Investors turn shipping containers into Airbnbs

With a bold vision, Mr Mumbo bought a quarter-acre plot of land in Machakos County and transformed repurposed shipping containers into his first Airbnb unit.

"The venture was a game changer," he says. Unlike traditional guesthouses, which require significant capital and months of construction, Mr Mumbo's first units were completed in just one month at a cost of Sh1.2 million each, including furnishing.

"In business, you have to be different. That's why I chose container Airbnbs - they're unusual, attract curiosity and make financial sense," he explains.

His strategy paid off. We started Kozi Gardens Airbnb as a single unit which has quickly grown into a six-unit Airbnb business, with each unit priced at Sh1,500 per night.

Despite being new to the hospitality industry, Mr Mumbo now hosts at least three guests a week, attracted by the unique experience and affordability of container living.

In addition to the cost savings, container homes are built from 

Corten steel, which makes them highly durable and resistant to extreme weather conditions.

"People think containers get too hot, but with the right insulation, they're just as comfortable - if not more so - than traditional houses," says the 34-year-old.

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To enhance the guest experience, he invested in stylish interiors with epoxy flooring for durability and an outdoor kitchen for an immersive stay. Social media, particularly TikTok and Instagram, has been key drivers of his success.

"Social media has been a game-changing factor. The uniqueness of my space generates organic interest, which has kept my business thriving," he says.

With demand growing, Mr Mumbo is now planning to expand further by adding more units and introducing a rooftop lounge - an emerging concept in Kenya's hospitality sector.

In Kenya, Airbnbs have become a popular alternative source of income, particularly in cities such as Nairobi and Coast.

Airbnb, an American multinational operates the online marketplace for short-term homestays and serviced accommodation, also called vacation rentals, where listed homeowners earn from.

In Nanyuki, Sylvia Nyokabi, a human resources professional, saw an opportunity in the town's booming tourism industry.

Owning land with stunning views of Mt Kenya, her initial idea was to develop luxury cottages. However, the hilly terrain and rapidly rising construction costs made traditional building methods impractical.

Determined to find a solution, Ms Nyokabi contacted Containers Kenya, a company specialising in custom-built container homes.

At the age of 40, she took a leap of faith into alternative real estate, and the results were extraordinary. Her first two-bedroom container cottage was completed in just one month, eliminating the delays and inefficiencies often associated with conventional construction.

"Compared to bricks and mortar, this was a hassle-free process. No dealing with unreliable contractors, no endless delays," she notes.

Since its launch, her high-end retreat - priced at Sh5,000 per night - has hosted 15 guests, many of whom return for the peaceful getaway.

"The cottages strike a balance between affordability and luxury, offering modern interiors, outdoor seating and access to scenic hiking trails," she says. Encouraged by her success, Ms Nyokabi is expanding her investment to include two more cottages and a communal dining area.

Kenya's container home industry is experiencing unprecedented growth. Bella Wanga, a sales representative for the company, confirms that demand has skyrocketed.

"We have completed over 25 container Airbnb projects in prime locations such as Ngong, Syokimau and Makutano in just one year," she says.

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For investors, container houses offer fast turnaround times and high returns. Most containers come from the port of Mombasa and undergo an extensive transformation process that includes cleaning, cutting, welding and insulation with materials such as rock wool, styrofoam or gypsum.

"Temperature control is a major concern for many first-time buyers, but with proper insulation, these homes are just as comfortable as traditional ones," Ms Wanga explains.

Exterior finishes vary, with some opting for rustic timber cladding, while others prefer cement slabs or tiling. Construction times are another major attraction. A 20-foot container home can be completed in 14 days, while a larger 40-foot unit takes around 30 days - a fraction of the time required for conventional homes.

"This significantly reduces costs and eliminates the stress of dealing with unreliable contractors," she adds.

But container homes aren't just for Airbnb rentals; they're increasingly being used for businesses, clinics, agricultural warehouses and even shelters for survivors of gender-based violence.

Multinational companies and police stations have also adopted container structures, recognising their durability and cost-effectiveness.

With land prices soaring, container homes are proving to be more than just a trend - they are reshaping Kenya's real estate landscape.

Entrepreneurs like Mr Mumbo and Ms Nyokabi are proving that alternative housing isn't just about affordability; it's also about efficiency, innovation and adaptability.

With demand for unique and experiential stays on the rise, container homes are opening up new opportunities in hospitality and property investment.

"Kenya's property market is evolving, and those who embrace innovation are leading the way. The future isn't just being built with bricks and mortar; it's being redefined, one container at a time," says Ms Wanga.

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