
Apart from his growing influence in politics over the past few years, former Deputy Rigathi Gachagua is also an established businessman in Kenya.
From owning five-star hotels to investments in real estate and other business ventures, Gachagua, together with his family, has ventured into various sectors across the country.
One of the businesses owned by Gachagua is an iconic five-star hotel in Nyeri County that is frequently visited by tourists in the Mt. Kenya region.
In this segment, Times Digital Kenya explores the luxurious hotel that Gachagua and his sons run and its long history.
Gachagua Family Five-Star Hotel in Nyeri County
Among the Gachagua family’s hospitality portfolio is the iconic Outspan Hotel in Nyeri County. The hotel remains one of Nyeri’s most prestigious destinations, blending the traditional with a modern look and experience.
Built in 1926 by Eric Sherbrooke Walker, the Outspan Hotel has been in existence for 100 years now. Although it has been there for so long, the Gachagua family actually acquired it in 2023 at KSh 535 million.

The Outspan is run by Gachagua’s son, where Keith Ikinu Gachagua is the director, and while in this position, he has helped in the hotel’s recent revitalization.
Features and Services
The iconic hotel stands out among similar establishments in Nyeri with its unique colonial-style architectural features.
In addition, the hotel offers clear views of the peaks of Mount Kenya as well as the surrounding ancient trees.
As for accommodation, the Outspan has 45 uniquely designed rooms. Most of the rooms feature wooden floors, cozy fireplaces, and balconies with direct garden access.
The facility also caters to leisure and business needs, as it features a swimming pool, billiards room, and tennis courts. It also has modern conference facilities, making it a premier corporate retreat for visitors.

For those who wish to spend a night at the Outspan Hotel, rates start at approximately KSh 12,900 per night for residents.









