Karen Country Club, founded in 1937, is one of Kenya’s oldest and most prestigious golf clubs, steeped in history and tradition. Located in the serene Karen area of Nairobi, a large portion of the club’s renowned 18-hole golf course is situated on land that was once part of the coffee estate developed by the Danish author and pioneer, Karen Blixen. With a membership base of over 4,000, of which 800 are dedicated golfers, the club is a melting pot of nationalities, fostering a community that promotes inclusivity and shared values.
Karen Country Club Amenities
Karen Country Club is more than just a golf club; it offers a wide range of amenities designed to cater to various age groups and interests. Members and their families enjoy a top-tier lifestyle, with access to:
- Award-winning Championship Golf Course: An 18-hole course that has won numerous accolades, complete with a driving range and practice facilities.
- Bowling Green: A space for friendly competitions and socializing.
- Casual and Formal Dining Outlets: A variety of culinary experiences that cater to different tastes.
- Meeting and Conference Rooms: Ideal for professional or business gatherings.
- Squash and Tennis Courts: For sports enthusiasts who enjoy these fast-paced, competitive activities.
- State-of-the-art Fitness Centre: Designed to help members maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.
- Swimming Pool: Perfect for family leisure and relaxation.
- Event Grounds: Unique areas like the Wetlands and The Mulwa Dam are ideal for hosting special occasions such as weddings or corporate events.
- Wellness Spa: A tranquil retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Karen Country Club Membership Entry Fees
Karen Country Club offers various membership categories, each with specific entry fees depending on the applicant’s status—be it a full member, junior member, expatriate, or a joining spouse. Here’s a breakdown of the membership fees:
Full Membership
- Deposit: Kshs 20,000
- Club Entry Fee (Single): Kshs 650,000
- Club Entry Fee (Couple): Kshs 1,150,000
- Golf Entry Fee (Single): Kshs 150,000
- Golf Entry Fee (Couple): Kshs 300,000
Junior Membership (Aged 18-25)
- Deposit: Kshs 6,000
- Club Entry Fee (Single): Kshs 100,000
- Club Entry Fee (Couple): Kshs 200,000
- Golf Entry Fee (Single): Kshs 75,000
- Golf Entry Fee (Couple): Kshs 150,000
Expatriate Membership
- Club Entry Fee (Single): Kshs 500,000
- Club Entry Fee (Couple): Kshs 850,000
- Golf Entry Fee (Single): Kshs 150,000
- Golf Entry Fee (Couple): Kshs 300,000
Joining Spouse
- Club Entry Fee: Kshs 600,000
Karen Country Club Joining Procedure
Becoming a member of Karen Country Club is a process that requires candidates to be proposed by two existing members—a Proposer and a Seconder. Both of these sponsors must have been members for at least two years and be in good standing with the club. Here’s how the membership process works:
- Submission of Proposal: The candidate must submit a letter of introduction and their CV to the membership office or the General Manager’s office. A proposal form is then completed by the Proposer, Seconder, and the Candidate. This is accompanied by passport-sized photographs.
- Balloting Committee Review: The proposal is reviewed by the balloting committee, and the Proposer is informed of the outcome by the Membership Administrator or General Manager.
- Formal Dress Code for Balloting: Candidates and Proposers are required to dress formally during balloting sessions. For men, this includes a jacket and tie, while women should wear formal attire, akin to that worn in conservative job interviews.
Important Notes on Membership
- Children under 18 years: These are covered by their parents’ subscription and entry fees, excluding golf-related activities.
- Young Golfers: Children aged 12 to 18 who wish to participate in golf must either join as Young Golfers or pay green fees.
- Golf Fees: These fees are payable upon application to the Golf section.
- Conversion of Junior to Full Membership: A Junior Member converting to Full Membership will need to increase their deposit to match that of a Full Member.
- Country Members: Those transferring to Full Membership must pay the difference between the entrance fees applicable to Country and Full Members at the time of transfer.
Karen Country Club Contacts
For further inquiries or to begin the membership application process, you can reach out to the Karen Country Club at:
- Location: Karen Road, Nairobi
- Phone Numbers: (+254) 733 606950, (+254) 709 535 000
- Email Address: info@karen.or.ke
Becoming a member of Karen Country Club provides not only access to exceptional facilities but also the opportunity to be part of a vibrant and diverse community. Whether you’re an avid golfer, a fitness enthusiast, or someone who enjoys socializing in a family-oriented environment, Karen Country Club offers a rich and rewarding experience for its members.
