famous for her book “Out of Africa” which chronicles life at the estate.Originally built in 1912 by the Swedish engineer Åke Sjögren, the bungalow-style house and its attached property were purchased in 1917 by Karen Blixen and her husband, Baron Bror von Blixen-Finecke, with the intention of operating a coffee plantation. Even after their separation in 1921, Karen Blixen continued to live at the house and run the plantation until she returned to Denmark in 1931.Her life here is chronicled in her most famous book, “Out of Africa,” which paints a vivid picture of the beauty and challenges of life in Kenya during that time. The museum also showcases her book “Shadows on the Grass,” which provides further insights into the author’s life on the estate.In 1964, after Karen Blixen’s death, the Danish government donated the house to the new Kenyan government as an independence gift. It was then opened to the public in 1986 as one of Kenya’s national museums, following the popularity of the 1985 movie “Out of Africa.”Today, the museum is situated in the upscale Nairobi suburb named “Karen,” which was created by the land re-parceling of the coffee farm after Blixen’s return to Denmark. The museum is open every day between 09:30 and 18:00, including on weekends and public holidays. Visitors have the opportunity to take part in continuously offered guided tours of the house, which features rooms designed in both the original decor and with props from the 1985 film.The grounds of the museum, which feature original equipment from the coffee farm, are also available for touring. The museum even has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs to commemorate their visit.Overall, the Karen Blixen Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the fascinating history and culture of Kenya. With its beautiful setting, informative exhibits, and unique insights into the life of one of Kenya’s most famous residents, it is a truly memorable experience that should not be missed.