Giraffe Manor Kenya: Everything You Need to Know About This Iconic Safari Experience
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Discover Giraffe Manor Kenya – an exclusive boutique hotel where guests dine with endangered Rothschild’s giraffes. Learn about the location, prices, booking tips, activities, and everything you need to know before your visit.
Introduction: What Is Giraffe Manor Kenya?
Tucked away in the leafy suburbs of Nairobi, Giraffe Manor Kenya stands as one of the most unique and Instagram-famous hotels in the world. This historic, ivy-clad mansion offers a rare opportunity for guests to interact closely with endangered Rothschild’s giraffes. Whether you’re sipping morning coffee or enjoying an elegant afternoon tea, the long-necked residents often poke their heads through the windows to join in.
Location and Setting
Giraffe Manor lies within the Lang’ata suburb of Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling capital. Although the city buzzes with life, this boutique hotel sits peacefully on a 140-acre sanctuary shared with the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW). The lush gardens, shaded terraces, and colonial architecture evoke timeless charm.
Moreover, its proximity to Nairobi’s main attractions such as the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and the Karen Blixen Museum makes it an ideal stop either before or after a safari.
A Brief History of Giraffe Manor Kenya
Constructed in 1932, the manor originally served as
a private home. However, it gained global recognition in the 1970s when Jock and Betty Leslie-Melville adopted and began breeding Rothschild’s giraffes on the estate. Their conservation work continues to influence the manor’s operations today.
In 2009, The Safari Collection took over the management and transformed the property into the elegant, giraffe-friendly boutique hotel that travelers flock to today.
Why Visit Giraffe Manor?
Most travelers visit Giraffe Manor for one unforgettable reason—breakfast with giraffes. Each morning, the hotel’s long-legged residents stroll over from the sanctuary and gently nudge their heads through the large windows, hoping for a treat of giraffe pellets.
However, the experience extends beyond breakfast. Guests can also:
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Feed and photograph giraffes throughout the day
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Visit the Giraffe Centre next door to learn more about conservation
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Enjoy gourmet meals and elegant afternoon teas
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Relax in beautifully styled rooms with vintage furnishings
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Explore nearby Nairobi attractions with ease
Accommodation and Facilities
Giraffe Manor offers 12 individually designed rooms, each named after giraffes that have resided there. The rooms blend classic colonial design with modern comfort, featuring four-poster beds, antique furniture, and luxurious bathrooms.
Some of the most popular rooms include:
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Daisy’s Room – named after one of the original giraffes
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Betty’s Room – with a large window for up-close giraffe interaction
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Karen Blixen Suite – perfect for families or honeymooners
Besides the elegant rooms, the manor provides:
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Complimentary laundry services
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Airport transfers
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On-site spa (shared with the Retreat next door)
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Gourmet dining featuring locally sourced ingredients
How Much Does It Cost to Stay at Giraffe Manor?
Prices vary based on the season, room category, and package. On average:
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Low season (April, May, November): Around $875–$1,150 per person per night
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High season (June–October, December): From $1,200–$1,650 per person per night
The rates include all meals, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, airport transfers, giraffe interactions, and some excursions.
How to Book Giraffe Manor Kenya
Booking Giraffe Manor can be tricky due to its popularity. Most guests include a night or two here as part of a larger Kenyan safari itinerary, typically organized by luxury tour operators like The Safari Collection or bespoke companies such as Umarella Voyage Safaris Uganda.
To secure a spot:
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Book early – at least 12 months ahead
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Combine it with a safari package for priority booking
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Use an expert travel planner for added flexibility and local insight
Frequently Asked Questions About Giraffe Manor Kenya
1. How many nights should I stay?
One or two nights is usually enough to enjoy the giraffe experience before heading on safari.
2. Can you visit Giraffe Manor for a day or lunch?
No. Only overnight guests can access the manor. However, you can visit the Giraffe Centre next door.
3. Is Giraffe Manor family-friendly?
Absolutely. Children love the giraffe encounters, and the Karen Blixen Suite accommodates families comfortably.
4. Do giraffes roam freely at night?
The giraffes return to the sanctuary each evening, so interactions happen during the day.
5. Is Giraffe Manor worth the price?
Yes, for many travelers, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience combining luxury, wildlife, and conservation.
Activities while at Giraffe Manor Kenya
First, you can enjoy feeding the Rothschild’s giraffes on the manor’s patio. Meanwhile, you’ll sip a cup of tea or coffee while the giraffes stick their long necks through the windows to grab a snack. This interactive experience is a highlight for many guests.
Next, take a guided nature walk through the beautiful gardens and surrounding forest. During the walk, you’ll learn about the local flora and fauna, and spot birds, monkeys, and other wildlife. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the 12-acre forest, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, monkeys, and birds.
Giraffe Manor offers a traditional English-style afternoon tea on the patio,
Complete with finger sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats. As you enjoy your tea, the giraffes will likely join you, sticking their heads through the windows to grab a snack.
After a busy day, unwind in the manor’s luxurious rooms or take a dip in the swimming pool. You can also enjoy a book in the library or take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside, particularly during sunset.
Final Thoughts
Giraffe Manor Kenya offers more than luxury. It offers meaningful interaction with one of Africa’s most endangered animals. With its rich history, conservation-driven mission, and unmatched setting, it remains one of the most magical stays you can experience in Africa. Whether you’re beginning your Kenyan safari or ending on a high note, Giraffe Manor will leave an indelible mark on your heart—and your travel album.
